Today, Tuesday, December 22, 2015, Diane Burgis, an East Bay Regional Parks District Trustee, representing Antioch and other parts of East County, announced her candidacy for Contra Costa County Supervisor in District 3.

“New opportunities sometimes come when you least expect them,” said Diane Burgis.  “After discussion with my children, Supervisor Mary Piepho and supporters, I have decided to run for Supervisor.”

Current District 3 Supervisor, Piepho announced on Monday that she will not seek a fourth term in next June’s election.  Today she announced her support for Burgis stating, “I recruited Diane Burgis to succeed me on the Board of Supervisors because she is a leader in our community who possesses intelligence, integrity and compassion.  As executive director of Friends of the Marsh Creek Watershed and a trustee on the East Bay Regional Parks District Board, Diane has an excellent understanding of Delta water issues and the regional experience needed to serve the constituents of this district.  Diane is the most qualified person to succeed me on the Board of Supervisors.”

“I believe I will bring new approaches and a fresh perspective to issues before the Board of Supervisors,” said Burgis.  “My priorities are to actively represent all parts of the District and provide fiscal accountability and transparency, ensure public safety, promote economic development and job creation for East County residents, and develop solutions to reduce traffic and improve infrastructure.”

Burgis was elected last year to the East Bay Regional Parks District Board and is the Executive Director of Friends of the Marsh Creek Watershed. She currently serves on the Regional Planning Committee of the Association of Bay Area Governments. Prior to her election to the Parks District Board, Diane served on the Oakley City Council for two years, where she represented Contra Costa County on the Delta Protection Commission.  Diane was named 2012 California State Assembly’s Woman of the Year for District 15 for her work with Friends of Marsh Creek Watershed and her other contributions to the community.

Burgis spent over 10 years as owner of a small business that provided mobile fleet services to businesses. She has been actively involved in raising money and awareness for Tuberous Sclerosis for over 16 years and previously served as Chairperson for the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance of Northern California.

Burgis and her three teen-aged sons live in Oakley.

Oakley Councilman and former Mayor Doug Hardcastle, who announced his campaign for Supervisor in September and Odessa LeFrancois, the President of the NAACP East County Branch, who announced her candidacy with an entry in the Antioch Veterans Day Parade in November, are the only other candidates in the race, so far. Filing for the seat opens in February and closes in March. The election is in June, 2016. However, if no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, the top two candidates face off in the General election in November, 2016.

Today, Monday, December 21, 2015, County Supervisor Mary Piepho, who represents District 3 on the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors, announced she will not seek reelection for a fourth term, next year. I want to applaud Mary on her decision and thank her for her service to the people of Contra Costa County, over the past 11 years.

While I have had differences with her over policy and some of her votes, we have served together well on the transportation boards serving East County, on which she has helped move forward the planned Tri-Link freeway and transit connection between Brentwood and Tracy. Mary has also helped lead the fight to protect the Delta, which is important to all of us who depend on it for our drinking water, as well as fishing and recreation.

As I stated when I launched my campaign in September, it’s time for new leadership in our county. I thank Supervisor Piepho for ensuring that will happen for the people of the Third District. Serving in public office should not be a career, but should be a place where average citizens can serve the people, for a time. If I’m elected, following Mary’s example, I pledge to serve no more than three terms on the Board of Supervisors, as well.

I wish Mary well and God’s blessings in her future endeavors.

Doug Hardcastle serves on the Oakley City Council and just completed a year as Mayor. From 2000 to 2012 he served as a Director for the Ironhouse Sanitary District, for which he served as President in 2011-2012. He and his wife Lyn own Hardcastle’s RV in Oakley. He’s a life-long resident of Contra Costa County. District 3 includes Oakley, Brentwood, Discovery Bay, Blackhawk, Camino Tassajara, Diablo, Byron, Bethel Island, Knightsen and parts of Antioch.

For more information about Hardcastle’s campaign for Supervisor, visit www.doughardcastle.com.

Contra Costa County Supervisor Mary Piepho, who represents part of Antioch in District 3, announced, Monday, she will not run for reelection to a fourth term, next year.

In a statement released by her office and posted on her campaign website, today, Piepho wrote:

“After significant and thoughtful deliberation, I have made a very difficult, personal decision and decided not to pursue re-election in 2016. At this point in my life I am ready to greet new challenges, welcome new opportunities and spend more time with my family doing things that we enjoy.

I have served on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors for nearly three terms and these years have been the most fulfilling of my career.   Saving lives and saving taxpayer dollars are the most rewarding achievements of my career and I have done both.

I am honored to have earned the trust and confidence from the citizens and business leaders of this County who have supported me to make tough decisions on their behalf and together build a better Contra Costa County.

