46-year-old Eric Rombough was charged with conspiring to deprive Antioch residents of their civil rights through use of excessive force, deprivation of rights under color of law, more

By United States Attorney’s Office Northern District of California

OAKLAND – In 2023 and 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California charged ten current and former officers and employees from the Antioch and Pittsburg police departments with crimes ranging from conspiracy to violate civil rights through excessive use of force to fraud.  The last of the ten defendants, Eric Allen Rombough, 46, of Fairfield, was sentenced today to 50 months of imprisonment.  Senior U.S. District Judge Jeffrey S. White handed down all of the sentences.  With Rombough’s sentence, the total sentences for all ten defendants exceeds 21 years.

“We entrust law enforcement with vast power, and when they abuse it, they not only betray the oath they took and the community they serve, but they also undermine the public’s trust in our criminal justice system,” said United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian.  “Eric Rombough’s sentencing is an important milestone in our successful, multi-year effort to root out corruption within the Antioch and Pittsburg police departments and we will continue to hold accountable anyone who violates federal law, regardless of their position.”

“The sentencing of Eric Rombough marks the culmination of a years-long investigation driven by the relentless work of FBI agents, analysts, and our law enforcement partners who refused to overlook misconduct, regardless of position or authority.  This case underscores a fundamental truth: no one is above the law, especially those entrusted to uphold it.  When officers abuse their authority, they undermine the very foundation of public trust.  The FBI remains steadfast in pursuing those who betray that trust, and we will continue working to ensure accountability and to help restore confidence in the institutions that serve our communities,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Cobo.

Case No. 23-cr-269 JSW – Civil Rights Violations and Falsification of Records

Rombough, Morteza Amiri, 35, of Antioch, and Devon Christopher Wenger, 33, formerly of Oakley, were charged with conspiring to deprive the residents of Antioch of their civil rights through the use of excessive force, and deprivation of rights under color of law, among other violations.  In January 2025, Rombough pleaded guilty to conspiracy against rights and two counts of deprivation of rights under color of law and agreed to cooperate with the government.  According to Rombough’s plea agreement and the evidence presented during two trials, Amiri, Rombough, and Wenger communicated about actual and intended uses of force, including specific violent acts against individuals in and around Antioch, and agreed to carry out such acts knowing their actions constituted excessive uses of force by a police officer under color of law.  In particular, they agreed to and/or did deploy uses of force, including police dog bites, as “punishment” to subjects beyond any punishment appropriately imposed by the criminal justice system, collected physical or photographic “trophies” following such deployments of excessive force, and communicated after the deployments to tout the applications of force with the exchange of messages and photographs of subjects’ injuries.  They also authored reports that contained false or misleading statements to suggest that the force used was necessary or justifiable, when in truth and in fact, they willfully used excessive force.

In March 2025, following an eight-day trial, a jury found Amiri guilty of one count of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of falsification of records in connection with a July 2019 arrest.  Amiri was sentenced to 84 months in prison for these violations and the additional crimes set out below.  In September 2025, following a seven-day trial, a jury convicted Wenger of conspiracy against rights.  Wenger was sentenced to 90 months in prison for this violation and the additional crimes set out below.

Case No. 23-cr-264 JSW – Salary & Incentives Fraud

Patrick James Berhan, 33, of Oakley; Amiri; Amanda Carmella Theodosy a/k/a Nash, 35, of Discovery Bay; Samantha Genoveva Peterson, 33, of Fairfield; Ernesto Mejia-Orozco, 37, of Oakley; and Brauli Rodriguez Jalapa, 36, of Clayton, were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud related to a scheme to obtain pay raises from the police departments of the cities of Antioch and Pittsburg for university degrees they each paid someone else to obtain in their names.

Peterson pleaded guilty to wire fraud in January 2024.  Berhan pleaded guilty in March 2024 to conspiracy and wire fraud, and pleaded guilty to an additional charge for possession with intent to distribute anabolic steroids.  Berhan was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment.  In June 2024, Mejia-Orozco and Rodriguez Jalapa pleaded guilty to conspiracy and wire fraud.  In July 2024, Theodosy a/k/a Nash pleaded guilty to conspiracy and wire fraud.  Mejia-Orozco, Rodriguez Jalapa, and Theodosy a/k/a Nash were each sentenced to three months of imprisonment.  In August 2024, following a four-day trial, a jury found Amiri guilty of conspiracy and wire fraud.

