Stolen gun recovered by a Brentwood Police Officer from suspect during traffic stop in Antioch on Feb. 12, 2025. Photo: Brentwood PD
Already out of custody
By Brentwood Police Department
Last Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025, around midnight, a Brentwood officer conducted a traffic stop near Lone Tree Way and Williamson Ranch for expired registration.
The driver, 33-year-old Deontae Markell Alexander of Antioch, was found to be unlicensed. Further investigation revealed that Alexander, a convicted felon, was in possession of a loaded firearm, which he is legally prohibited from owning or carrying. Officers also determined the firearm had been reported stolen.
This marks the officer’s fourth gun-related arrest this year, reinforcing the department’s commitment to keeping illegal firearms out of the community.
According to localcrimenews.com, Alexander was charged with Receiving or Concealing Stolen Property, Addict in Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Ammunition, Carrying a Loaded Firearm on Person or in Vehicle while in a Public Place, and Carrying a Concealed Weapon in a Vehicle. He also has a history of arrests dating back to before 2014 by multiple agencies including Antioch PD and Oakland PD for crimes including vehicle theft, possession of marijuana over 28.5 grams, DUI alcohol with BAC over .08 and battery on a spouse, cohabitant or former spouse.
According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, as of Friday, Feb. 14, he is out of custody and on his own recognizance.
SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that 74 schools throughout the state were recognized as Model Continuation High Schools (MCHS) for 2025. These schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. Continuation schools provide a high school diploma program for students who have not graduated from high school, are required to attend school, and are at risk of not completing their education.
Four of those schools are located in Contra Costa County: • Antioch Unified School District, Bidwell High School in Antioch • Mount Diablo Unified School District, Olympic High School in Concord • San Ramon Valley Unified School District, Del Amigo High in San Ramon • West Contra Costa School District, Sylvester Greenwood Academy in Richmond
“Today, we celebrate 74 commendable schools for their tremendous efforts as alternative campuses of learning,” said Superintendent Thurmond. “The priority of our Model Continuation High Schools is to give students more than a diploma. The teachers and administrators aim to provide students with a student-centered approach that meets their diverse academic, social, and emotional needs and opportunities to explore options beyond high school, preparing students for the future whether they choose to pursue further education or join the workforce.”
Currently, there are 429 continuation high schools who serve close to 49,000 students throughout the state. MCHSs excel and provide exceptional opportunities for their students to pursue academic and social success.
The Model Continuation High School Recognition Program is a collaborative partnership between the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus). Schools operate their own exemplary programs, but Model Continuation High School–recognized educators commit to supporting and mentoring their peers in other local educational agencies.
The 74 schools selected as Model Continuation High Schools retain their designation for three years. They will be recognized at the CCEA Plus 2025 State Conference in April. For more information on continuation education, please visit the CDE Continuation Education web page.
UPDATE: In a post on the Antioch Unified School District’s Facebook page on Thursday, Feb. 20, AUSD Director of Secondary Schools Lindsay Wisely was quoted as saying, “Bidwell High School has an array of programs that provide students with academic support, college/career exposure, and mental health resources. The educators and outstanding principal provide students with an exceptional small school experience. Students who attend there are proud of their campus.”
The post also included, “Big congrats to Principal LaTanya Williams and staff for continuing to serve their students so well.”
About Bidwell High School Bidwell High School is one of two continuation high schools in the Antioch Unified School District (AUSD), serving students in grades 10 through 12, ages 16-18 years old. The purpose of Bidwell is to provide students who are deficient in credits with an alternative opportunity to improve their academic skills as they work toward graduating with their class.
Students typically have a four-period day, but more periods can be added based on a student’s proven commitment to quality work and a student’s particular graduation status. Grades and credits are issued on a quarterly basis. Almost all schoolwork is completed in small classes under the direction of the instructor. A high school diploma may be earned by meeting the Antioch Unified School District’s credit requirement of 180 credits for continuation schools.
