By Allen D. Payton

Both Deer Valley High School and nearby Diablo Vista Elementary were placed on lock down due to the report of a weapon on the high school’s campus Friday. But the report turned out to be false and normal schedules at both schools have resumed and police officers remain in the vicinity.

According to Antioch Unified School District Superintendent Stephanie Anello, the following messages were sent to parents and staff:

“Good afternoon,

This is Mr. Lewis, Principal of Deer Valley High School. A short time ago, an individual claiming to be a Deer Valley student called the Antioch Police Department and reported that a non-student was on campus with what appeared to be a weapon. Officers were immediately dispatched, and the school initiated a lockdown. APD and administration conducted a thorough search of the campus using officers and a drone. No individual was located on campus matching the description given by the alleged student. We have also confirmed that there is no student at Deer Valley with the name the alleged student gave to APD. At this time, APD has lifted the lockdown and students are resuming their normal schedules. Out of an abundance of caution, APD will have officers in the vicinity of the school for the remainder of the school day. As always, please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions, etc. Thank you for your support.

“Good afternoon,

This is Ms. Bausola, Principal of Diablo Vista. A short time ago, an individual claiming to be a Deer Valley student called the Antioch Police Department and reported that a non-student was on campus with what appeared to be a weapon. Officers were immediately dispatched and the school initiated a lockdown. Out of an abundance of caution, Diablo Vista initiated a lockdown as well. Both APD and administration did a thorough search of the campuses.  No individual was located on either campus matching the description given by the alleged Deer Valley student who called APD. At this time, APD has lifted the lockdown and students are resuming their normal schedules. Out of an abundance of caution, APD will have officers in the vicinity of the school for the remainder of the school day. As always, please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions, etc. Thank you for your support.”

 

Clerk identified, shot first; police seek second unidentified suspect

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Police Department announced on Wednesday the arrest of Ronald Jackson, III (corrected from the original police report he was Ronald Jackson, Jr.) for the robbery and shooting death of a Chevron gas station and convenience store clerk in Antioch on Sunday morning, Nov. 26.

The Investigations Bureau presented this case to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, and he has been charged with robbery, possession of stolen property, and a firearm enhancement.

The department’s new public information officer, Ashley Crandell identified the clerk as 36-year-old James Williams of Antioch. He was shot while exchanging gunfire with the two suspects.

According to Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office PIO Ted Asregadoo, “gunfire was exchanged, one suspect is in the hospital and an arrest warrant with charges for second degree robbery (PC211), receiving stolen property with a value over $950 (PC496A) and an enhancement (PC12022.53B) for personal use of a firearm in a robbery was filed with the court today (Wednesday).”

Crandell confirmed there were two suspects and the one in the hospital is suffering from gunshot wounds. The other suspect who police have not yet identified is still at large. She confirmed the clerk shot first as the suspects were leaving the convenience store.

During a press conference Wednesday night, Crandell said, “Williams chased after the suspects in the parking lot and shot after both of the suspects.” He hit Jackson in the leg and “Jackson then returned fired striking our victim, James Williams in the chest and the leg.” Williams “was pronounced deceased at the scene after going back into the gas station where he had collapsed.”

“Mr. Jackson showed up at a house in the 2800 block of Seville Circle where that resident had called the police – approximately 12 minutes after the incident – and advised that someone had been shot there. We also responded to that location and Mr. Jackson was transported to a local hospital where he is still being treated for his injuries. He is in stable condition at that hospital.”

“The second suspect has not yet been identified but he has been described as an unknown raced male wearing red clothing. We do not have a vehicle description at this time to provide,” she added.

She said the police will not release, at this time, how many shots were fired in the parking lot.

The suspect is known to the Antioch Police Department, but Crandell would not share any additional details.

“We do have surveillance video, but we are not releasing it at this time,” she stated.

The suspects “took some kind of U.S. currency,” but Crandell wouldn’t say how much. When asked if both suspects are Antioch residents she said, “that we are not going confirm that at this time.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the Antioch Police Department non-emergency line at (925) 778-2441, or Detective Adam Duffy at (925) 779-6890 or aduffy@antiochca.gov. You may also text-a-tip to 274637 (CRIMES) using the key word ANTIOCH.

