Laptops and electronic equipment were stolen from the RRTH Learning Center last week. Photo: RRTH Learning Center
Police investigating, public asked for help
Fundraisers Sunday, June 28th and online
By RRTH Learning Center & RR Ministries
Our organization, RR Transitional Housing Learning Center, helps more than 250 students in Contra Costa County and we have been recently burglarized. They stole 40 Chromebooks from our kids.
Between Thursday, June 18, 2026, after 4:00 PM and Friday, June 19, before 6:00 PM, our location at 512 W. 2nd Street in Antioch was broken into. During the burglary, all of the Chromebooks donated by the Antioch Rotary Club were stolen.
These Chromebooks were used daily in our free tutoring program, youth job readiness program, homework support services, reading intervention activities, and educational workshops. Every service we provide is offered at no cost, making these resources vital for the children, youth, and families we serve.
In addition to the Chromebooks, our livestream equipment, personal laptops, and other devices were also taken.
We are also addressing attempts to access our financial and communication platforms, including Venmo, PayPal, email and banking-related accounts. We have taken immediate steps to secure our systems, filed a police report, and are working with law enforcement.
Our hearts are heavy. These resources helped children learn, complete homework, build confidence, and prepare for their futures.
We are asking for the community’s help. If you were near 512 W. 2nd Street in Antioch between June 18 and June 19 and saw anything suspicious, have information about this incident, or notice someone attempting to sell multiple Chromebooks or other electronic equipment, please contact us or local law enforcement.
According to Antioch Police Lt. Mike Mellone, a report was taken and the burglary is under investigation.
While this is heartbreaking, it will not stop our mission. We remain committed to serving our community and providing free programs to the children, youth and families who depend on them.
As we prepare for our summer programs, we urgently need your help replacing these essential resources so we can continue providing free services to the hundreds of students and families who rely on us each year.
Every donation, no matter the size, helps us move one step closer to restoring these vital programs. If you are unable to donate, sharing our story with others is equally appreciated.
Would lose money on current investments, restrict investments in more companies and industries, could cost more in advisory fees; while world’s largest investment firms are abandoning them
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, the Antioch City Council will consider including liberal activist or “woke” practices in the City’s investment policy. The proposal is being brought to council after they failed to adopt the current investment policy on a 2-2 split vote during the June 9th Council meeting. Mayor Ron Bernal and Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas voted in favor, Councilwomen Monica Wilson and Tamisha Torres-Walker voted against, and District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha was absent.
Both Freitas and Torres-Walker suggested the investment policy discussion take place at a future Council meeting. Further discussion resulted in direction to bring the item back with the Treasurer and the City’s investment advisor, Justin Resuello from PFMAM, present and for the Treasurer to meet with the advocates to discuss ethical investment. City Treasurer Jorge Rojas, Jr. later met with a local advocacy group to receive their proposed policy.
Under item 8 on Tuesday’s agenda, the Council is being asked by City staff to “provide direction on inclusion of Socially Responsible Investing or Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Investing practices in the Statement of Investment Policy.” Such policies are considered “woke” as they are part of liberal activism, politicize investment practices and prevent investing in companies they don’t like for one reason or another. This, while the world’s two largest investment firms have been moving in the opposite direction over the past two years.
According to the City staff report, during the June 9th meeting, members of Contra Costa Divest spoke and requested that the City adopt what they consider to be “ethical investment practices”, with similar language to the investment policy for Alameda County. Torres-Walker spoke in support of an ethical policy, as well.
The City’s current Investment Policy requires that the City Treasurer render the Policy to City Council for review when changes are made, or at least every two years. The investment policy was last reviewed and approved by City Council in June 2024.
Current Investment Restrictions Only Exclude Alcohol & Tobacco Manufacturers
Socially Responsible Investing (SRI), would filter out and exclude sectors and/or companies the City does not want to invest in. The current Policy includes one such prohibition in Section V. 3: a. which reads, “The City will not invest in any companies that produce alcohol for public consumption or tobacco products.”
City Would Lose Money on Current Investments
According to the presentation by the City’s investment advisor, PFM Asset Management (PFMAM), the do-not-buy lists available through Bloomberg currently include specific industry or subindustry classifications such as firearms and ammunition, private corrections, oil & gas, coal, tobacco, wine/spirits, brewery, night clubs, etc. Furthermore, Sustainalytics has categorized each rated organization into one of over 40 industries and one of over 135 subindustries. Example classifications include oil & gas, refiners & pipelines, energy services, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, paper/forestry, etc.