Case No. 23-cr-268 JSW – Distribution of Anabolic Steroids and Destruction of Records

Daniel James Harris, 38, formerly of Discovery Bay, and Wenger were charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute anabolic steroids related to Harris’s distribution of anabolic steroids to Wenger and other police officers, and Wenger’s attempt to secure anabolic steroids from Harris for another friend.  Based on these same events, Harris was also charged with attempted possession with intent to distribute anabolic steroids and possession to distribute anabolic steroids, and Wenger was charged with destruction, alteration, and falsification of records in federal investigations, the last of which was based on Wenger’s efforts to delete digital evidence of his discussions of anabolic steroids with Harris and his friend.

Harris pleaded guilty to these charges, pleaded guilty to an additional charge for bank fraud, and agreed to cooperate with the government in September 2024.  Harris was sentenced to time served for these charges.  In April 2025, following a three-day trial, a jury found Wenger guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute anabolic steroids and destruction, alteration, and falsification of records.

Case No. 23-cr-267 JSW – Obstruction of Justice

Timothy Manly Williams, 36, of Antioch, was charged with destruction, alteration, and falsification of records in federal investigations, obstruction of official proceedings, and deprivation of rights under color of law.  The first two charges were related to a phone call Manly Williams placed while working as a police officer monitoring a wiretap to the subject of the wiretap, and his efforts to destroy or falsify records related to that phone call in the wiretap equipment.  The third charge was related to Manly Williams’s knocking a cell phone out of the hand of a citizen who had attempted to record video of a police response at which Amiri deployed his dog to bite a suspect.  Manly Williams pleaded guilty to these crimes and agreed to cooperate with the government on November 28, 2023.  He was sentenced to 3 years of probation.

United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Cobo made the announcement.

These cases were prosecuted by the National Security & Special Prosecutions Section and the Oakland Branch of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California.  These prosecutions were the result of an investigation by the FBI and the Office of the Contra Costa County District Attorney.

The following table summarizes the outcomes of these related cases, all of which were before Senior U.S. District Judge Jeffrey S. White:

Case Name and Number	Statute(s)	Defendant (Bold: multiple case numbers)	Status
Fraud 23-cr-00264	18 U.S.C. §§ 1349 (Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud; 1343 (Wire Fraud)	Patrick Berhan	Sentenced to 30 months custody, 2 years supervised release concurrent with 24-cr-157 on 9/5/24
		Morteza Amiri	Sentenced to 84 months custody, 3 years supervised release concurrent with 23-cr-269 on 6/24/25
		Amanda Theodosy a/k/a Nash	Sentenced to 3 months custody, 3 years supervised release 11/15/24
		Samantha Peterson	Sentenced to time served, 3 years supervised release on 4/24/24
		Ernesto Mejia-Orozco	Sentenced to 3 months custody, 3 years supervised release on 9/19/24
		Brauli Jalapa Rodriguez	Sentenced to 3 months custody, 3 years supervised release on 10/25/24
Obstruction 23-cr-00267	18 U.S.C. §§ 1519 (Destruction, Alteration, and Falsification of Records in Federal Investigations); 1512(c)(2) (Obstruction of Official Proceedings); 242 (Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law)	Timothy Manly Williams	Cooperated with the government; sentenced to 3 years of probation on 1/13/2026
Steroid Distribution 23-cr-00268	21 U.S.C. §§ 846 (Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Anabolic Steroids), 841(a)(1), and (b)(1)(E)(i) (Possession with Intent to Distribute Anabolic Steroids)	Daniel Harris	Cooperated with the government; sentenced to time served concurrent with 24-cr-502 on 1/13/2026
	21 U.S.C. §§ 846, 841(a)(1), and (b)(1)(E)(i) (Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Anabolic Steroids); 18 U.S.C. § 1519 (Destruction, Alteration, and Falsification of Records in Federal Investigations)	Devon Wenger	Sentenced to 90 months custody, 3 years supervised release, concurrent with 23-cr-269 on 12/2/2025
Civil Rights 23-cr-00269	18 U.S.C. §§ 241 (Conspiracy Against Rights), 242 (Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law); § 1519 (Destruction, Alteration, and Falsification of Records in Federal Investigations)	Morteza Amiri	Sentenced to 84 months custody, 3 years supervised release concurrent with 23-cr-264 on 6/24/25
	18 U.S.C. §§ 241 (Conspiracy Against Rights), 242 (Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law)	Eric Rombough	Cooperated with the government; sentenced to 50 months custody on 3/24/2026
	18 U.S.C. §§ 241 (Conspiracy Against Rights), 242 (Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law)	Devon Wenger	Sentenced to 90 months custody, 3 years supervised release, concurrent with 23-cr-268 on 12/2/2025
Steroid Distribution 24-cr-00157	21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(E)(i) (Possession with Intent to Distribute Anabolic Steroids)	Patrick Berhan	Sentenced to 30 months custody, 2 years supervised release concurrent with 23-cr-264 on 9/5/24
Bank fraud 24-cr-00502	18 U.S.C. § 1344(1), (2) (Bank fraud)	Daniel Harris	Cooperated with the government; sentenced to time served concurrent with 23-cr-268 on 1/13/2026