Bidwell works continuously to develop programs that offer a unique and nurturing environment that includes a small community setting, an individualized graduation plan developed and monitored for each student, staff with a high level of experience, and a diverse student population. To learn more visit www.antiochschools.net/o/bhs.
March 1st Virtual Job Fair highlights opportunities
By Jen Vanya, Public Information Specialist | Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District
The East Bay Regional Park District is a major employer of students in Alameda and Contra Costa counties, staffing approximately 300 seasonal positions annually. There are many employment options available for the 2025 summer season at East Bay Regional Parks.
Virtual Youth Job Fair: Saturday, Mar. 1 The East Bay Regional Park District has a wide variety of opportunities for youth, young adults, and students. The Virtual Youth Job Fair is designed for applicants ages 15–24, although the minimum age requirement for most jobs is 16 years old. Resume and interview tips provided. Pre-registration highly recommended. Virtual Youth Job Fair via Zoom Saturday, Mar. 1, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. More information and a Zoom registration link can be found at www.ebparks.org/jobs/youth.
Youth and Seasonal Jobs The East Bay Regional Park District is now accepting applications for summer and seasonal jobs. Spend summer in the great outdoors, build leadership skills in a team environment, and create lasting memories while gaining valuable work experience in the East Bay community. Positions include:
Public Safety Student Aide Visit the Park District jobs webpage for more information: www.ebparks.org/jobs
The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Thomas Gaines Virtual Academy’s Crystal Berry had a 25-year career in education
By Allen D. Payton
On Thursday, February 13, 2025, the Antioch Unified School District informed the families of students at Thomas Gaines Virtual Academy that Principal Crystal Berry had passed. Classes at the school were not held on Friday.
A post on the district’s Facebook page on Friday offered more details: It is with extreme sadness we share that longtime educator Crystal Berry has passed away. In her 25-year career, she taught, guided, helped and cheered on countless students and staff members. She graced the campuses of Diablo Vista, Marsh and Lone Tree elementary schools, Park Middle and, most recently, was the principal of Thomas Gaines Virtual Academy. In a 2019 district Facebook article, Crystal said one of the funniest things that happened in her teaching career was when her students told her she was Superwoman. “It’s because I could run and play basketball in high heels!” Over the years, Crystal would say schools were her happy place. “I love being in a role where I can implement changes … and provide guidance and support to students, staff and families. “I love children. I believe they are unique, resilient and talented.” The family requests privacy during this heartbreaking time. We send them comforting thoughts.
The letter to families from the district’s Director of Secondary Support, Lindsay Lopez-Wisely, read as follows:
February 13, 2025
Dear TGVA Families,
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Principal, Crystal Berry. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Berry family and the entire TGVA and AUSD community. Ms. Berry dedicated over twenty-five years to serving our students, staff, and families, and her passing is a profound loss for all who knew her.
During this difficult time, our crisis team will be available to support students, staff, and parents as we navigate this loss together. Counselors, mental health clinicians, and restorative facilitators will be on-site and available virtually for those in need of support. To connect with a support provider, please contact the TGVA office. We can arrange either a virtual session or an in-person meeting.
Schedule Update for Friday, February 14th
Out of respect for our community and to allow time for processing this loss, teachers will not hold classes on Friday, February 14th. Instead, students will receive asynchronous assignments with extended time for completion.
Coping with Loss
A loss like this can affect each of us differently. Some may grieve personally, others may feel deep sympathy, and some may be reminded of past losses. No matter how you are experiencing this, please know that you are not alone. Support is available both on campus and within our community.
On-Campus Support
•Visit the TGVA office – counseling staff will be available in Room 501 •Call the TGVA office at 925-779-7640 to sign up for support with a counselor •Email Kathryn Coyle Youker, Coordinator of Counseling Services at KathrynCoyle-Youker@antiochschools.net
Community Support
Antioch Unified School District has partnered with Care Solace to provide confidential, complimentary mental health support for students, staff, and their families. If you or a family member need assistance, you can use Care Solace to connect with therapists or treatment programs, regardless of circumstances. •Call: 888-515-0595 (Available 24/7/365, any language) •Visit: www.caresolace.com/antiochschools to search for providers or book an appointment viavideo chat, email, or phone.