East County Today contributed to this report.

Police seek suspect(s)

By Lieutenant John Fortner, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau

On Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, at approximately 02:05 AM, the Antioch Police Department Dispatch Center received an emergency call from 2701 Contra Loma Boulevard. The call was from an employee at the Extra Mile convenience store in the Chevron gas station reporting a person had been shot.

Several Antioch police officers responded to the scene and found a male down on the floor, just inside the convenience store, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Officers began to administer first-aid and called for Fire Department and AMR paramedics to respond.

Despite the live-saving efforts of first responders, the victim, a 36-year-old cashier, succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Officers at the scene were able to determine that the victim was an employee-clerk at the service station and was held-up at gunpoint during what appears to be a “botched robbery.” The suspect(s) fled on-foot from the scene and have not been located.

Antioch Police Department’s Investigations Bureau, consisting of Crime Scene Investigators and detectives with the Violent Crimes and Special Operations Units, responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.

Currently, detectives are interviewing witnesses in the area and are working to identify all the parties involved to include suspects or persons-of-interest. The investigation is still active, and evidence is being collected.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Antioch Police Department non-emergency line at (925) 778-2441, or Detective Duffy at (925) 779-6890 / aduffy@antiochca.gov. You may also text-a-tip to 274637 (CRIMES) using the key word ANTIOCH.

Including ghost gun during warrant search in violence reduction investigation

By Antioch Police Department

On Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022, APD officers and Special Operations Unit detectives executed a search warrant at a residence in Brentwood related to an ongoing drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession investigation. During the search, detectives located four semi-auto pistols (one of which was a P80 ghost gun), one rifle, numerous 30 round magazines, a THC lab, several pounds of marijuana, Xanax and numerous other prescription pills, and over $10,000 (which was asset seized).

Three individuals were arrested in connection with this incident and the case will be presented to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for charges.

Do you have information on drug trafficking or other crimes occurring in our city? You can text an anonymous tip to 274637 (CRIMES) with the keyword ANTIOCH. Thanks for helping us keep OUR community safe!

Would you like to join a team of dedicated officers who strategically work to identify sources of crime and take action? We are hiring entry-level, academy graduate, and lateral police officers, with a salary ranging from from $107,928 to $131,196 and a $30,000 signing bonus. We offer comprehensive benefit packages, a CalPERS pension, enhanced 12-hour work schedule which includes an on-duty fitness program, shift and education pay incentives, tuition reimbursement, and numerous exciting assignment opportunities. Visit www.JoinAntiochPD.com for more information.

By Antioch Police Department

In an effort to provide a little joy to those in our community who may be struggling this holiday season, APD is once again hosting an annual Holiday Giveaway Event scheduled for Saturday, December 17, 2022, from 9 am-12 pm.

Please take a moment to review the flier below with information on how to register along with requirements.

To DONATE or for more information/questions, please email us at APDevent@gmail.com.

En español:

Información del evento de sorteo de vacaciones

En un esfuerzo por brindar un poco de alegría a aquellos en nuestra comunidad que pueden estar luchando en esta temporada navideña, APD una vez más organiza un evento anual de obsequio festivo programado para el sábado 17 de diciembre de 2022, de 9 am a 12 pm.

Tómese un momento para revisar el folleto adjunto con información sobre cómo registrarse junto con los requisitos.

Para DONAR o para obtener más información/preguntas, envíenos un correo electrónico a APDevent@gmail.com

 

Oakley & Brentwood PD, Antioch K9, drone assist

By Antioch Police Department

Are you ready for another East County Strong mixed in with some Canine Nox? (it’s been awhile)

Friday evening, Nov. 18, 2022, at approximately 10:41 pm, a Brentwood Police officer spotted a carjacked Dodge Challenger taken from Stockton and pursued it into Antioch. The suspects who carjacked the vehicle were reportedly armed with handguns.

