Over $30K raised so far

By Allen D. Payton

With one month remaining in the battle for the bucks for the Antioch City Council District 3 race on the November ballot, as of Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Don Freitas has raised significantly more than his two opponents combined. The former mayor and councilman has raised $30,184.68 compared to $11,190.09 raised by second-time council candidate Antwon Webster and $10,209.83 by newcomer Addison Peterson.

Freitas’ Finances

During the reporting period, Freitas’ fundraising resulted in $22,172 plus, an additional $2,000 received since Sept. 21st using a required Form 497, for a total of $30,184.68 received during the campaign, including $1,012.68 in Nonmonetary Contributions.

Freitas’ largest contributions were $5,000 from SR Ventures LLC in Brentwood, owned by businessman and Antioch commercial property owner Sean McCauley, $2,500 each from Republic Services, Antioch’s garbage company, and GBN Partners, LLC of Danville, developers of the approved Promenade new home projects in the Sand Creek Area, $2,000 each from I.B.E.W. 302 Community Candidates PAC in Martinez and Michael Hurd of Antioch, listed as Principal, Commercial Real Estate Consulting, $1,100 from Linda Terranova of Antioch, listed as retired, $1,000 each from Melody Weintraub of Lafayette, listed as retired and Guy Bjerke of Concord, the City of Concord Director of Economic Development, a peculiar $900 contribution amount from County Assessor Gus Kramer of Martinez (who was obviously too cheap to make it a grand), $500 each from County Fair Board Member Richard Hobin of Antioch, attorney with Hobin & Hobin LLP also in Antioch, Arnold Linscheid of Danville, the CEO of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce, Earlene Lanter of Antioch, listed as retired and Martin Fernandez of Antioch, also retired. Freitas also received $250 from City Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock’s 2022 re-election campaign committee and $150 from the councilwoman.

Freitas spent $10,899.10 for the period for a total of $13,016.30 spent through Sept. 21st. His campaign’s largest expenditure was for $5,057.30 to The Tucker Group of Antioch for consulting, $1,500 to Carla Marymee of Antioch for website design, $900 to Political Data Intelligence of Long Beach for campaign software, $859 to Election Digest of Torrance for a Voter Guide slate mailer to Democrats and $549 to the City of Antioch for filing fees.

The former mayor and councilman had an Ending Cash Balance of $15,168.38, plus, the $2,000 received after the filing period for a total of $17,168.38 remaining to be spent on his campaign. See Freitas’ Form 460 0701-092124 and Form 497 092824.

Webster’s Wealth Works

In a distant second place in fundraising, Webster’s report shows he raised $7,779.09 during the period for a total of $12,690.09 for the campaign. Those amounts include loans from himself of $5,441.26 for the period and $8,792.26 total for the campaign.

His largest contributions were $2,500 from Quincy and Mitchell Hardin of Antioch, owners of Hi-Lite Janitorial, and the most unique contribution of the campaign, $465.83 from Nigerian American Public Affairs in Los Angeles.

Webster spent $5,352.27 during the period for a total of $8,752.07 for the campaign. His largest expenditures include $1,750 to The Wright Social Spot of Antioch for a comedy fundraising event, $1,250 to Precision Politics of Marina Del Rey, CA for literature, $758.65 to Vista Print of Waltham, MA for literature and $500.98 to Young’s Consulting LLC of Antioch for campaign consulting.

Webster had an Ending Cash Balance of $3,441.02 left to spend on his campaign. See Webster’s Form 460 0701-092124

Peterson’s Proceeds & Payments

Peterson’s finance reports show he’s received $5,765.32 during the period including another $1,500 in a nonmonetary contribution from his wife for campaign website design, for a total of $6,209.83 for the campaign. But his Form 460 shows he forgave $454.58 in loans from himself, reducing the total received for the period to a net $5,310.74. Also, the Calendar Year to Date column is missing the previous $1,500 nonmonetary contribution from his wife for campaign website design received in the previous reporting period ending on June 30th. So, the total amount received for the campaign should be $7,709.83, plus $2,500 after Sept. 21st for a total of $10,209.83 received for the campaign.