When I took office in January, 2005 I had a lot of optimism, energy and many fresh ideas. After a lot of hard work and sacrifice, I’m proud to say my personal goals have been met; transportation, finance, public safety and the environment (a short list is detailed at the end of this message).

We have a diverse County with a lot of needs and I’ve done my best to work collaboratively with my colleagues and stakeholders to balance those needs. Not only for District III but for the greater needs of all Contra Costa citizens and taxpayers.

A lot has been accomplished in a relatively short period of time, especially with consideration of the financial and social impacts from the Great Recession.

My goals could not have been achieved without my dedicated office staff, our County Administrator David Twa and all County personnel. Much of what I’ve accomplished is directly attributed to these many hands involved in the heavy lifting.

My father, the late State Senator John A. Nejedly, always said to me to make sure you leave the world better than the way you found it. As I look back on my service to this County, I believe I’ve done that. I hope the citizens of Contra Costa will agree that Contra Costa County is in a much better, more secure place now than it was 12 years ago.

A County Supervisors’ job is one that is never done. It is never completed. And while I have listed many accomplishments below, there is always more work to do. I look forward to a busy and productive 2016 on the Board of Supervisors and continuing to work hard serving the citizens of this great County, region and State.

For the next year I will work on the 2016 goals outlined below, and more. Stay tuned and many thanks to everyone who has joined me for this wonderful experience.

Here are a few highlights of my accomplishments:

• Refocused our County finances to fund public safety as a top priority. The Sheriffs’ Department and District Attorney’s office are cornerstones to this accomplishment.
• Addressing and funding our Other Post Employment Benefit (OPEB) liability, which was $2.6 billion when I joined the Board and is now under $800 million.
• Created the Vasco Road Safety Corridor and saving lives with lane dividing delineators, safety realignment and roadway widening. This effort continues to be a work in progress.
• Stopped depending on County reserves to balance our budget and have rebuilt our reserves with new policies to protect them.
• 2015/2016 brought our fifth structurally balanced budget in a row and increased reserves of $220 million. This positions us well to achieve long term fiscal sustainability for the benefit of taxpayers.
• Grown from a declining AA rating to a glowing AAA credit rating from Standard & Poor’s. We worked hard to achieve this and there is no higher rating available.
• Highway 4 widening is nearly complete, 8 lanes to the Antioch/Nejedly Bridge in 2016.
• EBart stations are being built to Pittsburg and Antioch with studies for a Brentwood station.
• Highway 4 Bypass project nearly complete creating improved vehicle access and safety and economic development for Far East County allowing families to spend more time together.
• Designed and implemented policies that open up economic opportunities and future potential for our farmers and agricultural lands with value-added marketing and wine and olive processing. We now have nationally recognized award winning wines and olive oils from Contra Costa County.
• My Delta advocacy has been very personal to me. My father, the late State Senator John A. Nejedly, is well known for his leadership fighting against then Gov. Jerry Brown and his Peripheral Canal in 1980-1982 and I have found myself fighting against the 21st century version known as the “Twin Tunnels” and the same/new Gov. Jerry Brown.
• Lead the creation of the Delta County Coalition (DCC) to protect Delta Counties against state and federal politics that protect south Delta water exporters over in-Delta interests. I knew from my dad’s fight against the Peripheral Canal that the Delta Counties needed to stand strong together in order to be effective. And we have.
• Fought for Delta solutions that protect and enhance our Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta from further degradation, environmental harm and advocated for affordable and reasonable solutions that actually create water for all Californians.
• Sought and achieved in the 2009 Delta Reform Act a stronger Delta Protection Commission, creation of the Delta Conservancy and a seat on the newly formed Delta Stewardship Council for a Delta County Supervisor.
• Created the “No Tow Zone” for Delta waterway safety. While this was considered controversial by a few, it has made an enormous impact on saving lives and raising awareness in a very dangerous and congested area of the Delta.
• Lead the successful efforts for greater funding and treatment to fight invasive aquatic weeds in the Delta (egeria dense, water hyacinth, etc.).
• Acquired property in Brentwood for an East County Government Center to deliver County services locally for East Contra Costa County citizens.
• Leading policy and economic development efforts for the Byron Airport to grow jobs and economic development in East County.
• Leading the effort to study Route 239/TriLink connecting Brentwood and Tracy with a proposed expressway, particularly a Vasco Road to J4 connector.
• Fought for improved Veteran support services Countywide; supported funding for improvement to the Brentwood VFW Hall and lead the effort to transfer the Danville Veterans Hall to the Town of Danville.
• Lead the ban on medical marijuana dispensaries in unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County.
• Implemented Laura’s Law, a California state law that allows for court-ordered assisted outpatient treatment for those with serious mental illness.
• Lead efforts to create an opportunity for a more viable and sustainable East Contra Costa Fire Protection District.

