A Nigerian Doctor Ordered To Pay Nearly $1 Million After Cutting Down Protected Trees In California

A California city has ordered a Nigerian doctor and his partner to pay nearly $1 million after dozens of protected trees were allegedly cut down around their property without approval.
According to officials in Oakland, Dr. Matthew Bernard and his partner, Lynn Warner violated local environmental preservation laws after multiple inspections and complaints from nearby residents.
During a public hearing, Bernard reportedly defended the action, saying the trees were “dead, dying, leaning,” or dangerous based on professional advice. However, city officials rejected their request to postpone replanting until future construction work is completed.
Authorities imposed a penalty of more than $915,000 and also placed a lien on the property, meaning it cannot be sold or developed until the fine is fully paid.
Officials say the tough punishment reflects the environmental damage caused by removing mature trees that helped protect the community’s ecosystem and landscape.
What do you think about this decision by the city authorities?