He was his campaign’s largest contributor with a total of $2,974.58 in contributions and loans for the period including the forgiven loan amount. Peterson received the $2,500 from Sander Straus of Lafayette, listed as retired, but according to InfluenceWatch.org, he is a “mathematician and financial investment consultant who is a major donor to Democratic Party candidates and…a major contributor to progressive-left immigration, social policy, and environmental organizations.”

Peterson spent $4,879.27 during the period of which $3,379.27 was in the form of cash payments for a total of $5,351.48 or $6,851.48 when including the additional $1,500 for website design. His largest expenditures were $813.27 to Signs on the Cheap in Austin, TX, $549 to the City of Antioch for filing fees and $541 to the Antioch Recreation Department for room rental for an event.

While most of the missing information in Peterson’s first Form 460 campaign finance report for the first six months of the year appeared on his latest report, his totals are off by $60. On Aug. 30th Peterson responded to questions about the report for the period of Jan. 1 through June 30, 2024, with, “I am reaching out to the Antioch City Clerk’s office to fix the issues with my 460 shortly.” However, as of Oct. 15th, he had not yet submitted an Amended 460 Report.

Peterson had an Ending Cash Balance of $858.35 for the period. Adding the $2,500 received after Sept. 21st, it left his campaign with $3,358.35 remaining to be spent. See Peterson’s Form 460 0701-092124 and Form 497 100124

Next Reports Due Oct. 24th

According to the California Secretary of State, the next reporting period ends on Oct. 19th and the candidates’ campaign committees must submit another Form 460 by Oct. 24th. All the campaign finance reports for mayor and city council candidates can be found on the City of Antioch Public Portal for Campaign Finance Disclosure.

The election is November 5th.

By Antioch Police Department

Shoutout to the eagle-eyed citizens who helped APD apprehend an organized retail theft crew on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024.

Three juvenile subjects, between the ages of 14 and 16, were arrested after stealing $5,000 worth of merchandise from Sephora in the Slatten Ranch Shopping Center on Lone Tree Way in Antioch. One of the individuals had an outstanding warrant for retail theft. Great work, community and APD!

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

My Promise to You

I love America.  I believe that if we do not change this course that we are on, we could very well lose her and all that we hold dear.  We have each been given a legacy, an inheritance, and aside from that gift of America, our most precious treasure is our children and grandchildren.  Our inheritance to our children should not be a concern for a monetary enrichment, but one for a gift called FREEDOM.  We are in a battle for that Freedom.   As a mother of four and a grandmother of five, they are worth fighting for.  So, I stand before you today.

This is our chance Fellow Americans to restore what has been taken from us. Come rise and join with me as a Stateswoman, not a politician.  I stand outside of the establishment, but I stand inside the very heart of all our issues and I will stand for you. My voice will be one of TRUTH and FREEDOM and I will strongly support closed borders, our police, veterans, farmers.

I will fight for traditional education and our personal, financial, national and border security.

I will vote for laws that protect our children from groomers, predators and biological males in girls’ sports. We will covet their precious minds and innocence.  Our taxpayer money belongs solely to us and not to any foreign countries.

My “Yes” will be “Yes” and my “No” will be an unwavering “No”. I pledge to Putting the People First.

God Bless America.

Katherine Piccinini

Congress District 10

UPDATE 2: City manager says it’s not a private event.

UPDATE 3: “The purpose for the…Award is to honor the hundreds of thousands of people across American that have volunteered hundreds, if not thousands of volunteer hours over their lifetime.”

By Allen D. Payton

The former President and Chief Executive Officer of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau, Daniel Sohn, is being recognized by President Joe Biden for a 2024 President’s Volunteer Service Award. A community celebration in Sohn’s honor will be hosted by Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe on Thursday, Oct. 17 beginning at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers at Antioch City Hall, 200 H Street.

Led by the AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light, this program allows Certifying Organizations to recognize their most exceptional volunteers.

Sohn was the staff leader for the Antioch Chamber from May 2022 until March of this year.

UPDATE 1: Asked why he’s being honored Sohn said, “While I did indeed serve as a paid CEO, my contributions went beyond work hours to support our local community. I dedicated time as a volunteer to many of our nonprofit chamber members, and I believe that’s what this award truly recognizes. Much of my volunteer work paralleled my efforts at the Chamber, as I’ve always believed that supporting local organizations is good for business. That’s why I advocated for the Chamber Board to create the Nonprofit Council – to encourage businesses to give back to the communities that support them. In fact, this is something I have done at each chamber where I’ve been privileged to serve.”