Goals for 2016:

• Continue my advocacy for the Delta to preserve and protect Delta resources and fight against CalWaterFix
• Design and fund the East County Government Center in Brentwood
• Phase II of Vasco Road Safety Project, funding and construction
• Continue to work with local farmers in amending land uses within agriculturally zoned lands for greater flexibility and economic opportunity
• Market and promote Northern Waterfront Initiative (NWI) as a location to build green energy projects and other economic opportunities
• Short-term treatment and long-term management for invasive species and aquatic weeds in the Delta
• State Route 239/TriLink defined alignment and plan for development”

Washington, DC – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) issued the following statement on the FY2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill, which passed the House by a vote of 316 to 113, and includes $1.1 trillion in spending.

“This vote is the quintessential example of compromise. As Thomas Jefferson believed, the purpose and goal of an American politician oftentimes is the art of compromise. The Omnibus bill staves off devastating cuts that would kill jobs and weaken our economic growth and invests in education, renewable energy, infrastructure and research. For these reason, I voted in support of the Omnibus bill.

However, I was deeply disappointed that the bill did not make any advancements in reducing the influence of special interests. Seeing the influence of money in Washington, in my first year in Congress, has reinforced my belief that in order to change the things that challenge this country we have to moderate the amount and the influence of outside money in politics — from Congress all the way down to the city council.

Equally concerning is the fiscally irresponsible $622 billion tax extender package that is not paid for and will increase our deficit. This package largely benefits corporations at the expense of working families and undermines programs like Pell grants, Headstart, job training and health research. I could not support a package that mortgages our children’s future, reduces our payments on the nation’s debt and robs from the Social Security Trust Fund.”

DeSaulnier, a Democrat, represents parts of Antioch in the U.S. House of Representatives.

By Nick Goodrich

On Tuesday, December 15th, Diane Aguinaga – a longtime member of the Antioch Police Department – was promoted from Lieutenant to Captain, during a brief ceremony. Mayor Wade Harper was on hand to administer her oath of office.

“The fact that we can promote from within like this really speaks to the quality of the Antioch Police Department,” said Harper.

Captain Aguinaga has served with the department for 22 years. She is only the second female Captain in the history of its history.

Addressing those in attendance at Aguinaga’s promotion ceremony, Police Chief Allan Cantando described her as patient, caring, witty, and dedicated. He noted that she has a long history of dealing with mentally unstable residents.

“She likes them,” he said with a smile.

Aguinaga’s patience and compassion for everyone in the Antioch community will continue to be an asset to the APD, and Cantando said that it was “an honor” to promote her to his command staff.

The new Captain shared her appreciation for the promotion.

“I am deeply honored and grateful to have the trust of the chief and the community,” she said. “I love the citizens of this town who fight for and never give up on Antioch.”

State Assemblyman Jim Frazier was on hand to present a certificate of recognition to Aguinaga.

She replaces Leonard Orman, who recently retired as Captain, after more than 30 years with the department.

As published in City Manager Steve Duran’s Weekly Report dated December 10, 2015 and provided by Chief of Police Allan Cantando.

Service Call and Arrest Data Summary:

Time Period: 12/03/15 00:00:00 – 12/09/15 23:59:59

Number of Calls for Service: 1,509

Number of Case Reports: 305

Number of Arrests: 56

Felony: 26

Misdemeanor: 30

Arrests with DUI charge: 5

– On 12/9/2015 at 8:15 pm, officers responded to the area of the 4600 block of Golf Course Rd regarding a report of a Mercedes Benz driving erratically and almost colliding with several cars. Officers arrived and located the vehicle parked with 54 year old Sherri Brown behind the wheel exhibiting symptoms of intoxication. Brown refused to conduct field sobriety tests but did provide a breath sample via the PAS device which returned as 0.193% BAC. Brown was arrested for DUI and later released on a promise to appear after providing a blood sample.

– On 12/8/2015 at 10:12 am, an officer observed 33 year old Lawrence Wiley riding a motorized scooter on Sycamore Dr. near Manzanita Way. He was doing so on the wrong side of the road and without a helmet.  When officers attempted to stop him he parked the scooter and fled.  Wiley was quickly detained and he provided a stolen ID. The ID was obviously not his and he was identified via the mobile print reader. Wiley was arrested for providing false information to a police officer, using someone’s identity, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of probation. He was booked at the county jail.

– On 12/8/2015 at 9:33 am, officers responded to 2301 Sycamore Dr. regarding trespassers in an apartment. Officers determined several subjects had unlawfully entered a vacant apartment and begun taking up residence. This has been a continuous problem with this group of people, who were identified as 57 year old Tony Cotton, 33 year old Jamal McClinton, 53 year old Lawanda Washington, 48 year old Fredrick Perkins and 26 year old Rikia Asberry. The subjects were removed from the apartment without incident and issued promises to appear for trespassing.