 Updated March 24, 2026

Gave back money plus “a dollar extra”

“He probably just wanted a place to eat and sleep.” – Raley’s employee

By Lt. Michael Mellone, Antioch Police Department

On Monday, March 23, 2026, at 6:06 p.m., Antioch Police Department officers responded to a report of a robbery in progress at the US Bank located inside the Raley’s supermarket at 3636 Lone Tree Way, Antioch.

According to reports, the suspect, later identified as 41-year-old Pittsburg resident Gerald Anthony Oretger, entered the bank and passed a handwritten note to a teller demanding money. The teller complied and provided cash. Oretger briefly left the bank but returned shortly afterward and voluntarily returned the money to the teller. A security guard on the premises detained Oretger.

According to a store employee who spoke on condition of anonymity, “The guy walked into the store handed a note to the teller. There was no gun. He asked the security guard to arrest and handcuff him. But the guard said he had no handcuffs. He probably just wanted a place to eat and sleep. He actually gave the money back to the bank and gave them a dollar extra.”

When officers arrived and attempted to take Oretger into custody, he began striking, spitting on and kicking multiple officers. He also attempted to grab an officer’s service weapon. Oretger was transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation prior to booking.

No bank employees, customers or officers sustained serious injuries during the incident.

Oretger will be booked at the Martinez Detention Facility on the following charges:

1. Robbery — California Penal Code Section 211 (Felony)

2. First-Degree Burglary — California Penal Code Section 460(a) (Felony)

3. Attempting to Remove a Firearm from a Peace Officer — California Penal Code Section 148(d) (Felony)

4. Battery on a Peace Officer — California Penal Code Section 243(b) (Misdemeanor)

The Antioch Police Department thanks the public, as well as the employees of US Bank and Raley’s, for their cooperation during the response.

According to localcrimenews.com, Oretger was previously arrested twice in 2016 by Pittsburg Police for resisting, delaying or obstructing a peace officer and for an outstanding warrant.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Antioch Police Department at (925) 778-2441.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this arrest.

Police seek suspect for felony battery

By Lt. William Whitaker # 6155, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau

On Friday, March 13, 2026, at 5:42 p.m., Antioch police officers responded to the 700 block of W. 1st Street for a report of a physical fight in progress. While en route, officers were advised that one of the involved individuals had collapsed.

Upon arrival, officers located a 48-year-old man unconscious but breathing and immediately provided medical aid. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.

The victim never regained consciousness and was removed from life support on March 21, 2026.

The Antioch Police Department’s Investigations Bureau is actively investigating this incident. No additional information is being released at this time. The Investigations Bureau will provide updates as they become available.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact Detective Jeong at (925) 779-6933 or jjeong@antiochca.gov.

Will also deal with legal matters including the ongoing civil rights class action lawsuit, potential lawsuit with “significant exposure” and two cases; Measure W spending & Economic Development reports

By Allen D. Payton

During a Special Meeting before their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the Antioch City Council will discuss development of the 2026-27 Fiscal Year budget with a potential $13.5 to $14.1 million deficit. During their regular meeting the council members will also discuss approving an AI assistant for police dispatch, and receive reports on both Measure W spending, which has decreased the amount for police down to 65.4%, and economic development.