An Oakley Police officer picked up the pursuit and the vehicle was lost in the area of Mission Drive. Our very own Corporal Duggar located the vehicle parked on Los Altos Way near Monterey Drive and detained one suspect standing nearby. A second suspect foot bailed into the adjacent yards and a perimeter was quickly established.

Officer Hughes responded with his drone along with Officer Bushby and Canine Nox. Officer Hughes spotted an individual hiding in a backyard shed, and he eventually gave up after hearing Officer Bushby’s canine warning announcements. (See body cam footage)

A third suspect called 9-1-1 to report he had been in the carjacked vehicle and surrendered himself to officers, eventually admitting to being involved in the incident. All three suspects were turned over to the Stockton Police Department.

Officers spent several hours working this high-risk incident utilizing their training, tactics, a police canine and drone equipment to deliver an outcome resulting in no injuries to anyone. How bout an ‘atta boy for Canine Nox?

We’d like to thank the residents of Los Altos Way and Monterey Drive for assisting our officers while they worked this incident. This cooperation is what makes Antioch a community officers love to police because of your support.

Want to join Officers Bushby, Hughes, and Corporal Duggar in protecting our community? Check out http://JoinAntiochPd.com to learn how you can receive a $30,000 signing bonus, get paid to go to the Police Academy, and have a chance to make a real difference.

 

 

By Antioch Police Department

While you were sleeping…

Early Friday morning, Nov. 18, 2022, at approximately 2:14 am, APD Dispatch was alerted by a security company for Walgreens of a burglary in-progress where an individual was observed on surveillance camera shattering the front door and going inside. The store is located in the shopping center at the corner of Deer Valley Road and Davison Drive. Officers immediately responded and received updates that the suspect was stealing tobacco products and medications.

When officers arrived, the suspect slipped away, but didn’t get too far, because Officer Tanguma found him hiding in a nearby dumpster. He was sent to the county jail on charges of felony burglary, being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition, and probation violation.

Did you know Officer Tanguma is an Army Veteran and one of our stellar police recruiters? Join him in protecting our community by visiting http://JoinAntiochPD.com Current salary ranging from $107,928.00 – $131,196.00 annually, comprehensive benefits package, 12-hour work schedule (3 days on/4 days off, 4-on/3-off every other week), on-duty paid fitness program, diverse assignment opportunities (canine, drone team, CSI, SWAT, investigations, traffic unit + many more!), and a $30,000 hiring bonus!

 

11/22/22 UPDATE: Contract shows Ford’s annual compensation is $256,272 in base salary plus other pay and benefits

Without search as mayor claimed in April had begun or transparent process with public participation, council pre-approval; APOA praises hiring, Ford; city manager doesn’t inform council members until two-and-a-half weeks later; Barbanica says, “I think Ford is good for the department…city”; Ogorchock says “If our officers are pleased…then I’m happy, too”; no contract or info on his compensation released

By Allen D. Payton

Without a search for a new, permanent Antioch police chief, an expected public, transparent process or a formal announcement, on October 23, 2022, then-Interim City Manager Con Johnson appointed Interim Chief Steve Ford to the position it was announced, this week. The Antioch Police Officers’ Association (APOA) praised the decision. As previously reported, Johnson and Ford both served on the San Francisco Police force and Thorpe announced his appointment as interim chief in February. Ford filled the position in April. (See related articles here and here)

11/22/22 UPDATE: Ford’s contract, dated Oct. 24, 2022, shows his annual base salary is $256,272 slightly more than the $252,602.04 salary he was paid as a Commander for the San Francisco Police Department in 2021, according to Transparent California. His total pay including “Other Pay” as listed on that website was $267,331.82 and his benefits cost $82,541.18 and pension cost 10,022.38, that year for total compensation of $359,895.38.