– On 12/8/2015 at 5:29 am, an officer saw a suspicious vehicle parked in the dirt lot of 6600 Deer Valley Road.  The officer observed the vehicle pulling out of the dirt lot.  A records check indicated the vehicle was stolen.  The officer followed the vehicle while waiting for assisting units to arrive. The vehicle pulled into the Kaiser Hospital lot at 4501 Deer Valley Road and stopped. John Foster, 33 years old, was taken into custody without incident and later booked at the county jail on auto theft charges and violation of probation.

– On 12/8/2015 at 12:41 am, officers responded to 50 Worrell Rd. regarding a vehicle striking a pole and rolling over.  Officers arrived and contacted 49 year old Toby Pagnini who was the driver of the vehicle.  Pagnini had collided into a parked vehicle and then into a PG&E pole causing minor damage to the pole.  Officers determined Pagnini was under the influence of alcohol.  Breath tests showed his BAC was .24%.   Pagnini was arrested and booked at the county jail for DUI.

– On 12/7/2015 at 11:29 pm, officers responded to the ABC Rendezvous at 101 Walter Way regarding 30 year old Colin Nelson causing a disturbance at the bar. Officers arrived and located Nelson hiding behind a dumpster at Keep U Neat Cleaners.  Nelson was extremely intoxicated and arrested without incident for being drunk in public. He was booked at the county jail.

– On 12/7/2015 at 4:40 pm, an officer was driving through the CVS parking lot at 4028 Lone Tree Way and conducted a records check on a parked occupied vehicle. Dispatch advised the vehicle was reported stolen out of Antioch.  There were three occupants inside the vehicle identified as 29 year old Antione Rice, 36 year old Erick Galarza and 33 year old Antonia Buccellato. All three were arrested without incident.  Rice and Galarza were later released pending further investigation. Buccellato was booked at the county jail for auto theft.

– On 12/7/2015 at 9:48 pm, officers responded to the 7-11 store at 2700 Hillcrest Avenue regarding a robbery. The clerk reported a male, later identified as 31 year old Jamal Garrett had concealed beer in his pants pocket.  When the clerk confronted Garrett, Garrett threatened to shoot him.  Garrett fled on foot and a perimeter was established.  A police canine was used to track Garrett. The canine and officers located and apprehended Garrett hiding under a bus at the La Petite Academy parking lot.  Garrett was uncooperative and sustained puncture wounds to both legs. Garrett was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Garrett was later booked at the county jail on the charges of robbery and making threats.

– On 12/7/2015 at 2:33 pm, officers were dispatched to the apartment complex at 3126 Lone Tree Way due to residents calling dispatch and reporting that 53 year old Joe Dennis was on a rampage yelling and screaming from the front balcony.  Dennis was also threatening to burn down the complex.  Officers spoke to Dennis who was standing on the upper walkway in front of the doorway to his apartment. He refused to come down to the parking lot so officers went up to speak with him. The officers could hear a large dog inside the apartment and asked Dennis to shut the door.  Dennis refused and he remained uncooperative.  As the officers tried to speak with him Dennis quickly reached into the threshold of the doorway and grabbed for his Rottweiler mix.  Dennis held his dog by the neck and directed him to towards an officer releasing his grasp. The dog charged at the officer and bit at him twice.  As the dog was upon the officer, he drew his firearm and discharged two rounds downwards at the dog.  The dog immediately ran back into the apartment and Dennis was quickly detained.  Animal Control responded to the scene.  Officers entered the apartment conducting a protective sweep and the dog was impounded by Animal Control. The rounds were accounted for as was their trajectory.  Dennis was arrested for assault on an officer and a felony resisting arrest. He was booked at the county jail.

– On 12/7/2015 at 11:21 am, an officer saw 25 year old Nathan Watson loitering at the Jack in the Box on “A” St. The officer knew Watson from prior contacts and conducted a records check. The check revealed there was an outstanding no bail warrant for his arrest charging a violation of probation. The officer attempted to contact Watson who fled. The officer tackled Watson in front of the restaurant and pinned him to the ground until he complied with commands and stopped resisting. Watson was taken into custody and booked at the county jail. Neither the officer nor Watson reported injuries.

– On 12/6/2015 at 1:12 pm, officers responded to a shoplifter in custody at the Target store located at 5769 Lone Tree Way. Francesca Maufas, 28 years old, was detained by loss prevention for attempting to steal $1263.80 worth of merchandise. A records check indicated she had an outstanding arrest warrant issued out of Santa Clara County charging theft. She was booked at the county jail for theft as well as the warrant.