Closed Session, Lawsuits & Property Negotiations

But first, at 4:00 p.m., the Council will hold a Closed Session during which they will discuss the ongoing Trent Allen, et al. v. City of Antioch, et al., civil rights class action lawsuit that’s not yet completely settled. (See related articles here and here) They will also discuss a potential lawsuit described as, Significant Exposure to Litigation. The description for that agenda item reads, “The City is in receipt of information concerning facts and circumstances that might result in litigation against the City which are known to a potential plaintiff and that pertain to potential claims by the potential plaintiff against the City. Two cases.”

Finally, the Closed Session agenda item 3, the Council will enter into Real Property Negotiations with Lone Tree Golf & Event Center Manager Ron Parish for two properties, 4800 Golf Course Road and West 1st Street. The City owns both the Lynn House and the old Mayor Hard House on that street. UPDATE: Mayor Pro Tem Don Freitas and City PIO Jaden Baird later explained that including West 1st Street was a mistake and the negotiations are only about the golf and event center.

Budget Study Session

At 5:00 p.m., the Council will hold Special Meeting/Study Session on the 2026-27 Fiscal Year Budget Development. The City is facing a double-digit deficit of $13.5 million to $14.1 million depending if the council approves increasing the number of sworn police officers to 117.

AI Assistant for Police Dispatch

During their regular meeting, under the Consent Calendar Item J., the council will consider approving a Sole Source Agreement with Prepared to provide an AI assistive call taking system for the Police Department Dispatch Center for a two-year term, in an amount not to exceed $248,400 for Years 1 through 2, with an option to extend for three additional years.

According to the city staff report, “The Dispatch Center is currently operating with four Dispatcher vacancies out of 17 allocated positions (13 Dispatchers and 4 Leads), representing an approximately 24% vacancy rate.  Call demand remains consistently high. The Police Dispatch Center handled approximately 72,000 9-1-1 calls in both 2024 and 2025. Non-emergency call activity remained steady as well, at approximately 208,000 calls annually. In addition to phone call volume, the Police Department handled 86,185 calls for service incidents in 2025, including AQCRT (Community Response Team) calls, which require ongoing dispatch coordination beyond the initial intake.”

Assistive call taking technology is intended to support Dispatchers, not replace them with the following:

• Improve Service for Non-Emergency Callers and Reduce Hold Times
• Support Emergency Calls Through “Co-Pilot” Functionality
• Improve Documentation and Reduce Staff Time Spent on Records Requests
• Expand Language Access and Support DOJ (Department of Justice) MOA (Memorandum of Understanding) Obligations

Measure W Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee Annual Report

Under Consent Calendar agenda Item N. the Council will receive the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee Fiscal Year 2024-25 Annual Report on Measure W (1% Sales Tax). It will show the amount being spent on police has decreased from 80%, as originally intended, to now, just 65.4%.

Economic Development Update

In addition, according to the City staff report for agenda item 7, the Council receive an update on the City’s Economic Development activities and progress, provide policy direction as appropriate, and offer feedback to staff on priorities and the timing of subsequent updates to the City Council. The matter is part of the Council’s 6-Month Priority list.

Meeting Details

The regular meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. The latter two meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at 200 H Street, or can be viewed via livestream on the City’s website or on Comcast cable TV channel 24 or AT&T U-verse channel 99.

See the complete meeting agenda packet.

100 riders involved

By Antioch Police Department

On Saturday, March 21, 2026, our Dispatch Center received multiple calls reporting a large group of approximately 50 dirt bikes and minibikes traveling throughout the city. Callers advised the group was riding recklessly, weaving in and out of traffic, and was being assisted by several vehicles blocking intersections.

Officers monitored the situation and used drones to track the group safely. When conditions allowed, officers made contact with several riders. Four mini bikes were towed and one additional dirt bike driver was cited.

According to Sgt. Rob Green, “The drivers ranged in age from 15 to 20 years old. Initially there were about 50 but it ended up being 100 riders involved. We could tell this was a mass organized event because a lot of them were in clothing that advertised it, called ‘Antioch Rideout 2026.’”