PFMAM did review the current investments with Caterpillar, Chevron and Lockheed Martin that the advocacy group specifically mentioned that the City should divest from, and as of June 17th, four of the investments would be sold at a loss to the City of $25,758.93 and one investment would provide a small gain of $2,262. With either option, it is recommended that the City hold investments that would be out of compliance with any new methodology adopted until they can either be sold with no loss, or until maturity, whichever comes first.
Proposed ESG Investment Policy
Treasurer Rojas met with a representative from Contra Costa Divest to understand their position and the proposed language for the ESG investment policy is as follows:
“The City of Antioch will strive to invest its funds in ways that promote the wellbeing of our communities and our environment, favoring investment in entities that support the needs of peacetime daily life, in companies that offer renewable energy and other climate mitigation strategies, in companies with a strong environmental, labor, and social records, or in socially responsible community projects within our City.
“The City will refrain from investment in harmful industries such as tobacco, fossil fuels, mass incarceration or immigrant detention, and weaponry of any kind, or in companies with a consistent record of direct involvement in severe human rights violations such as slavery and prison labor, war crimes, illegal military occupation, racial segregation, or apartheid.”
The challenge is who will define each of those categories, and the effort has specifically been to divest from companies based in Israel as the Left considers that country’s actions in Gaza as an “illegal military occupation.”
In addition, space related companies use fossil fuels to power their rockets, and the Left is opposed to the world’s first trillionaire, Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, which just issued its first public offering. Such a policy could prevent the City from investing in that or other similar companies and enjoying returns on investment from its growth.
According to the National and Legal Policy Center (NLPC), the world’s largest asset manager, “Blackrock was one of the pioneers of ESG investing, but in early 2025 abandoned “the ‘woke’ policies.” It was “the biggest sign yet that the vibe has shifted against liberal activism in the private sector.” In addition, NLPC reported in May 2026, “Vanguard, the second-largest index fund manager with approximately $10 trillion in assets under management, has similarly retreated in public posture while its index funds.”
According to the City staff report, while “there is no cost to adopt the draft policy attached, should the City choose to adopt an ESG investment practice, additional investment advisory fees could be incurred.
Any Changes Will Be Brought Back Later for Consideration and Possible Adoption
The Council must at least review and adopt the current policy by June 30th. Staff is recommending they approve the draft policy without any SRI/ESG additions to remain compliant, and staff can then move forward working on any updates should Council direct ethical investing.
If they would like to incorporate it into the City investment policy, based on that direction, the Acting City Manager and Finance Director will work with the City Treasurer and PFMAM to determine investment parameters and draft an updated investment policy, understanding that this is not a quick turnaround process and will take some time as some agencies have spent up to a year crafting an investment strategy that fulfilled the ethical investment guidelines they wanted. A draft updated investment policy will be brought back to Council for consideration once this process is complete.
The Council meeting 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.
Despite net $7 million in budget savings City still projected to face double digit deficits for following three years; only 70% of Measure W sales tax funds to be spent on police
Will reconsider financing for affordable apartments project
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, the Antioch City Council will vote on the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget, reconsider approving financing for the affordable Hillcrest Summit Apartments project and consider approving funding for Homekey+ Project at former Comfort Inn on Mahogany Way.
Before the regular meeting begins at 7:00 p.m., the Council will hold a Closed Session beginning at 6:00 p.m. to negotiate contracts with City employee groups who have been working without one since last fall. They include the Management Unit, Operating Engineers Local Union No. 3, Confidential Unit, Antioch Police Officers Association and Antioch Police Sworn Management Association.
Source: City of Antioch
Annual General Fund Budget
According to the City staff report for agenda item 5. “the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 General Fund budget with a deficit of $4,567,879, to be offset by the Budget Stabilization Fund, is presented this evening. Since the budget presentation on June 9th, an additional $209,653 in vacancy and salary adjustments has been built into the draft budget.” To get to that figure the Council and staff worked to make $7,315,199 in “true” adjustments to the budget, according to Finance Director Dawn Merchant and Acting City Manager Ana Cortez.