– On 12/5/2015 at 11:59 pm, an officer was patrolling in the area of Davison Dr. and  Lone Tree Way when he witnessed an Infiniti Q35 make a right turn and the rear end losing traction. The vehicle then accelerated to 50 MPH in a 35 MPH zone. The officer initiated an enforcement stop and contacted the driver, 24 year old Nicholas Steiner. Steiner exhibited symptoms of intoxication and was detained. After Field Sobriety Tests he and providing a breath sample on the PAS of 0.185% BAC, he was placed under arrest for DUI. Steiner was booked at the county jail where he provided a blood sample.

– On 12/5/2015 at 7:36 pm, officers responded to the 3400 block of Blue Jay Dr. regarding a vehicle striking a fire hydrant.  Upon arrival, officers located a silver Infinity G35 which had collided with the fire hydrant and a retaining wall.  The vehicle was found to be stolen out of Richmond. It was determined the driver and passenger fled prior to police arriving. During an inventory search of the vehicle, a ballistic vest was located in the trunk. Witnesses observed a male and female running from the vehicle.

– On 12/5/2015 at 3:54 am, officers responded to the 4500 block of Wolf Way regarding a hit and run collision. The investigation determined 20 year old Alexandria Blackwell was driving a Toyota Scion when she collided into the rear of a parked Toyota Tundra. Upon impact, the Tundra was moved approximately 50 feet. The Scion rolled over and came to rest on its roof. Blackwell was not ejected. Blackwell fled from the scene prior to officers arriving. She was contacted at her residence and had suffered a small laceration to her head. She was arrested for Hit and Run as well as DUI and taken to Kaiser for treatment. She was later cited released on the charges. Both vehicles were totaled.

– On 12/5/2015 at 2:15 am, officers responded to the 2400 block of Diablo Ave. regarding a “911” call of an assault . While investigating the assault, it was determined 28 year old Joseph Cardoza had an outstanding arrest warrant with a $10,000 bail charging DUI. Cardoza was arrested without incident and booked at the county jail.

– On 12/4/2015 at 7:26 pm, officers were dispatched to 4501 Montara Dr. regarding a burglary in progress.  The reporting party stated several subjects were seen loading items into a U-Haul truck in the driveway and were not known to the area.  Upon arrival, officers located two males putting large black trash bags into the rear of the U-Haul.  One of the bags contained marijuana. Christopher Karopoluos (25), Cameron Guthrie (28), Francisco Rodriguez-Amexcua (41), Francisco Nunez (27), and Jose Ramirez-Green were detained on the premises. Officers located evidence of a recent marijuana grow which appeared was in the process of being dismantled. The subjects detained were arrested and booked for cultivation of marijuana and later released pending further investigation.

– On 12/4/2015 at 9:55 am, officers responded to the 2800 block of Center Ln. regarding a subject trespassing in a backyard and being inside the home. When they arrived, officers contacted the caller, 43 year old Israel Navarro. It was determined he was under the influence of a controlled substance and no intruders existed. Officers located methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in the home. Navarro was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and being under the influence of a controlled substance. He was booked at the county jail.

– On 12/3/2015 at 9:19 pm, an officer conducted a traffic stop on E.18th St. at Hillcrest Ave. for expired registration. Susan Ornellas, 37 years old, was contacted during a traffic enforcement stop and a records check indicated she was on probation with a search cause. A search was conducted and a small plastic bag containing methamphetamine located. Ornellas was arrested and later released on a promise to appear for possession of a controlled substance.

– On 12/3/2015 at 12:08 pm, officers responded to the report of a robbery at W.6th and “A” streets. The investigation revealed the 51 year old victim was approached by 29 year old Arthur Castro, 29 year old Matthew Ellis and 19 year old Jacob Sahagon. Castro punched the victim in the face and he fell to the ground.  All three subjects began assaulting the victim while he was on the ground.  The subjects brandished a knife and then stole the victim’s bicycle and cash from his person before fleeing down the railroad tracks towards the Fulton Shipyard area.  The victim sustained swelling and bruising to his face and a cut to his nose, but declined medical treatment. Sahagon and Castro were located hiding in the marsh area between Fulton Shipyard Rd and Wilbur Ave.  They were both identified by the victim and arrested.  Ellis was not located but was identified by the victim.  Probable cause was issued for his arrest.

The data is based upon unaudited CAD/RMS data at time of report generation.