We are thankful for the community members who reported this activity and helped us respond quickly and safely. Reckless riding of this nature puts not only the participants at risk, but also other motorists, pedestrians, and families in our community.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

In response to allegations against the late farm workers’ union leader

By Juliet V. Casey Geary, Director of Marketing & Media Design, Los Medanos College

Greetings from Los Medanos College,

In light of recent news concerning César Chávez and allegations of abuse of women and minors, Los Medanos College (LMC) is reorienting the awards that honored his legacy to focus instead on the collective work and values that are being recognized to strengthen community, social justice, labor rights and leadership. Since 1995, LMC has honored generations of activists, service providers, educators, students and more. We are proud of that tradition and will continue to honor the leaders born out of East Contra Costa County’s agricultural community. This year we will offer La Fuerza del Pueblo: Farmworkers’ Movement Legacy Awards.

Honorees will receive recognition at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, in the Student Union Conference Center, 2700 E. Leland Road in Pittsburg. La Fuerza del Pueblo in English means the power of the people. This event recognizes community members who stand as models of service, activism and non-violent social change. This year’s award categories include: 

Exemplary Community Service

For long-standing commitment to service to others, sacrifice, helping the most needy, determination, non-violence, acceptance of all people, respect for life and the environment, celebrating community, knowledge, and innovation.

East County Educator Award

For demonstrating a commitment to student success and equity, particularly for students of color and those from low-income families.

La Fuerza del Pueblo Spirit Award

For emerging/student leader(s) who embodies the spirit of the movement, and who within the past year, made a significant impact on the local community in the areas of advocacy and social justice.

Legacy Award Values

• Service to Others: Empowering individuals by engendering self-determination, self-sufficiency and self-help, rather than charity.
• Sacrifice: Recognizing the obligation every individual has to contribute to their community, despite having to endure great hardship.
• Help the Most Needy: Supporting efforts to reach those in need, those dispossessed, and those most forgotten individuals.
• Determination: Instilling an attitude that through steadfast commitment, patience, and optimism, people can overcome great adversity. 
• Non-violence: Achieving social and economic justice and equality through bold and courageous action.
• Tolerance: Promoting and supporting ethnic and cultural diversity as a means toward informing and strengthening communities.
• Respect for Life: Holding land, people, and all other forms of life in the highest regard.
• Celebrating Community: Sharing expressions of cultural identity through art, song and dance.
• Knowledge: Pursuing self-directed learning, the development of critical thinking, and constructive problem-solving.
• Innovation: Creating strategies and tactics to resolve problems and situations that often seem insurmountable.

About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood.

Read the statement by the United Farm Workers about the allegations against Chávez.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Including Dispatcher & Civilian Employee of the Year and Distinguished Service & Life Saving Awards; Chief Vigil shares reasons each was honored

By Antioch Police Department

Monday night, March 8, 2026, the Antioch Police Department had the honor of recognizing several employees for their outstanding work and dedication to our community. Awards presented included Officer of the Year, Dispatcher of the Year, Civilian Employee of the Year, Distinguished Service Award and Life Saving Awards.

We also recognized Captain Desmond Bittner for his leadership and work with the SWAT Team, and Lieutenant William “Bill” Whitaker for his dedication to the K-9 Team.

During the ceremony, Chief Joe Vigil shared about each of the award winners and the reasons they were honored:

Officer of the Year – Officer Steven Miller

This nomination recognizes an officer whose exceptional work ethic, unwavering dedication to the Field Training Officer program, proactive policing style, and consistently high-quality investigative work have made a significant impact on the Antioch Police Department over the past year.

This officer consistently demonstrates a level of professionalism and commitment that exceeds the expectations of the position. Their work ethic is evident in daily performance, reliability, and a willingness to take initiative without prompting. Every assignment is approached with focus, accountability, and a strong sense of responsibility, setting a positive example for peers and newer officers alike.

As a Field Training Officer, this individual has shown outstanding dedication to developing the next generation of officers. They take the responsibility of training seriously, investing the time and effort necessary to ensure that trainees are not only competent, but confident, ethical, and officer-safe. Their ability to teach, mentor, and lead by example has had a direct and positive impact on the overall quality of officers entering solo patrol.

This officer is also recognized as extremely proactive in the field. Rather than waiting for problems to arise, they actively seek out criminal activity, identify patterns and trends, and take enforcement action that enhances public safety. This proactive mindset has resulted in numerous arrests, significant seizures, and meaningful law enforcement contacts that may not have occurred without their initiative and awareness.