The fiscal year 2027 budget includes a reduction of three funded staff positions “reflecting the net impact of added and frozen positions.” Sworn police officer staffing remains at 105 positions, while fiscal year 2027-28 projections include reaching a target of 117 sworn by June 30, 2028. However, as of June 10th, according to Chief Joe Vigil, there are currently 85 sworn officers on the Antioch Police force.
No COLAS (Cost of Living Adjustments), other than those previously approved for the Treatment Plan Employee Association bargaining unit, are included in the draft budget.
The proposed budget assumes the current Acting City Manager will remain in place through June 2027, and the Human Resources Manager will be filled by an Analyst, and no Assistant City Manager for six more months.
Budget Savings Highlights
The proposed budget includes the following savings:
City Manager’s Office
Leave Assistant City Manager position vacant for six months saving $230,000. The position hasn’t been filled since last year.
Freeze Administrative Analyst in City Manager’s office for $215,284;
Police Department
Remove 12 Police Trainees for $631,464;
Cancel Emergency Operations Center Improvements for $480,143;
Update FY27 Police salaries for staffing/academy changes for $294,773;
Reduce Police part-time help for $174,666;
Add 4 months vacancy savings for 1 Police CSO for $55,534;
Add 4 months vacancy savings for 1 Police Dispatcher for $70,001;
Animal Services
Freeze 1 Animal Control Officer for $136,584;
Add 2 months vacancy savings for 1 Animal Control Officer Police for $24,930;
Reduction to Animal Services vet contracts and supplies of $110,000;
Public Works
Freeze Assistant City Engineer for $262,295;
Add 6 mos. vacancy saving Assistant/Junior Engineer for $84,221;
Freeze Senior Civil Engineer (.25 FTE General Fund) for $47,130;
Add 4 mos. vacancy savings Operations Supervisor for $22,630;
Community & Economic Development
Reduction in Economic Development programs/contracts of $255,000;
Add 6 months vacancy savings Economic Development Program Manager for $104,041;
Add 4 months vacancy savings Senior Economic Development Program Manager for $86,415
Freeze 1 Code Enforcement Officer for $181,981;
Recreation Department
Underfill Recreation Supervisor with Recreation Coordinator for $45,383;
Freeze Recreation Coordinator for 6 months for $74,402;
Reduce Recreation part-time help for $88,636;
Finance Department
Freeze Finance Dep’t. Business License Representative for $153,941;
Freeze Business License Representative Finance for $153,941;
Freeze Accounting Specialist II Finance for $166,643;
Other
Freeze vacant Community Engagement Coordinator in Community Services Dep’t for $197,300;
Underfill HR Manager with Analyst, freeze Specialist HR for $212,502;
Add 6 months savings for Public Records Coordinator in City Clerk’s Office for $93,656; and
Remove General Fund Vehicle Replacement Set-Aside for $1,776,290.
Source: City of Antioch
The use of Measure W 1% sales tax funds are proposed at 70% for Police, 15% for Quality of Life and 15% for Youth Services, which is out of compliance with the 80-10-10 split intended by the city council at the time the voters approved the ballot measure in November 2018.
Reserve & Budget Stabilization Funds
The minimum 20% unassigned reserve requirement is met in each fiscal year, although balancing is achieved with use of fund balance and Budget Stabilization Funds. The Budget Stabilization Fund balance is projected to be $36,249,323 at June 30, 2026; $31,681,444 at June 30, 2027; and $26,681,444 at June 30, 2028, based on current projections.
Even with this year’s budget savings, the City is projected to face double-digit deficits for the following three fiscal years. But there will be enough remaining in the Budget Stabilization Fund to cover almost all of them.
Antioch Inn & Suites formerly Comfort Inn located across from the Lowe’s store on Mahogany Way. Photos courtesy of Mike Barbanica
California Supportive Mahogany Housing Project for Homeless
Under Item 9, the Council will consider approving a one-time capital match contribution of $750,000 for state funding of the Homekey+ California Supportive Housing (CSH) Mahogany Housing Project. It will fund the acquisition and rehabilitation of the Antioch Inn & Suites, formerly known as the Comfort Inn, to convert the existing hotel into approximately 84 to 85 units of permanent supportive housing with supportive services for eligible residents.
