OROVILLE — After five hours of rigorous courtroom drama, Chico High School edged out Las Plumas High School to win the 2025 Butte County Mock Trial on Tuesday at the Butte County Superior Courthouse. The victory marks a milestone for Chico High, which will represent the county for the first time at the California Mock Trial in Los Angeles on March 14-16.

The competition, presided over by Commissioner Leah Sears and Judge Jesus A. Rodriguez, saw both teams skillfully argue the fictitious case of People v. Gold. The case centered on Logan Gold, accused of kidnapping Taylor Alexander, a rival candidate to his spouse in a city council election. Students debated a key constitutional issue during the pretrial hearing—a defense motion to exclude a potentially incriminating statement that allegedly violated Gold’s Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination.

Chico High’s meticulous preparation and courtroom performance earned high praise from judges and attorney scorers alike. “It was obvious that all of you were well prepared to present this case, and we are really proud of you,” said Jessica Miller, a Butte County prosecutor who served as an attorney scorer.

Judge Rodriguez commended the students for their poise and preparation.

“I would have had a hard time doing what you all have done today because I avoided public speaking back then like the plague,” he said. “You all did awesome, and it was obvious you knew this case inside and out.”

A Historic Win

Chico High’s victory was especially sweet given the dominance of Las Plumas High in previous years.

“Las Plumas has been dominating for years, and Chico High worked really hard under the mentorship of their teacher and the volunteer attorneys to be prepared for a good trial,” said Mary Ellen Garrahy, BCOE‘s Student Events Manager and Mock Trial Coordinator.

Students Reflect on Their Experience

For the students, the Butte County Mock Trial was more than just an academic exercise.

“Mock Trial gave me an opportunity to debate, public speak, and learn more about our nation’s justice system,” said Chico High’s Annalisa Pedrinazzi, one of the competition’s high-scoring attorneys. “But most importantly, it taught me to look at both sides of the story and give everyone a fair and equal chance to prove themselves.”

Her teammate, Amaya Grothe, echoed the sentiment.

“Mock Trial was such a fun opportunity to meet new people and gain knowledge about the world of justice and law.”

Recognizing Excellence

The competition also spotlighted standout participants from both teams. Chico High’s Nathaniel Ison and Adeline Ison were named MVPs, alongside Las Plumas’ Aiden Hennig and Ayvin Hamrell. High-scoring attorneys included Chico High’s Alicia Hunt and Annalisa Pedrinazzi, as well as Las Plumas’ Ayvin Hamrell. Top witnesses included Adeline Ison (CHS), Gwendolyn Vickery (LPHS), and Hadleigh McKillop (LPHS).

The Path Ahead

Chico High’s Mock Trial team, coached by Casey Van Attenhoven and supported by volunteer attorneys like Nicole Diamond and Kathy Richards, will now prepare for the state competition in Los Angeles. The team’s success is a testament to the dedication of students, teachers, and local attorneys who volunteer their time to mentor the participants.

“I have been involved in Moot Court and Mock Trial competitions for almost 20 years, particularly at the university level,” said attorney scorer Matthew Bentley. “It is nice to see young people stepping up because if you continue this, it gets more advanced. This is a great way to start.”

Chico High’s journey to Los Angeles promises to inspire and elevate the already impressive legacy of Butte County’s Mock Trial program.