In addition, this officer has developed a strong reputation for the preparation and execution of search warrants. Their warrants are thorough, articulate, and legally sound, reflecting a strong understanding of case law and investigative procedure. Attention to detail and a commitment to constitutional policing have contributed to successful investigations and prosecutions while minimizing risk to the department.

In every aspect of their work whether mentoring new officers, proactively policing the community, or conducting detailed investigative work this officer exemplifies the professionalism, dedication, and leadership that define the best of our department.

For these reasons, it is my honor to recognize this year’s Officer of the Year Steven Miller.

Dispatcher of the Year – Autumn Turnage

It is my honor for Dispatcher of the Year in recognition of an individual whose professionalism, sound judgment, and dedication to public safety have made a profound impact on the department and the community. Dispatchers serve as the critical first point of contact in emergencies, often managing life-and-death situations while ensuring officer safety in rapidly evolving circumstances. The individual being recognized today exemplifies the very best of this profession.

On Christmas Eve of 2024, while working a 16-hour shift, this dispatcher answered a 911 call from a man whose boat had sunk, leaving him stranded in the water and fearing for his life. Over the course of nearly an hour, the dispatcher remained on the line as a steady voice during an extremely emotional and frightening situation. The caller repeatedly stated he could not feel his legs, believed he was going to die, and asked that his father and sister be told that he loved them.

Throughout the call, the dispatcher coordinated critical information between multiple agencies, including GPS coordinates and Rapid Deploy location pings, in order to assist the Coast Guard in locating the victim. While maintaining calm and reassurance for the caller, the dispatcher carried the heavy weight of knowing that time was running out. At 12:02 a.m. on Christmas morning, the Coast Guard successfully rescued the man and brought him safely to shore. The rescue later received regional and national media attention, highlighting the dispatcher’s role in saving a life.

In addition to these extraordinary incidents, this dispatcher serves as one of the department’s top Communications Training Officers and has been instrumental in the development of new dispatch personnel. Known for patience, thoroughness, and an approachable personality, this individual creates an environment where trainees feel comfortable asking questions and learning the complexities of the profession. In 2025 alone, this dispatcher trained three new dispatchers over a period of approximately six months.

Through professionalism, dedication, and a genuine commitment to helping others, this individual has made a lasting impact on the department, the officers in the field, and the community they serve. Their work reflects the highest standards of the communications profession.

For consistent excellence, extraordinary performance under pressure, and a deep commitment to public safety, it is my honor to recognize this year’s Dispatcher of the Year Autumn Turnage.

Civilian Employee of the Year – Crime Analyst Mike Raney

It is my honor to present for Civilian of the Year in recognition of an individual whose exceptional dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment have made a significant impact on the mission of the Antioch Police Department.

Serving as a Crime Analyst, this individual consistently performs far beyond the expectations of the position. During a year marked by staffing shortages and increased operational demands, they stepped up without hesitation to ensure that critical investigative and analytical functions continued without disruption. Their initiative and work ethic directly contributed to the success of numerous investigations and helped maintain the overall effectiveness of the department.

Over the past year alone, this person completed more than 100 cellular phone extractions, providing vital digital evidence that proved instrumental in multiple criminal cases. In addition, they authored more than 50 search warrants, demonstrating both strong technical expertise and a thorough understanding of legal standards. Their work has helped investigators obtain timely and lawful access to crucial evidence in complex investigations.

Beyond these measurable accomplishments, what truly sets this individual apart is a willingness to do whatever is needed to support the department. Whether assisting detectives, supporting patrol operations, handling time-sensitive requests, or stepping in to help with responsibilities outside the normal scope of their duties, this person consistently answers the call. Their reliability, adaptability, and problem-solving skills have made them an indispensable resource and a trusted partner to sworn personnel.

While much of this work happens behind the scenes, its impact is anything but hidden. The efforts of this individual have had a direct and lasting effect on public safety, case solvability, and the overall success of the department. Their dedication exemplifies the highest standards of service and reflects great credit upon themselves and the Antioch Police Department.

For extraordinary contributions, selfless commitment, and outstanding performance, it is my honor to recognize this year’s Civilian of the Year Michael Raney.