According to the City staff report, following Council direction at their meeting on May 22, 2025, the City applied for the Homekey+ funding. “The project application assumes ongoing operating assistance averaging approximately $1.2 million annually during the initial five-year period,” for a total of an additional $6 million. “If such funding levels were maintained over the full fifteen-year period, the total potential City contribution could be approximately $18.75 million, from the General Fund.”
“The City would receive the benefit of approximately $34.9 million in State Homekey+ funding,” awarded in May, 2026, “for acquisition and rehabilitation of the project. The City would assume ongoing administrative, monitoring, and compliance responsibilities associated with participation in the program.”
“While the City was a co-applicant and recipient of the award, the City has not executed the Homekey+ Standard Agreement with HCD and has not formally accepted the grant funds. Because the…Agreement has not been executed, the City currently has no contractual obligation to participate in the project. The City would not assume the reporting, compliance, monitoring, or administrative responsibilities associated with the Homekey+ Program.” However if the Council declines the grant funds, “the City could experience reduced competitiveness for certain future discretionary housing funding opportunities.”
Hillcrest Summit Apartments site and location maps. Source: City of Antioch
Will Reconsider Financing for Affordable Apartment Complex
As previously reported, after an impassioned effort by Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas, during the Council’s meeting on April 14, 2026, public financing for the Hillcrest Summit Apartments received a 2-2-1 vote with Mayor Ron Bernal and District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha voting yes, Freitas and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson voting no, and District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker voting to abstain. That’s in spite of the fact the latter two voted for the Commercial Infill Housing Overlay District rezoning the parcel and Bernal complained about how the four-story apartment buildings would look.
Freitas mainly opposed the project because of the proximity to the gas station and 24-hour car wash. (See related article)
According to the City staff report for the item, number 4. on the agenda, “Following that failed approval, the Developer and City engaged in discussions regarding the City’s further consideration and the City Council provided direction to staff to bring the item back this evening for consideration.”
However, no changes have been made to the design of the project.
The Council will again conduct a public hearing on financing for the proposed extremely low, very low and low-income housing project, part of the 10 properties the City Council rezoned to a CIH Overlay Districts in 2022. While, as a result, no Planning Commission or Council decisions with public input are required to approve the projects, the public does have the opportunity to provide input on the City assisting with financing.
Under the Tax Equity Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (TEFRA), the Council is being asked to approve the issuance of one or more series of revenue bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA) to provide for the financing or refinancing of the acquisition, construction, improvement and equipping of the projects.
The bonds, not to exceed $50,000,000, will benefit Hillcrest Antioch LP for the 165-unit multi-family housing project on the 4.9-acre parcel. It is planned for vacant land located behind the 76 Service Station and 7-Eleven bordered by Shaddick Drive, Harris Drive, E. Tregallas Road and Hillcrest Avenue.
The project is planned to be 100% affordable. The affordability of the units will be based on income of the tenants with 17 units at 30% of Area Median Income (AMI), 17 units at 50% AMI and 131 units, including two manager units, will be offered at 60% AMI.
However, the staff report explains that the bonds to be issued by the CMFA for the Project will be the sole responsibility of the Borrower, and the City will have no financial, legal, or moral obligation, liability or responsibility for the Project or the repayment of the bonds for the financing of the Project. All financing documents with respect to the issuance of the bonds will contain clear disclaimers that the bonds are not obligations of the City or the State of California but are to be paid for solely from funds provided by the Borrower.
The Council is again being asked to adopt a resolution approving the issuance of the Bonds by the CMFA without such, the project cannot move forward.
The beginning of the Closed Session and the regular Council meeting 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.
Have you ever considered running for office? Learn the basics of running for office at the Contra Costa Elections Division’s Candidate Workshops.
This engaging candidate workshop is designed to remove the mystery from running for office. Experts will cover what’s involved with running for office, including how to file and appear on the ballot, campaign finance disclosure requirements, strategies for spreading your message (including social media), and what happens when you’re in the public eye.
The first one will be held in Antioch on Monday, June 22 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:300 p.m.
With parade, live music, Kids Zone, dunk tank fundraiser, food and fireworks show over the river!