Emergency Resources
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek immediate support: •Call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Trained (C.I.T.) response •Go to the nearest emergency room •Text “Hello” or “Home” to 741741 for crisis support •Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ+ Crisis Support): 1-866-488-7386 •National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (Online chat)
We appreciate your support for one another during this time of grief. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.
With deepest sympathy,
Lindsay Lopez-Wisely Director of Secondary Support
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Area 3 Trustee Dee Brown offered her thoughts on Berry’s passing. In a post on her official Facebook page on Saturday she wrote, “My deepest condolences and prayers are with the Beautiful Principal Crystal Berry family. May her family and everyone connected to her be comforted as her memories are always cherished and her legacy continues. Rest well Ms. Berry.”
ANTIOCH – The Board of Director of the Contra Costa Event Park, Home of the Contra Costa County Fair announce their search for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Current CEO Joe Brengle announced that he would be retiring at the end of June 2025.
Under the Board’s guidance, the CEO plans, executes and manages the annual Contra Costa County Fair. In addition to the Annual Fair, the CEO leads the planning, organization, recruitment, and management of the Contra Costa Event Parks facility rental program (Interim Events), along with negotiating and facilitating long term rental agreements.
Current CEO Joe Brengle with a character during the 2024 Contra Costa County Fair. Photo: CC Event Park
The Monthly Salary Range for the position is $8,630 – $10,567. The salary will be based on the successful candidate’s qualifications with CalHR approval. An example of additional benefits include: State of California, Public Employment Retirement System (PERS), Vacation & Sick Leave, Health Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan and State Holidays.
A full description of the position and application process is available on the Fairs website CEO-Flyer.pdf, or can be picked up at the Fair Administration Office, 1201 W. 10th Street, Antioch.
Monica’s Riverview is located on the water at 1 I (eye) Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. For their menu and more information see visitmonicas.com.
On February 12, 2025, at approximately 10:24 p.m., Antioch police officers responded to the area of Hillcrest Avenue and Larkspur Drive for reports of shots fired in the area. When officers arrived on the scene, they found a victim who had been shot at least once. Antioch police officers provided aid to the victim who was transported to a local hospital.
The 22-year-old male victim later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The Antioch Police Department’s Investigations Bureau, consisting of Crime Scene Investigators and detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit responded to take over the investigation. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released at this time.
Any further information or additional press releases will be provided by the Investigations Bureau. Any tips or other information can be directed to Antioch Police Detective Cox at (925) 481-8147 or by email at jcox@antiochca.gov.
It was the second fatal shooting in Antioch this year.
Former Antioch Police Commissioner Lesli May speaking at the Antioch City Council meeting on Jan.. 17, 2025, at which she made her racist comment and during the Commission meeting on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. Councilman Don Freitas at the council meeting on Jan. 28, 2025, at which he called for May to publicly apologize or resign. Video screenshots
Leslie May claims she and her family “have endured numerous attacks on [her] individual property” and from local media baselessly saying they were “constantly pushing false narratives…inciting violent rhetoric”
Blames Councilman Freitas for “cultural misunderstanding” of her racist comments without explaining what she meant
Claims her “work on the commission has been transformational”
By Allen D. Payton
The City of Antioch finally released the resignation letter from former Antioch Police Oversight Commission member Leslie May, following her use of “the N-word” twice during the Jan. 17, 2025, special council meeting to describe City Manager Bessie Scott and then-City Attorney Thomas L. Smith. May submitted it on Monday, Feb. 10, after District 3 Councilman Don Freitas, who initially called for her to publicly apologize and resign from the commission.