Distinguished Service Award – Detective Geoffrey Morris

Detective Geoffrey Morris is recognized for his decisive actions, determination, and leadership during the pursuit and apprehension of an attempted residential burglary suspect on December 30, 2025.

At approximately 0950 hours, patrol units responded to reports of a male suspect moving through residential backyards and attempting to break into a home. The suspect was actively fleeing from officers and had already escalated his behavior by attempting to force entry into an occupied residence. As the suspect continued to move rapidly through neighborhood properties, his actions created an ongoing threat to the safety of local residents.

Detective Morris responded to assist patrol officers and actively participated in the search and containment efforts as updates indicated the suspect was continuing to evade law enforcement. During the operation, officers broadcast information that the suspect had fled into a large open field accessed from Empire Mine Road. When Detective Morris arrived at the location, he immediately identified a locked gate that prevented vehicle access into the area. The gate was secured with a heavy chain and multiple locks anchored by cemented posts, and the surrounding terrain prevented officers from bypassing the barrier with their vehicles. This obstacle created a significant operational challenge and provided the suspect with a critical opportunity to increase distance and escape into open terrain.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation and the importance of maintaining containment, Detective Morris took immediate action. Using physical force, he defeated the chain and locking mechanism, causing one of the locks to fail and allowing officers to open the gate. His quick and decisive action restored access to Empire Mine Road and enabled responding units to rapidly enter the field and continue the search. Without Detective Morris’s intervention, officers would have been significantly delayed at a crucial moment, greatly increasing the likelihood that the suspect would have escaped.

Shortly after officers gained access to the area, the suspect was located along a dirt path, visibly exhausted and soaked from running through wet terrain. Detective Morris immediately climbed over a four-foot barbed-wire style fence and safely took the suspect into custody without further incident, placing him in handcuffs and maintaining control through proper officer safety procedures.

Detective Morris demonstrated exceptional initiative, determination, and leadership throughout the incident. By recognizing a critical obstacle, acting immediately to overcome it, and decisively taking the suspect into custody in challenging terrain, he directly influenced the successful outcome of the operation. His actions reflect a high level of professionalism and dedication to the safety of the community.

For his outstanding performance and commitment to service, Detective Geoffrey Morris is deserving of the Distinguished Service Award.

Life Saving Award – Officer Kyle Smith

On March 18, 2023, Officer Kyle Smith to 137 Wilbur Avenue after an 11-year-old reporting party called 9-1-1 requesting immediate help for an assault in progress.

Upon arrival, Officer Smith encountered a rapidly evolving emergency. Outside the residence he observed clear signs of a violent attack, including a large amount of blood and a knife leading to the open apartment door.

Officer Smith immediately made entry and located multiple victims inside the apartment, including two juveniles, 14-year-old Oscar and 11-year-old Yaret both suffering from stab wounds. Officer Smith quickly assessed the victims and recognized that Oscar had sustained the most critical injuries, including a large open wound to the back near the left shoulder blade with significant bleeding and exposed tissue. Understanding the life-threatening nature of the injury and the urgency of the moment, Officer Smith retrieved his medical kit and immediately began lifesaving measures. He exposed the wound, packed it with gauze, and applied firm direct pressure while closely monitoring Oscar’s condition until emergency medical personnel arrived and assumed care.

Due to the severity of his injuries, Oscar was airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Oakland and was later listed in critical condition. Officer Smith’s immediate and decisive trauma care controlled the bleeding during the most critical moments following the assault and may have been the determining factor in the victim’s survival.

Despite the chaotic and emotionally charged environment, Officer Smith remained composed and continued his duties by obtaining an immediate suspect identification and broadcasting the suspect’s name over the radio. This information proved critical in assisting responding officers, ultimately leading to the suspect’s apprehension following a lengthy high-speed pursuit.

Officer Smith’s actions demonstrated exceptional judgment, composure under extreme pressure, and decisive lifesaving intervention during a critical incident involving severely injured juvenile victims. His swift medical response directly contributed to stabilizing a critically injured child prior to advanced medical treatment.

Officer Kyle Smith’s courage, professionalism, and commitment to protecting the lives of others exemplify the highest standards of the Antioch Police Department and make him deserving of the Life Saving Award. (See related articles here and here)

Life Saving Awards – Sergeant Robert Green and Detective Geoffrey Morris

On February 8, 2024, at approximately 1815 hours, officers with the Antioch Police Department responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting that a vehicle had driven into the Antioch Marina boat ramp and had become submerged with the driver still inside.