By City of Antioch Recreation Department
Join the City of Antioch for a festive day of community pride and patriotic fun in celebrating America’s 250th Independence Day in our historic, downtown Rivertown Saturday, July 4th. Visit Waldie Plaza to experience live entertainment and enjoy food from local restaurants, vendors and trucks. Have an exciting time with friends and family in the Kids Zone located at City Hall, before picking your spot to see the big, unforgettable fireworks show over the river to cap off the celebration!
Schedule of Events
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Parade
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Kids Zone
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Live Entertainment | Farenhyte 5150
What better way to celebrate Independence Day than by making a splash and raising funds for a fantastic cause? By participating in our Dunk Tank event, you’ll not only have a blast but also contribute to providing scholarships for youth and adults to participate in recreational activities they might not otherwise have access to.
Not interested in sitting in the tank? Get involved by donating to the cause! As you attend our Fourth of July Celebration, stop by the Kids Zone to take your turn trying to sink the sitter! Cheer on our throwers and our volunteers as we raise money to continue to provide recreational opportunities for residents, young and young at heart! The deadline to sign up to take the plunge is Friday, June 26th.
Parade Entry Registration
Ready to show off your red, white, and blue spirit? Parade registrations for Antioch’s 4th of July Celebration are now open! Don’t miss out—register today and be part of one of Antioch’s favorite traditions!
Whether you’re young or young at heart, a solo walker or part of a group, this parade is for everyone. From classic cars and colorful floats to decorated bicycles and festive performances, let your creativity shine as we come together as a community to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
Source: City of Antioch
Parade Route
The parade will begin at the intersection of W 2nd St. and E St. Antioch, CA at 4 pm. The Judge’s Station will be located at the center of Waldie Plaza. A second parade performance stop will be on W 3rd St. next to City Hall. We will finish the parade on W 3rd St. at the corner of D St.
Celebration Site
The main celebration site will take place in Waldie Plaza and the parking lot of City Hall, encompassing W 2nd St. to W 3rd St. and G St. to I St. There are many occurrences within the celebration site, including a live entertainment stage, local restaurants, food trucks, vendors, Kids Zone, DJ stage, and much more.
Officer Brock Marcotte seized 2.1 pounds of marijuana and $1,900 in cash during the arrest on Friday, June 19, 2026. Photos: Antioch PD
37-year-old man with history of arrests already out of custody
By Antioch Police Department
Friday morning, June 19, 2026, day shift officers were approached by a concerned resident near W. 10th Street and K Street who reported that individuals were loitering in the area and suspected of dealing drugs. The resident expressed concerns for his safety and asked officers to help address the issue.
A short time later, Officer Brock Marcotte responded to the area and observed a male loitering near a white SUV. A records check revealed the vehicle’s owner had an outstanding felony Ramey warrant out of Oakland.
During contact with the occupant, Officer Marcotte observed a large quantity of marijuana in plain view and confirmed the individual was the subject of the warrant. During the arrest, officers located approximately 2.1 pounds of marijuana and $1,900 in cash in multiple denominations. The suspect admitted to selling marijuana in the area.
The suspect was arrested at 9:54 AM and booked into the Martinez Detention Facility for marijuana sales and the outstanding warrant. The marijuana and cash were seized as evidence.
According to the Antioch PD CitizenRIMS, arrested was 37-year-old Carvonte Jonmonte Simon is Black or African American, five-feet, six-inches tall and 160 pounds.
According to localcrimenews.com, the suspect is from Suisun City has a history of arrests dating back to 2019, by multiple agencies on gun and ammunition charges, and for crimes including battery on a spouse, cohabitant or former spouse, grand theft, burglary and receiving or concealing stolen property.
In addition to this arrest, the Antioch Police Department has increased proactive enforcement efforts throughout the Sycamore Corridor to address community concerns related to blight, quality-of-life issues and the sale of illicit narcotics.
We appreciate residents who continue to report suspicious activity and partner with us to keep Antioch safe.
The Antioch Historical Museum is located on W. 4th Street. Photo: AHM
Museum, Sports Legends Hall of Fame closed to public beginning today, June 18, 2026
By Carla Baker Marymee, Media Relations, Antioch Historical Museum
ANTIOCH, CA — June 17, 2026 — The Antioch Historical Museum, located at 1500 W. 4th Street, is temporarily closing to the public as the building’s exterior receives much-needed refurbishment and internal operations are modernized. The closure begins June 18, 2026. Work starts June 22 through July 31. Due to insurance liability issues, the Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame, housed within the museum, will also be closed.