“I’m incredibly honored to receive this award, but think it is important to note that I’m also just one of many Americans being recognized with the award this year,” he continued. “The award encourages communities to host local celebrations to acknowledge the positive work happening across the country, and Antioch is just one of many places holding such an event.”

About the Award

In 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award to recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to take action, too.

The PVSA has continued under each administration, honoring the volunteers who are using their time and talents to solve some of the toughest challenges facing our nation.

Sohn’s Background

According to his LinkedIn profile, he is a former City Councilman for Haverhill, Florida, a Certified Tourism Ambassador, Certified Human Rights and DEI Consultant, Lobbyist and Civics Champion.

Sohn was also nominated by Gov. Newsom and appointed by Director of Selective Service in the name of President Joe Biden to represent California as a local board member of the Selective Service System from October 2021 to June 2024. Since July 2017 he has worked as the Managing Partner & Senior Lobbyist for the Floridian Group, LLC doing business as Pacific Partners.

UPDATE 2: Following concerns from the public about the use of the Council Chambers for a private event, questions were sent to City Manager Bessie Scott, City Attorney Thomas and the mayor asking if the room is rented out for other private events. Scott responded, “To the best of my knowledge this event is not a private event, thus anyone can attend.”

UPDATE 3: During the ceremony, the mayor shared more about the award saying, “The current program…was created by President George W. Bush in 2002. He made this program known during his State of the Union Address.

In January 2003, President Bush created an executive order that the created the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. The council was established to recognize the important contributions Americans of all ages are making within their communities through service and civic engagement.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a civil award bestowed by the President of the United States…to honor volunteers that give hundreds of hours per year helping. The award can be granted to individuals, families and organizations located throughout the United States. The purpose…is to honor the hundreds of thousands of people across American that have volunteered hundreds, if not thousands of volunteer hours over their lifetime.”

Sohn was presented with Certificates of Recognition from representatives of Assemblyman Tim Grayson and Contra Costa County District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis. He then thanked leaders of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and management staff of Tre Vista Senior Living in Antioch.

Sohn was then presented by Hernandez-Thorpe with the framed letter from President Biden and certificate showing he is a recipient of the Bronze Service Award for 100 to 249 hours of volunteer work.

By CHP Media Relations

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is launching Get Educated and Ride Safe VII (GEARS VII), a yearlong program that focuses on education and enforcement strategies to reduce motorcycle-related crashes and fatalities. The CHP received a $700,000 federal grant to fund the program.

 Provisional data from the federal fiscal year 2022-23 highlights the urgent need for such measures, with more than 7,000 motorcycle-involved crashes, resulting in 336 fatalities and more than 6,300 injuries within CHP jurisdiction.

“This grant will significantly enhance the CHP’s motorcycle safety and awareness programs by allowing us to continue educating both motorcyclists and drivers on safe practices,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “It’s a vital reminder that whether you’re driving a car or riding a motorcycle, everyone shares the responsibility for keeping our roads safe.”

 Throughout the grant period, CHP is ramping up motorcycle safety activities in regions with high crash rates and will participate in statewide and national traffic safety public awareness campaigns, including “National Motorcycle Ride Day” which was held on Saturday, October 12, 2024. These efforts will promote the use of U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmets and emphasize the importance of sharing the road with motorcyclists. Additionally, the CHP will increase enforcement in areas with motorcycle-involved crashes caused by speed, improper turns, and driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

New captain, lieutenant and officer join department, Fachner moves up to sergeant

“What an exciting time to join the Antioch Police Department. These new outstanding additions represent the department’s future, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to help shape our path forward.”- Interim Police Chief Brian Addington

By Allen D. Payton and Interim Antioch Police Chief Brian Addington

The Antioch Police Department added three more to the force and promoted one from within during an oath of office ceremony on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, led by Interim Chief Brian Addington, the sixth during his time in the position. He swore in Captain John Miller, the former police chief of Winters, CA, Lieutenant Joe Njoroge, a lateral from the Walnut Creek Police Department, new Officer Junior Pen and newly promoted Sergeant Dan Fachner.

The standing room only event held inside the Antioch Police Facility’s Community Room was attended by new City Manager Bessie Scott, City Attorney Thomas Loyd Smith, officers from the Antioch, Walnut Creek and Stockton Police Departments, as well as family and friends of the four men.