The following report, for the same time period, is available at www.crimereports.com –

Vehicle Recovery	12/09/2015 11:44 PM	3300 Block BUCHANAN RD AND SOMERSVILLE RD	15012319	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/09/2015 04:51 PM	1600 Block A ST AND W 17TH ST	15012304	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/09/2015 04:00 PM	700 Block W 18TH ST AND L ST	15012340	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/09/2015 02:00 PM	2500 Block AUBURN LN AND GEORGETOWN LN	15012313	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/09/2015 01:18 PM	1400 Block W 6TH ST AND O ST	15012293	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Breaking & Entering	12/09/2015 04:30 AM	1 Block E 13TH ST AND BEVERLY ST	15012315	BURGLARY RESIDENCE – 459 PC	Antioch Police Department
Breaking & Entering	12/09/2015 04:00 AM	2100 Block BANYAN WY AND SYCAMORE DR	15012305	BURGLARY RESIDENCE – 459 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/08/2015 10:00 PM	2900 Block CARMONA WY AND LUCENA WY	15012279	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/08/2015 09:30 PM	CONTRA LOMA BL AND LONGVIEW RD	15012259	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/08/2015 09:00 PM	2200 Block WASHINGTON WY AND JEFFERSON WY	15012308	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/08/2015 08:49 PM	3100 Block LONE TREE WY AND ROBERT ST	15012258	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/08/2015 08:30 PM	600 Block SHADDICK DR AND HARBOUR DR	15012277	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/08/2015 07:30 PM	2700 Block E TREGALLAS RD AND LONE TREE WY	15012274	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/08/2015 06:38 PM	200 Block W 4TH ST AND C ST	15012253	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Breaking & Entering	12/08/2015 05:28 PM	100 Block W 10TH ST AND C ST	15012247	BURGLARY RESIDENCE – 459 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/08/2015 02:20 PM	300 Block L ST AND W 3RD ST	15012245	IDENTITY THEFT CASES	Antioch Police Department
Robbery	12/08/2015 11:07 AM	3400 Block DEER VALLEY RD AND DAVISON DR	15012227	ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTS	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/08/2015 09:56 AM	3100 Block CONTRA LOMA BL AND LONGVIEW RD	15012237	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/08/2015 07:50 AM	BOND CT AND HARBOUR DR	15012249	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/08/2015 05:00 AM	2900 Block MELON CT AND SEQUOIA DR	15012216	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/08/2015 05:00 AM	3600 Block E 18TH ST AND HWY 4 HY	15012252	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/08/2015 12:00 AM	3900 Block DELTA FAIR BL AND FAIRVIEW DR	15012236	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Robbery	12/07/2015 09:37 PM	2700 Block HILLCREST AV AND E TREGALLAS RD	15012210	ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTS	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/07/2015 08:30 PM	2200 Block PINENUT WY AND VIERA AV	15012311	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/07/2015 08:00 PM	1000 Block CLAUDIA CT AND L ST	15012221	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Breaking & Entering	12/07/2015 07:30 PM	3100 Block ALMONDRIDGE DR AND ALMOND TREE CT	15012388	BURGLARY AUTO – 459A PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/07/2015 06:41 PM	3400 Block HUDSON CT AND FAIRVIEW DR	15012209	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Breaking & Entering	12/07/2015 06:00 PM	2400 Block SHADOW LN AND DOGWOOD WY	15012215	BURGLARY RESIDENCE – 459 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/07/2015 04:57 PM	700 Block W 18TH ST AND L ST	15012204	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/07/2015 04:10 PM	L ST AND SYCAMORE DR	15012202	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/07/2015 02:12 PM	4500 Block DELTA FAIR BL AND CENTURY BL	15012212	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/07/2015 12:16 PM	3000 Block G ST AND DONHAM CT	15012193	THEFT – GRAND – 487 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/07/2015 12:14 AM	2000 Block SOMERSVILLE RD AND HWY 4 HY	15012180	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/07/2015 12:00 AM	2000 Block LOPEZ DR AND SEVILLE CIR	15012243	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/06/2015 08:57 PM	2600 Block SOMERSVILLE RD AND BRADLEY LN	15012175	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/06/2015 07:02 PM	100 Block E 18TH ST AND EVERGREEN AV	15012166	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/06/2015 02:32 PM	2600 Block SOMERSVILLE RD AND FAIRVIEW DR	15012161	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/06/2015 02:00 PM	3400 Block DEER VALLEY RD AND DAVISON DR	15012160	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/06/2015 12:02 PM	3300 Block BUCHANAN RD AND SOMERSVILLE RD	15012155	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/06/2015 01:16 AM	2700 Block HILLCREST AV AND E TREGALLAS RD	15012149	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/06/2015 12:48 AM	300 Block BURBANK RD AND GARROW DR	15012148	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/05/2015 10:00 PM	900 Block W 6TH ST AND K ST	15012152	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/05/2015 07:14 PM	1000 Block W 7TH ST AND K ST	15012141	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/05/2015 06:00 PM	2900 Block CARMONA WY AND LUCENA WY	15012206	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Breaking & Entering	12/05/2015 03:36 PM	2500 Block SONORA LN AND AUBURN LN	15012136	BURGLARY RESIDENCE – 459 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/05/2015 03:26 PM	3100 Block TALBOT WY AND NEAH CT	15012254	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/05/2015 12:00 PM	300 Block L ST AND HWY 4 HY	15012129	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/05/2015 08:15 AM	600 Block W TREGALLAS RD AND SAN JOAQUIN AV	15012125	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/05/2015 05:00 AM	2900 Block EL PASO WY AND MISSION DR	15012131	THEFT – GRAND – 487 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault with Deadly Weapon	12/05/2015 02:15 AM	2400 Block DIABLO AV AND SUNSET DR	15012122	ASSAULT, AGRAVATED – 245 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/05/2015 12:30 AM	2400 Block CROCKER WY AND SILVEROAK WY	15012134	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department
Assault with Deadly Weapon	12/05/2015 12:25 AM	1 Block WILBUR AV AND A ST	15012121	ASSAULT, AGRAVATED – 245 PC	Antioch Police Department
Breaking & Entering	12/04/2015 02:00 PM	4500 Block REIMCHE DR AND SHEPPARD WY	15012114	BURGLARY RESIDENCE – 459 PC	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/04/2015 12:13 PM	1700 Block PUTNAM ST AND JACKSON PL	15012101	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/04/2015 11:45 AM	100 Block PLEASANT PL AND ALMOND ST	15012099	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/04/2015 11:42 AM	300 Block L ST AND W 3RD ST	15012098	IDENTITY THEFT CASES	Antioch Police Department
Assault with Deadly Weapon	12/04/2015 03:29 AM	2400 Block L ST AND LEMONTREE WY	15012088	ASSAULT, AGRAVATED – 245 PC	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/03/2015 09:30 PM	2000 Block SAN JOSE DR AND VERMONT LN	15012079	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Assault	12/03/2015 07:22 PM	300 Block LAWTON ST AND D ST	15012074	ASSAULT, SIMPLE – 243 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/03/2015 06:00 PM	1800 Block A ST AND W 20TH ST	15012075	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/03/2015 05:08 PM	900 Block ORCHARD LN AND SHADY LN	15012069	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Vehicle Recovery	12/03/2015 05:06 PM	2400 Block SEQUOIA DR AND REDWOOD DR	15012077	AUTO RECOVERED – STOLEN	Antioch Police Department
Robbery	12/03/2015 12:08 PM	W 6TH ST AND A ST	15012059	ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTS	Antioch Police Department
Theft	12/03/2015 08:32 AM	1 Block E 18TH ST AND A ST	15012076	THEFT – PETTY – 488 PC	Antioch Police Department
Theft of Vehicle	12/03/2015 06:00 AM	1000 Block PUTNAM ST AND MISSION DR	15012051	AUTO THEFT – 10851 VC	Antioch Police Department

