Sausalito City Manager Elaine Forbes has agreed to undergo a psychiatric evaluation in connection with misdemeanor charges stemming from an alleged early-morning incident at the Sausalito marina. Forbes, 53, appeared in court Wednesday and consented to the evaluation at Marin General Hospital, though she did not enter a plea.
Her attorney, Randy Knox, requested that Forbes' initial $50,000 bail be reduced and that she be released on her own recognizance to attend the evaluation, stating, "She's trying to get the help she needs." Forbes appeared in court wearing an orange and white striped jumpsuit.
Authorities claim Forbes boarded multiple vessels at the marina early Saturday. One boat owner reported that she allegedly ransacked some of the boats, consuming food and scattering empty alcohol bottles. Another allegation is that she may have been attempting to steal a 66-foot yacht.
![The yacht "Lisa Marie" docked at the Sausalito Yacht Harbor.]( "The yacht "Lisa Marie" docked at the Sausalito Yacht Harbor.")
Forbes' family representatives have stated that she has been experiencing a significant mental health crisis, which they believe led to the alleged behavior. Her attorney indicated that Forbes plans to plead not guilty pending the results of the psychiatric evaluation and a review of the evidence. "It's clear it's not a burglary," Knox said, adding, "She's not a danger to society."
Forbes had been in her role as Sausalito city manager for just three weeks prior to the incident. Before this appointment, she served for nine years as the executive director of the Port of San Francisco, departing abruptly in September, citing a desire for change and fatigue from leading a large city port.