About the District Attorney

Professional Background of District Attorney Matthew R. Beauchamp

In 1984 I received my Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Francisco. In 1981 I graduated with honors from California State University, Chico with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science.

I have been an attorney for 38 years. I have tried serious felony criminal cases in both state and federal court. I have also taught evidence, use of force, crime scene investigation and police officer professionalism and ethics at Yuba College. 

 In 2011, I was hired by my predecessor John Poyner as his Chief Deputy District Attorney. My responsibilities included felony trial work and personally handling all civil asset forfeiture cases. Between 2011, and the present, I successfully forfeited over $550,000 from drug traffickers. Those assets were distributed to law enforcement to aid in protection of the public.

I have taken a strong stand against poaching, market hunting and other forms of illegal and unethical hunting. In 2015, I was recognized by the Department of Fish and Wildlife as the California Wildlife Prosecutor of the Year.

In 2016, I was appointed Colusa County District Attorney by the Board of Supervisors. In 2018, I was elected District Attorney and served a full four year term. In 2024, I was again appointed to the office of District Attorney by the Board of Supervisors. During my time as District Attorney my office has successfully prosecuted a multitude of serious cases, including, murders, felony sex crimes, and gang crimes.

Matthew R. Beauchamp
District Attorney