“It’s not an easy process to become an officer or get promoted,” Addington stated mentioning the application and oral board process. “If you make it high enough on the list you do a polygraph with an outside polygrapher, then a background of your entire life by an outside investigator. Then an interview with me, then a psychological exam, which is a battery of tests, followed by a psychologist approved by P.O.S.T. The final step is a physical examination by a medical doctor in compliance with POST guidelines to be an officer. All the candidates here, successfully completed all of that and surpassed the other applicants for the positions.”

“I am honored to welcome you to this special occasion, where we celebrate the swearing-in of new officers and promotion of dedicated members,” the Chief stated. “One comes from within our ranks here at Antioch, and two who served honorably with other agencies and are now joining us.”

“Today marks a significant milestone – not only for those standing before us but also for our police department as we continue to rebuild and renew our commitment to a higher standard of public service,” Addington continued.

“These officers have distinguished themselves through their hard work, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the community they serve,” the Chief said. “Their achievements reflect their readiness to take on greater responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to this department’s future. Each has answered the call to serve with integrity and professionalism, even in the face of significant challenges.”

“As we recognize their accomplishments today, we also reaffirm our collective mission to foster a culture of accountability and excellence,” he continued. “We will ensure that every action we take reflects the principles of fairness and constitutional policing. Together, we are committed to building a department the community can trust – one that is not only responsive to the present but also grounded in ideals that safeguard the future.”

“A special welcome to our most honored guests – all the family and friends joining us today. We know the sacrifices you have made to get your loved one to this point, and I want you to know that they have not gone unnoticed,” Addington stated.

“I mentioned rebuilding the department, I want to provide some prospect to this – and highlight the outstanding work our recruitment teams have been doing,” the Chief shared. “We currently have six new officers in the Field Training Program (including Pen) and 19 recruits in police academies. The first two will graduate next week. Six more officers will begin their academy journey next month, and several lateral officers are in the hiring process.

“What an exciting time to join the Antioch Police Department These new outstanding additions represent the department’s future, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to help shape our path forward,” he added.

Bios

Addington introduced each of the four men and provided their backgrounds.

Captain John Miller

“Captain Miller began his law enforcement career in 1984 as a Cadet with the Contra Costa County Sherriff’s Department. He became a Reserve Deputy Sheriff serving in Detention and on Patrrol and joined the Vacaville Police Department as a full-time police officer where he served for six years. During this time with Vacaville, he was a K9 handler, SWAT Team member, Honor Guard member, and Cadet Advisor.

“Captain Miller then served with the Vallejo Police Department for nearly 10 years, promoting to Corporal then Sergeant. He served as a Beat Health Officer in the Community Services Division employing the Community Oriented Policing and Problem-Solving philosophy, the Department Training Supervisor, SWAT Team Leader, and Department Rangemaster, overseeing all use of force training and equipment. His other duties at Vallejo included Cadet Advisor and Honor Guard. He went to the Pacific Grove Police Department Police as a Commander where he served for nearly four years as the second-in-command of the department. He was also the regional SWAT team Tactical Commander. Captain Miller was hired as the Chief of Police of the Winters Police Department in July 2016, where he has served for over eight years.

“Over his career, Captain Miller has been awarded the Medal of Valor, two Medals of Merit and a Medal of Good Conduct, 10851 Award for recovering stolen vehicles, among many other commendations.

“Captain Miller earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Personnel Administration and Industrial Relations from Cal-State Hayward (now East Bay) and his Master’s degree in Public Administration with Honors, from Golden Gate University. He has attended the FBI National Academy, California POST Command College and California Police Captain’s Association Executive Leadership Institute.

“Captain Miller also taught at the Napa Valley Criminal Justice Center’s Basic Police Academy for several years teaching firearms, force options simulator, use of force law and weapons law. Captain Miller currently serves on the California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) Professional Development Committee, represents CPCA on the POST Instructor Standards Advisory Committee and is a facilitator of the CPCA Second in Command Course.

“Captain Miller has two adult children and was active in their lives as a Cub Scout Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster and a 4-H leader. His son earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and his daughter earned a Bronze Award in 4-H.