According to his contract with the City of Antioch Ford will also “receive education pay and Senior Officer/Longevity Pay, in accordance with the Antioch Police Sworn Management Association (APSMA) Memorandum of Understanding”. Plus, he can receive an annual cost of living adjustment that other APSMA employees receive as determined by the city manager. Ford’s pay package includes 5 percent of his base salary in Deferred Compensation. S Ford contract 10-24-22

The hiring was announced on page four of Johnson’s City Manager Bi-Monthly Update issued Nov. 8 in a single sentence under Human Resources which reads, “Steven Ford was appointed to Police Chief effective October 23, 2022”. That occurred three days before Johnson was hired by the council as permanent city manager. ACM BM Update 110822

But he didn’t inform the council members until sending them an email on Wednesday, Nov. 9 which read, “Greetings, Honorable Mayor Thorpe and distinguish [sic] council members, this email is to officially inform you that Chief-Dr. Steven A. Ford has been appointed to serve as the permanent Chief of Police of the Antioch Police Department. I have attached a copy of the official press release. In accordance with our Human Resources Department protocols, the official public announcement will be administered via staff report at the next city council regular meeting on Tuesday, November 15, 2020.” Johnson copied Assistant City Manager Rosanna Bayon Moore and Human Resources Director Ana Cortez on the email.

Then a statement was issued by the APOA Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 16 followed later by a post on the Antioch Police Department’s Facebook page which read, “The Antioch Police Department is pleased to announce Dr. Steven Ford has been selected as our permanent Chief!

Chief Ford has 32 years of experience in the industry including vast experience leading major law enforcement reform efforts at the San Francisco Police Department. He came to APD six months ago to serve as interim chief, and during that short time, has had a tremendous impact on our members. Chief Ford has instituted several initiatives to bring us to the forefront of policing in our region and has prioritized continuing education and wellness for all of our staff.

Chief Ford is building on existing ties with our community and mending those which have become frayed over the years. Among his top goals are developing thoughtful community policing strategies that emphasize partnership with those we serve, improving community trust, supporting the development and well-being of our members, while delivering the highest quality service that exemplifies industry best practices.

Please join us in congratulating Chief Ford!

Link to Chief Ford’s Bio: www.antiochca.gov/police/antioch-police-chief-biography/”

A press release with the same information was issued by Acting Lt. Michael Mellone on Thursday morning, Nov. 17.

Antioch Police Praise Decision, Ford

However, despite the process, APOA President Rick Hoffman issued the following statement on Wednesday supporting Ford’s appointment:

“The Antioch Police Officers’ Association is excited to learn that Dr. Steven Ford has been officially announced as the Antioch Police Department’s permanent Chief.

From the moment Chief Ford arrived at our department, he has made every effort to support our membership and bring positive change to the department. Chief Ford has earned the trust and respect of the APOA’s membership, and we are committed to working with him to keep the city of Antioch safe.

Since his time began with Antioch PD, Chief Ford has prioritized officer training, wellness and ethics based/intelligence led policing. He also placed leadership development as a priority and created a leadership development program for all ranks throughout the department. His leadership has inspired confidence in his vision amongst our ranks and we look forward to working together for the next five years.”

Ford Offers Thanks, Praises Officers

When reached for comment about his appointment Ford responded, “I’m very grateful for the opportunity to continue my law enforcement career which now spans 32 years. APD has a great compliment of officers who are completely committed to the safety of the city, and I’m honored and privileged to work side by side with each one of them. Moreover, the city of Antioch has a lot of great people, and I’m humbled by their continued support.”

“Moving forward the city has my pledge and commitment to serve with honesty, compassion, and a focused dedication to high quality policing services,” he continued. “As mentioned prior, my focus is public safety, meaningful community engagement, and youth services.”

Council Ignores Own Calls for Recruitment & Hiring Process, Pre-Approval

According to the minutes of the council’s Police Oversight Standing Committee meeting on Oct. 26, 2021, under the agenda item entitled Police Chief Recruitment and Hiring Process, “Mayor Thorpe, Mayor Pro Tem Wilson and Council Member Torres-Walker requested a working draft that includes the following: an external recruitment pool, one representative from each district involved in the hiring process, the City Council’s ability to ratify the contract prior to hiring.”