By Allen Payton

Muslims, Jews, Catholics, including three Francisco Friars in monk robes, and other Christians joined together on Sunday, December 13th, at the Islamic Center of East Bay in Antioch, at an open house meeting and vigil, and to say prayers for the victims of the massacre in San Bernardino, earlier this month.

In an email invitation to Antioch Mayor Wade Harper and Council Members, Mohammad Chaudhry, President of the Center condemned the killings.

“The Muslims associated with the Islamic Center of East Bay, Antioch, Ca are holding an Open House Meeting and Vigil in the memory of the senseless killings of 14 innocent people, and the wounding of 27 at San Bernardino, Ca.,” he wrote. “They wholeheartedly condemn the massacre of these victims, and they share the grief and sorrow of the bereaved families. As a mark of solidarity with the departed souls, Islamic Center of East Bay, Antioch, Ca shall hold this Open House Meeting…at the Center. You are requested to join us in prayers for the deceased, and for peace in America, and everywhere.”

Signs across the front of the room had messages the Islamic Center members want the community to know.

“I love America as much as you do,” stated one of the signs. “Every inch a proud American,” stated another. “America stands for values not hatred and division,” stated yet another.

Several speakers shared their thoughts and perspectives on what impact the San Bernardino killings have had on Muslims in Antioch and East County, the fear it has caused and what can be done to build better understanding and relationships.

Hamza Sultan, a 16-year-old Muslim and student at Heritage High School in Brentwood, read a variety of prepared statements.

“We must empower the gun control movement in America,” he said.

Sultan also had some tough words for those of his faith committing acts of terrorism. “Islamic extremists cherry pick from the Qur’an to justify their actions,” he stated. “If they would complete the sentence they would know the sins they have committed.”

“The killing of one human being is like the killing of all humanity,” Sultan continued. “The saving the life of one human being is the saving of all humanity. If the San Bernardino shooters would have realized the privileges they had in this country they would have lived lives of peace.”

“Using our First Amendment rights can enlighten…about the truth of Islam,” he added.
Sultan also spoke of the true definition of jihad, which means struggle, and includes on the battlefield.