After she refused to do either, he later requested to have a vote for her removal placed on this past Tuesday’s city council meeting agenda. Scott announced May’s resignation on Monday but did not provide the letter emailed to her, Mayor Ron Bernal, the City Clerk’s office and copying District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker that day. (See related articles here, here and here)
As previously reported, each council member could choose one member from their district to be nominated for appointment to the commission during the council meeting on Feb. 13, 2024. Torres-Walker nominated May for a two-year appointment that was to last through November this year, but she served a little less than a year.
In her resignation letter, below, May claims Freitas called for her “resignation due to a cultural misunderstanding” but did not explain what she meant by that.
Following is her emailed letter of resignation:
From: Leslie May To: Bessie M. Scott; Ron Bernal; City Clerk Cc: Tamisha Torres-Walker Subject: Resignation Date: Monday, February 10, 2025 8:35:22 AM Date: 02/10/2025 Time: 8:30 am
To whom it may concern,
After talking with family and reflecting on my personal experience, it is in the best interest of my safety and health, I, Leslie D. May, am resigning effective immediately from my role as a commissioner for the Antioch Police Oversight Commission. My family and I have endured numerous attacks on my individual property, attacks from local opinion papers constantly pushing false narratives about my advocacy, inciting violent rhetoric now and prior to my appointment with the Antioch Police Oversight Commission. The dangerous attacks against me have increased since my appointment and most recently fueled by Councilmember Don Freitas calling for my resignation due to a cultural misunderstanding.
As a 73 year of age Black woman, I am a grandmother, a great grandmother, and a surrogate mother to many in our community. I am a physically disabled person from birth and over the past three years I have experienced derogatory statements about my facial features, my physical disabilities and false statements to my employer threatening the economic stability of family.
Related to these attacks the Federal DOJ has received reports, the California DOJ has received reports, the Antioch Police Department has received reports, the Federal Bureau of Investigations has received reports, and the Contra Costa County District Attorney Office has received reports. These agencies are actively investigating threats and actions made by community members in Antioch, surrounding cities, as well as local elected Officials.
Despite these attacks, my work on the commission has been transformational and has clearly defined Constitutional non bias policing in the City of Antioch starting with the following actions I have taken. I have been present, prepared, and attentive to the needs of those impacted negatively by policing in Antioch since my appointment. I have spent time reviewing the budget, policies, practices, and procedures of the police department and due to my due diligence, I have made credible recommendations like increasing mental health services for officers, increasing staff to meet these needs with a sense of urgency, and increased community engagement in our highest needs communities to foster trust and transparency.
I have been an advocate and activist, fighting for the civil rights of everyone. I have marched in Berkeley, Oakland, San Francisco, Georgia, the Carolinas, with Ceasar Chavez and the farmworkers, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Jesse Jackson, and many more activists since I was 8 years old. I can assure the City of Antioch and all my supporters that I will continue my advocacy and activism as a private citizen uninhibited by bureaucracy and the status quo.
Former Antioch Police Oversight Commissioner Leslie D. May
Publisher’s Note: Neither the Antioch Herald, nor I as the publisher and reporter on this matter, ever attacked Ms. May, published false narratives about her or her advocacy or incited violent rhetoric either in articles on the website or on the Antioch Herald Facebook page, prior to or since her appointment to the commission nor since her racist comments that were made during the special council meeting on Jan. 17, 2025.
I stand by and will defend the reporting of the facts about what she said, and what she and others have said about the matter. Furthermore, I rarely offer my opinion on the Antioch Herald news website but do so frequently on the Facebook page as I engage with our readers, as I, too am a resident of Antioch.
Yet, I have always shown Ms. May respect when challenging some comments she has written on that social media outlet and gave her the opportunity to edit them as I afford all of those who choose to comment there but include certain words that get them automatically hidden by the settings on the page – based on the community standards I have determined for it – or were administratively hidden.As I’ve said to politicians in the past, if you don’t like or want what you say, write or do reported, then don’t say, write or do those things. The same goes for any government official or candidate for public office.