Sergeant Green and Detective Morris were the first to arrive on scene and immediately observed the vehicle several yards out in the water, with the interior already completely flooded. Without hesitation and recognizing the imminent danger to the trapped occupant, both officers entered the cold water to attempt a rescue.

Upon reaching the vehicle, they discovered an unresponsive female driver inside, facedown and trapped within the submerged car. The vehicle’s doors were locked, preventing immediate access. Acting quickly, Detective Morris used a rescue tool to break a window while Sergeant Green positioned himself to remove the victim. Once the window was broken, Sergeant Green was able to pull the unconscious driver from the vehicle. Detective Morris then carried the victim out of the water and onto the boat ramp where she could receive further assistance.

After the rescue, Sergeant Green returned to the vehicle to ensure no additional occupants were inside. Citizens at the scene assisted by providing ropes to secure the vehicle and prevent it from drifting further into the Delta.

Due to the decisive actions, courage, and teamwork demonstrated by Sergeant Green and Detective Morris, the victim was successfully rescued and later regained consciousness. She was transported to a local hospital where she made a full recovery.

Their willingness to immediately place themselves in danger in order to save the life of another reflects the highest traditions of the Antioch Police Department and is worthy of recognition through the Life Saving Award.

We are incredibly proud of our team and grateful for their commitment to serving our community every day. Congratulations to all of the recipients!

Thank you all for your dedication and service!

BART, three Contra Costa County Public Works projects also honored

By City of Antioch

The City of Antioch’s Brackish Water Desalination Project continues to receive recognition across the engineering and public works community!

The project has been named a 2026 Project Award Winner by the American Public Works Association (APWA) Northern California Chapter. Antioch’s desal plant was one of eight projects in Contra Costa County, including three Public Works projects, honored at the 2026 Project Awards Luncheon in Vallejo on March 5th.

A total of 25 projects were nominated and 15 received an award, including BART and seven others in Contra Costa County. All winners will be moving on to the APWA National at Public Works Expo 2026 in Houston, TX in August for consideration.

The APWA Northern California Chapter is a dynamic and engaged community of professionals dedicated to advancing the goals and mission of our association at the local level. The chapter is an integral part of the larger APWA network, representing a vibrant community of professionals in Northern California. We are committed to fostering professional growth, facilitating meaningful connections, and promoting excellence within the industry.

ACEC California Engineering Excellence Award

Public Works Director Scott Buenting and Water Treatment Plant Superintendent Marcus Woodland were presented last month with an Engineering Excellence Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of California (ACEC). Carollo Engineers of Walnut Creek submitted the Antioch project for consideration which received a ACEC California Merit Award.

The ACEC California’s annual Engineering Excellence Awards competition recognizes outstanding achievements in engineering and land surveying projects completed by California firms. Entries are accepted into one of 12 project categories: studies, research and consulting engineering services; building/technology systems; structural systems; surveying and mapping technology; environmental; waste and storm water; water resources; transportation; special projects; small projects; energy; and industrial and manufacturing processes and facilities. 

Projects were recognized for demonstrating an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement, and value. Twenty projects earned the prestigious Honor Award distinction, twenty-seven were recognized with Merit Awards, and fifteen Commendation Awards were granted.

“We are proud to recognize these ACEC California firms for delivering an exceptional degree of value and technical excellence to our communities,” said Tyler Munzing, Executive Director of ACEC California. “Quality infrastructure—from dependable drinking water to safe, efficient roadways and structurally sound public spaces—is essential to our state’s success. These award-winning projects showcase how our engineering and land surveying firms are passionately building a more resilient and connected California.”

The awards were announced at the Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet on February 19, 2026. The annual celebration is also a fundraiser for the ACEC California Scholarship Foundation 501(c)3, which provides scholarship awards to graduate and undergraduate students who are recognized for their notable and outstanding academic achievements.

These recognitions highlight the expertise and dedication of the team working to deliver safe, reliable water for our community.

Learn more about the awards:

2026 Projects of the Year Award – APWA Northern California Chapter

2026 Engineering Excellence Award Winners – American Council of Engineering Companies of California Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.