The temporary closure supports the first phase of the museum’s newly adopted 5‑Year Strategic Plan, which aims to elevate, protect, and reimagine Antioch’s cultural legacy. This initial phase focuses on foundational work, including a full assessment of the historic 1910 Riverview High School building, establishing a modernized organizational structure, and launching the search for the museum’s first Executive Director.
“After several meetings with the Transition Team and our officers, it became clear that we needed this temporary closure to focus our time and energy on making external improvements to the building and modernizing internal operations,” said Theresa Court, President of the Antioch Historical Museum.
As part of the building assessment, Craig Andrews, Manager of the City of Antioch Building Services Division, conducted a full inspection. “We were delighted to learn that the building is solid and sound,” said Tom Hartrick, Transition Team member and owner of Infinity Painting.
Exterior improvements will be completed by Redwood Painting Company, a leading industrial and commercial coatings contractor led by George Del Monte. Work will include a light power wash, inspection and replacement of aging window frames, refurbishment of the museum’s two front entrance doors, fresh white paint on all previously painted surfaces, and removal of damaged wood and the catwalk above the ADA access door.
In addition to physical upgrades, the museum is undertaking a comprehensive review of its internal operations, financial systems, computer infrastructure, and all communications vehicles, including the website, social media, and digital communication to the members.
Transition Team members Donna McGee, Site Director at Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center, and Mike Green, Vice Principal at Deer Valley High School, are leading the recruitment effort to find a future Executive Director.
“Implementing the new Strategic Plan is a process and in motion. The changes will take time, but everything we’re doing is to make the museum thrive and preserve the region’s heritage for future generations,” Court said.
The Antioch Historical Museum is housed in the historic 1910 Riverview High School, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is also home to the Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame. For more information, contact Carla Baker Marymee, Antioch Historical Society Museum Public Relations Strategist, at (925) 775‑8764. Visit the museum on Facebook at facebook.com/antiochhistoricalmuseum or online at antiochhistoricalmuseum.org.
Several related to alleged police civil rights violations
Will also discuss city attorney performance evaluation
By Allen D. Payton
During a special closed session meeting on Thursday, June 18, 2026, the Antioch City Council will meet with legal counsel to discuss 41 existing lawsuits, 16 potential lawsuits and the performance evaluation of City Attorney Lori Asuncion. The meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers before adjourning behind closed doors.
2) Trent Allen, et al. v. City of Antioch, et al., United States District Court Northern District of California, (Case No. 3:23-cv-01895-TSH). – Ongoing civil rights class action lawsuit against the City, as well as police officers and former chiefs. Plaintiffs also include Shagoofa Khan, Adam Carpenter, Joshua Butler, Diego Savala, Kardell Smith, Dejon Richards, Dreshawn Jackson and David Mackin. Defendants also include former Police Chiefs Tammany Brooks, Tony Morefield, Steven Ford, and former officers Josh Evans, Eric Rombough, Morteza Amiri, Scott Duggar, John Ramirez, Timothy Manly Williams, Tom Lenderman, Loren Bledsoe and Thomas Smith. As previously reported, Allen is one of four suspects convicted of the 2021 murder of Arnold Marcel Hawkins and the attempted murder of Aaron Patterson. He and the other plaintiffs claim civil rights violations by the officers. The case appeared to be settled last year. But, without explanation from City staff, continues to be adjudicated. (See Settlement and related articles here and here)
3) Ashika Kanji v. City of Antioch, Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C24-00795). Personal Injury and Torts – Motor Vehicle lawsuit.
4) Reagan DeGuzman v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No.C23-00666).
5) Nicholas Warner v. County of Contra Costa, City of Antioch, Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C23-02689). According to an EINPresswire report, “a bicyclist was injured when a designated bike lane was abruptly blocked by a locked metal gate located in an insufficiently illuminated section of (a developing) roadway.” According to court documents, “Plaintiff alleges he was injured while riding a bicycle between 10:30 and 11:00 pm on property owned by the City of Antioch” and amount demanded is $35,000. New home developer “K. Hovnanian plans to file a cross-complaint against Teichert Construction, Inc. and/or All Commercial Fence, Inc., the parties responsible for erecting and/or maintaining the gate alleged to have caused the injury.”.