Captain Miller is an avid outdoorsman. He dove for abalone and spearfished on California’s north coast. He is also SCUBA certified and has dived in warm water destinations such as Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Belie, Jamaica and Hawaii.

Fun Fact: Captain Miller has back packed into the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana four times to hunt elk. “The Bob,” as it is known, is one of the largest nearly untouched wilderness areas in the Lower 48. He was thrown twice by horses, and after those experiences, he packed in last year on foot using pack llamas.

“We’re very excited to lure him over to the APD as a captain,” the chief added.

Addington handed Miller his pin and said, “His uniform wasn’t ready yet, but we didn’t want to wait because we need him.”

Miller later said he didn’t have anyone there to pin him as he wasn’t expecting such a grand ceremony. “At Winters, we were just sworn in during a council meeting, given a handshake and told to ‘get to work,’” he said with a laugh.

Lt. Joe Njoroge (pronounced “Jarogay”)

“Joe began his law enforcement career as a police officer with the San Jose Police Department in 2008, where he served for five years. In 2012, he left San Jose and joined the Walnut Creek Police Department, where he worked for 12 years, and went to join us here at Antioch in 2013.

“Over his 17 years in law enforcement, he has also gained extensive training and experience. Some of his past assignments included Cadet Advisor, Emergency Vehicle operations Instructor, Field Training Officer, SWAT “Operator, and Special Enforcement Team Officer.

In 2019, he was promoted to Sergeant and supervised multiple patrol teams and the Special Events Unit. In 2022, I transitioned to the Detective Bureau and oversaw property and person crimes.

“He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering, which he earned in 2001. Before going into law enforcement, he worked in the semiconductor industry.”

“He’s probably the smartest person in the department,” Addington stated.

“Throughout his career, Joe actively participated in several teams, including the Peer Support Team and Neighborhood Watch Team, and served as the Pink Patch Project Coordinator. He also assisted the Fleet Manager in ensuring efficient operations.

“He graduated from the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and Leadership Contra Costa and is pursuing a master’s degree in public administration in Criminal Justice.” About the Sherman Block training, Addington said, it’s “a nine-month program with chiefs across the state. It helps you really learn about yourself.”

“One of Joe’s passions is soccer,” the Chief continued. “He has dedicated time to coaching youth teams in San Jose at Downtown College Prep and Walnut Creek for the Walnut Creek Soccer Club. He strives to inspire the next generation through sports and teamwork.

Fun Fact: In Joe’s spare time, he enjoys working on mastering the craft of BBQ.  His family and friends say he makes a mean brisket and BBQ chicken wings.”

 “I know you’ll fit in well here because we have some pretty good soccer players in Antioch,” Addington stated and shared about the department’s newest lieutenant that, “He loves cookies. So, we have some in the back.”

After introducing Njoroge Addington thanked, “the Walnut Creek alumni who are here, today including former Chief Jamie Knox.”

Njoroge had his son and wife pin him with his new badge.

Sgt. Dan Fachner

“Dan grew up in Livermore, California, and enlisted in the Air Force in 1990 after graduating high school. He served on active-duty status in the Air Force for 11 years as a jet engine mechanic on KC-135 air refuelers. In 2001, Dan was honorably discharged from active-duty status in the Air Force and was hired by the San Police Department as a Police Officer. He attended and graduated from the San Jose Police Academy at Evergreen Community College.

“9/11 occurred during Dan’s police academy, and he decided to serve his country again. He joined the Air Force Reserves after graduating from the Police Academy, was activated, and returned to active duty. He proudly served during Operation Enduring Freedom, working on KC10 aircraft refuelers responsible for worldwide support.

“While at the San Jose Police Department, Dan worked in patrol field services for 12 years. He was a Rifle Team member and an instructor for the field training program. Dan had a collateral assignment as a gang suppression officer, where he reduced gang crimes in the City of San Jose.

“In 2013 Dan retired from the Air Force after serving for 23 years. He joined the Antioch Police Department in 2013 as a Police Officer and was assigned to patrol field services. While in patrol field services, Dan has been a K9 handler, Rifle Team member, Field Training Officer, and Drone Operator. Dan had a collateral assignment and was assigned to the Contra Costa County Vehicle Suppression Enforcement Team, which focused on reducing vehicle thefts. In July of 2024, Dan was promoted to the rank of Corporal.