He also mentioned and finished by mentioning “purifying ourselves. There’s no better place to do that than in the United States of America.”

His mother, local pediatrician, Dr. Sobia Sultan, who works for Kaiser in Antioch, shared her experience and concerns.

“I moved to this area, 10 years ago when the medical center was built, serving as a pediatrician,” she said. “This is a beautiful place. We have to do more interfaith work.”

“Due to circumstances beyond our control there is a change in the atmosphere,” Dr. Sultan shared. “A feeling of fear coming into our community.

“You don’t need to be fearful of me. I’m your friendly, neighborhood doctor,” she said to laughter from the audience.

“I have built a lot of bonds in the local community,” Dr. Sultan continued. “I have seen this beautiful community spirit here.”

“ISIS, what have you, added on by the fear mongering politicians and the media,” is causing “peace loving, good meaning people are scared of Muslims.”

“Is there anything we can do to push back against the atmosphere of fear,” she asked. “Open your homes, your hearts? Invite them in to pray.”

Dr. Sultan had shared concerns about the fear and challenges she and her family have experienced.

“We’re not afraid of buffoons like Donald Trump, but the 57% of the silent majority,” she stated. “Muslims are also fearful. Everything negative on the TV is associated with Islam. I worry about my children, our future. I want them to live in the America I came to 20 years ago. I want them to believe in E Pluribus Unum – out of many, one.  My children are being marginalized. They sometimes are called terrorists. Also when they don’t participate in things that others do.”

Dr. Sultan finished on a positive note saying, she was happy “that we’re not alone that there are others who stand with us in this subject.”

Antioch resident, Tabarak Mughal, spoke briefly.

“We are all Americans and we should all support the values of this country,” he stated.

Antioch Council Member Monica Wilson, followed him and offered her thoughts and comments to those in attendance.

“Thank you so much for this beautiful ceremony,” she stated, then quoted one of the signs on the wall behind her in agreement. “Please do not judge me without knowing me.”

“Let’s hold onto the positive spirit, the positive programs,” Wilson continued. “How do we push back this wall of hate? This is the beginning. How do we spread it to the broader community?”
“I’m really encouraged by the positive energy, today,” she added. “Let’s not make this a one-time thing.”

Finally, Chaudhry shared his closing thoughts.

He spoke of the fire that burned the Center in 2007.

“Wherever we go we go with our identity,” he said. “If we are not safe, here we are not safe anywhere. You can turn your adversity into prosperity. This is a place, a house of God. Come.”

“Unless I visit a church and hear the things they say, am I going to learn of their faith? Chaudhry asked. “We don’t have to wait for something bad to happen. We have to be the people who take the initiative.”

He then spoke of the people who were killed in San Bernardino “at no fault of their own,” then referred to the 11,000 people who have been killed in the U.S. each year, in the 14 years since 9-11. “Forty-five got killed by Muslims,” Chaudhry stated.

“True faith is what unites people,” he continued. “All people of faith, they approach God in their own way. We are all human beings. How come we divide people?”

He spoke of “the wisdom of the Founding Fathers.”

“Now I understand why they made this a secular country,” Chaudhry added. “Everyone tries to monopolize God. But he is the God of all. His ways are strange.”

He then encouraged those in attendance to do something to help foster understanding.

“This is not our cause. It’s your cause, too,” he finished.

The speeches were followed by a time of prayers in an adjacent room of the Center.

The Center is located at 314 W. 19th Street and fronts on West 18th Street. For more information call (925) 756-1652.

By Acting Lieutenant Tom Fuhrmann, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau

On Monday, December 14, 2015 at approximately 2:15 AM the Antioch Police Department received several calls that a person had been shot and the victim was in his residence in the 3200 block of Longview Road.  Officers responded and found the victim. a 24-year-old Antioch man, lying in his residence.  The victim was suffering from several gunshot wounds.  The officers rendered aid and summoned medical personnel to the scene.

The victim told officers that his female friend’s husband, Fernando Escobedo, a 23-year-old Bay Point resident, came into his residence and shot him. Officers determined from witnesses the identity of the responsible and a description of the vehicle he fled in.

Medical personnel arrived, provided medical aid, and transported the victim to a local hospital where he underwent medical treatment for the gunshot wounds and is expected to survive.

An Antioch Police Officer located Escobedo driving on State Route 160 and followed him onto State Route 4.  A high risk car stop was performed on west bound State Route 4 east of the Loveridge Road off ramp.  Escobedo was taken into custody without incident.  Escobedo will be transported to the Martinez Detention Facility and booked on charges of Attempted Murder, Burglary and a weapons enhancement with a total bail of $2,050,000. No further information will be released at this time.

There is no booking photo available at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to call Detective Vanderpool with the Antioch Police Department at (925) 779-6988. You may also text a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) using key word ANTIOCH.