A former Hayward police officer facing felony charges for allegedly accepting bribes and sexual favors may see his legal troubles vanish if he successfully completes a court-ordered mental health program. Benjamin Yarbrough, 49, was granted admission into a diversion program by Alameda County Superior Court Judge Elisa Della-Piana on Tuesday. If Yarbrough adheres to monitored treatment and stays out of trouble for the next two years, the judge indicated that his case could be entirely dismissed.
The accusations against Yarbrough paint a picture of corruption and extortion involving a local brothel. Authorities allege that in April 2025, Yarbrough accepted a thousand dollars in cash delivered in a red envelope along with free sexual services from a woman suspected of running the illegal operation. Investigators say the payments were made under the implied threat of arrest or as a way to secure protection and intelligence regarding law enforcement activities. Text messages recovered during the investigation reportedly show Yarbrough promising the woman that he would protect rather than bust her business while inquiring about which workers were available for sex.
While the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office argued that bribery charges should not qualify someone for mental health diversion, Judge Della-Piana expressed confidence that Yarbrough met the necessary criteria. Although specific diagnoses were not disclosed in open court, the judge has mandated that Yarbrough continue weekly therapy and participate in two group sessions per week. He has also agreed to provide monthly progress reports and written reflections on his treatment every six months to demonstrate his growth.
As a gesture of good faith, Yarbrough’s attorney noted that he has already permanently surrendered his state peace officer certification, ensuring he will never work as a policeman in California again. His lawyer described these steps as part of a tremendous effort by Yarbrough to address the issues that led to his criminal conduct. This ruling stood in stark contrast to another hearing held moments earlier, where the judge denied similar diversion requests for a San Mateo County deputy accused of abusing his child.