“Dan enjoys traveling with his wife, Crissy, when he is not at work. He is also an avid golfer and bass fisherman.

Fun Fact: Dan recently competed in a bass fishing Tournament of Champions series, competing against the top 100 fishermen in California.”

About Fachner the Chief added, “he’s had a distinguished career, and he’s really earned this. In July we promoted him to corporal and he’s done such a good job that a few months later we’re promoting him to sergeant.”

Fachner had Sgt. Dave Moody of the San Jose Police Department, who has 45 years of experience in law enforcement, pin on his badge.

Officer Junior Pen- Academy Graduate

“Junior was born and raised in Stockton and attended Ronald E. McNair High School. During high school, he trained in Muay Thai, a form of kickboxing. He is the first-generation police officer in his family and is very proud of it – which he should be. He attended and graduated from the Alameda County Police Academy, receiving a certificate of achievement. Junior found a calling to be a police officer because of his mentor, slain Stockton Police Officer Jimmy Inn’s sacrifice. Officer Inn motivated him to want to serve and protect the community.”

Addington then recognized members of Inn’s family who were in attendance for the ceremony. “Officer Inn was shot and killed on a domestic violence call in May 2021,” he shared. “He was a mentor to Officer Junior Pen and his legacy lives on in law enforcement. Junior was motivated by Officer Inn to join the Antioch Police Department.”

“Junior likes fishing, weightlifting, and spending time with his family in his free time,” Addington continued.

“Fun Fact: Junior is a nerd for the Star Wars movies franchise – as do most of us, I’m sure,” the Chief added.

Pen asked his cousin to pin his badge on his uniform.

Oaths of Office and Honor

Following their introductions, Addington administered their oaths of office. Then after each of the four men was pinned, they offered remarks which included thanking Addington for hiring them.

The Chief then shared about the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Law Enforcement Oath of Honor saying, “The IACP Governing Body developed an Oath of Honor to punctuate the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect and ensuring the preservation of human life.

What is the Oath of Honor

“This is a public affirmation of your commitment to adhere to this oath and demonstrate the highest ethical standards. Before you take the Oath of Honor, you must understand what it means. This oath is a solemn pledge that you sincerely intend to abide by the terms of the Oath of Honor. Do each of you understand that?” Addington asked. They all replied, “Yes.”

“Raise your right hand and repeat the oath of Honor to affirm this,” the Chief said and led the men in the additional oath.

“Thank you for joining us in this moment of celebration, and please join me in congratulating these exceptional officers on their achievements. We look forward to their continued impact on shaping the path ahead,” the Chief added.

Family, friends and former and current colleagues congratulated and joined the men for photos and refreshments, which included the cookies Addington previously mentioned, as well as brownies and strawberries covered in sugary blue frosting and white chocolate, set inside letters spelling “APD.”

See videos of each of the four later on the Antioch Herald Facebook page.

Robert Chukwuemeka Chuksorji held on $2 million bail; police ask any other victims to come forward

By Sgt. Whitaker #6155, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau

On June 24, 2024 at 6:36 AM, the Antioch Police arrested a suspect wanted for a violent sexual assault. During the investigation, several other victims were identified and provided crucial information to the case. The Antioch Police Department Investigations Bureau began investigating multiple cases over the past ten years.

The suspect, 37-year-old Robert Chukwuemeka Chuksorji (born 10/17/87), would meet women either in person or online, obtain their phone number and begin a texting relationship. Chuksorji would then plan to meet the victim, which would later turn into a sexual assault. Chuksorji was ultimately caught, and charges have been filed against him

During the investigation, detectives determined that there could be other unreported sexual assaults and victims related to Chuksorji. Chuksorji may have used several other names throughout the years. If you have been victimized by this individual, please contact the Antioch Police Department immediately.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, as of Monday, October 14, 2024, he was still in custody. The six-foot, two-inch tall, 175-pound Chuksorji is being held in the Martinez Detention Facility with bail set at $2 million. His next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 22 at 8:30 AM in Delta Superior Court, Dept. 04 in Pittsburg.

According to localcrimenews.com, Chuksorji was also arrested in 2017 by Antioch PD on July 27, 2016 on an outstanding warrant.

This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released at this time. Any tips or other information can be directed to Antioch Police Detective Allen at (925) 779-6923 or by email aallen@antiochca.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.