Wayward Mountain Lion; Uber Driver Kidnapping Spree: CA Stories

CALIFORNIA – It was another busy news week across California. Missed the headlines on Patch? Whether you're looking for breaking or bizarre news, or sweet or silly features, we've rounded up some of the most share-worthy stories from the past week.

Take a look back at the top 12 news stories across the state over the past week. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

1. Here's How Many Registered Voters Cast Ballots In California

Voter data analyzed by the group FairVote showed some states see a much higher turnout than others. See California's numbers.

2. 110 Sex Offenders Arrested In Statewide Halloween Sweep

A total of 1,252 registered sex offenders were contacted around the state as part of the annual Halloween crackdown called "Operation Boo."

3. Flu Shot Recommended Now By California Health Officials

The most important advice health officials provide to guard against the flu is "wash your hands."

4. Medical Exemptions Increase After California Passes Vaccine Law

California no longer accepts personal belief exemptions when it comes to vaccines, but it still accepts medical exemptions.

5. Uber Driver Charged With Kidnapping Four Passengers

Multiple victims reported the suspect may be armed with a gun and threatened to kidnap them on Halloween night.

• Previous: Uber Driver Holds Passengers Hostage In Kidnapping Spree: Police

6. Google Walkout Symptom Of Need For Cultural Shift

The protest aimed at the Mountain View company may reflect a call for a departure from business as usual, per a S.J. human resources expert.

7. Conflicting Bullying Allegations Stir Up South Bay School

A Palos Verdes mom was shocked when she saw a grainy video of her 13-year-old son on T.V., painting him as the schoolyard bully.

8. Stopping To Buy Shoes Was Misstep For Suspected Car Thief

The man reportedly ran from cops through Coddingtown center, but then stopped to make footwear purchase at JCPenney, police said.

9. Pleasanton Dad Flies To UK To Molest Teen He Met Via Video Game

The man, who was in his late 30s at the time, met the 14-year-old girl, who lived in the United Kingdom, while playing Clash of Clans.

10. 'He's Smart, Feisty': Parents Speak Out About Son's Dwarfism

Dublin residents Dennis and Maria Bronnikov talk about achondroplasia – a form of dwarfism – which their son Matthew was born with.

11. California Couple Identified As Duo In Viral Yosemite Proposal Photo

A man captured a stranger's marriage proposal while at Taft Point. Then, he asked the Internet for help in finding the newly engaged couple.

12. Wayward Mountain Lion Captured In California Suburb

The big cat made national headlines after he was found hunkered down in the bushes of a commercial business park in Pleasanton.

FOR THE WEEKEND:

• Dia De Los Muertos Events; Holiday Boutiques: NorCal Weekend
• Big Adventure Fest; Dia De Los Muertos Events: SoCal Weekend

Photo courtesy California Department of Fish and Wildlife