During the council’s meeting acting as the Police Oversight Standing Committee on Nov. 23, 2021, the agenda item entitled Police Chief Recruitment and Hiring Process was included a recommendation for a “Motion to recommend that the City Council approve a policy by formal action at a regular meeting of the Antioch City Council. OR Provide direction to staff in accordance with the standing committee’s instructions.”

However, the topic for discussion was never again included on the agendas for the three committee meetings held this year in January, March and April. All other meetings of the committee planned this year were cancelled.

Thorpe Claimed Recruitment Process Had Started, No Plans to Make Ford Permanent

Yet, in April Mayor Lamar Thorpe said there weren’t plans to hire Ford as permanent police chief and that the hiring process had already begun. As previously reported, following Ford’s grand oath of office ceremony on April 27, 2022, Thorpe was asked if there were plans to move him into the permanent position as police chief. He responded, “No. You know that one of our police reform measures is the hiring process.” Asked if the council will start that process, this year or wait until the end of the year, the mayor stated, “no, we’ve started that process.”

But because Johnson, as interim city manager, was given the full authority to hire and fire department heads by the city council majority, he chose to make Ford the permanent police chief and the decision did not require council approval nor public input.

Questions for Some Councilmembers, City Staff Go Unanswered

The councilmembers were asked via email Thursday morning about Johnson hiring Ford for the permanent position and about the hiring process sought by the majority of members of the Police Oversight Standing Committee. “Did that process occur?” they were asked, and “If not, why not and how do you know Steve is the best possible choice for the position?” Johnson was also asked the latter question.

The council members were also asked, “Wasn’t the council going to decide who would be the permanent police chief and use a transparent process in which residents would be involved?” and “Why didn’t that happen?”

They were also asked, when they were informed Johnson was going to make the decision to hire Ford on a permanent basis and if they had seen Ford’s contract prior to this hiring.

Johnson was asked for Ford’s compensation, including his annual salary and benefits, and Ford, H.R. Director Ana Cortez and City Attorney Thomas Lloyd Smith were asked for a copy of Ford’s contract.

Ford was also asked if he had any comment he wanted to add about his promotion to the permanent position. He responded, “Unfortunately, I’m not at liberty to discuss the nuances of my contractual agreement.”

Ogorchock, Barbanica Didn’t Learn of Hiring Until Nov. 9, Support Ford

Ogorchock responded saying she learned of the appointment in the email to councilmembers on Nov 9th. “I want to support the police department. If our officers are pleased with Steve being permanent police chief and he brings stability to the department then I’m happy, too. I believe in Steve and his core values and what he’s brought to our city. But I was quite surprised it hadn’t gone through the process as discussed during previous council meetings and on the day he was given his oath of office.”

Barbanica also responded saying, “I got a text message with the rest of the council from Con on the 9th at 9:20 a.m. I learned of it on the 8th, when I was contacted by a member of the community asking if I was aware of the appointment mentioned in Con’s Bi-Monthly Update. I said, ‘no, I’m not’.”

“I will say I think Steve Ford is good for the department and good for the city based on everything I’ve seen. I do support a public process. However, being that wasn’t adhered to, I do feel the man we are talking about here is good for the department,” he explained. “I’ve been very clear all along. For city manager, for chief I do support a public process. We have two separate issues. Is he good for the department? Yes, he is. Did we adhere to the process? No. But the candidate has nothing to do with the process. I do feel that the candidate Con selected is a strong candidate.”

“While I support a public process, and I mean transparency, and I did not vote for this city manager, I still believe the final decision should be with the city manager, no matter who it is,” Barbanica added.

In addition, APOA President Hoffman was asked how and when his organization had learned of Ford’s appointment. He responded, “The POA learned of Chief Ford’s appointment about a week ago when the City Manager released it in his bi-weekly newsletter.”

No other council or staff members responded prior to publication time. A Public Records Act request for Ford’s compensation and contract was submitted via email late Friday afternoon, Nov. 18. The city staff members have 10 days to respond.

Please check back later for any updates to this report.