6) Susan Shintaku v. City of Antioch, Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C24-00356).
7) O.Y. a Decedent, et al., v. Contra Costa County, et al., United States District Court Northern District of California, (Case No. 3:24-cv-05154-PHK). Civil rights lawsuit by plaintiffs A.Y. a minor, W.Y. a minor and O.Y. a decedent. Defendants include Jessika Fulcher, Sr Worren Young, City of Antioch, Contra Costa County, Flynne Lewis, Raji Ponnaluri, Contra Costa Regional Health Foundation, Colleen Sullivan and The Learning Center.
8) Jordan Davis v. County of Contra Costa, et al., United States District Court Northern District of California, (Case No.4:21-cv-04651). The complaint, filed on June 16, 2021, alleges civil rights violations. Defendants include County of Contra Costa, Nicole Martinez, Brian Rose, Ashley Crandall, Vernita James, Hutchings Christian, City of Antioch.
9) Nirvana Allen v. City of Antioch, Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No.C22-02401).
10) Lamar Young v. Sgt. Stenger, et al., United States District Court Northern District of California, (Case No. 21-cv-08131-DMR). Young is one of two brothers arrested in 2020 for a brutal sexual assault of a woman and convicted in 2022 of sex crimes and robbery. (See related articles here and here).
According to court documents, this is a civil rights case filed Aug. 15, 2023, by self-represented Plaintiff Lamar Young. He alleges “that the following Defendants employed by the Antioch Police Department (“APD”) used excessive force against him during an interrogation on October 29, 2020, in West County Detention Center in Contra Costa County: Sergeant James Stenger; and Detectives Kelly Inabnett, Mellone, and Bledsoe.Plaintiff asserts that during the interrogation, he refused Defendants’ request that he put on a mask in order for them to take a photograph of him wearing it.Plaintiff alleges that when he refused to put on the mask, Stenger, Mellone and Bledsoe forced him to wear it, using excessive force against him in the process. Plaintiff further claims that Inabnett failed to intervene to stop the use of excessive force. Plaintiff also alleges a state law claim of negligence against Stenger for failing to prevent a ‘safety issue’.”
11) Jessie Wilson and Dajon Smith v. City of Antioch, et al., United States District Court Northern District of California, (Case No. 4:24-cv-02758-JSW). A federal civil rights lawsuit filed on May 8, 2024, against the City of Antioch, and individual, now former, police officers Morteza Amiri, Eric Rombough, and Devon Wenger, former Chief Tammany Brooks and DOES 1-50.
12) Pat Stack, et al., v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C24-01065).
13) Mary Reed v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C24-01367).
14) Marilou Gecale v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-01383).
15) Michael Sweets v. Antioch Police Department, et al., United States District Court for the Northern District of California, (Civil Action No. 24-9275 VC). According to Justia.com, the case is a Prisoner: Civil Rights complaint filed by Michael Sweets, a pretrial detainee at West County Detention Facility in Contra Costa County. The case involves allegations of false arrest and search and seizure of Sweets’s vehicle.
16) Estate of Linda Woolridge, et al. v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-01750). The case arose from the tragic death of Woolridge, a 29‑year‑old mother of two, who was fatally struck by a drunk driver, Antioch resident Alexander Mayorga, while riding her bicycle on Lone Tree Way in the early morning of July 27, 2024. (See related Herald articles here, here and here)
17) Kathryn Wade, et al. v. City of Antioch, et al., United States District Court for Northern California (Civil Action No. 3:25-cv-03200-TSH). – Filed by Wade on April 9, 2025, other plaintiffs include S.B., China Young, Adrian Arroyo and Brandon Lopez. Defendants named in the suit include City of Antioch, current or former Chief A. Morefield, Chief Tammany Brooks, Sgt. Evans, Sgt. Jimmy Wisecarver, Sgt. Stenger, Officers Kelly Inabnett, Aaron Hughes, Morteza Amiri, Devon Wenger, Eric Allen Rombough, Jacob Ewart and Michael Mellone.
According to the East Bay Times, Wade previously sued the City and two police officers, Michael Mellone and Jacob Ewart, in March 2023. The Antioch City Council voted in November 2024 to pay Wade $349,000 as part of a settlement. She claimed her son Malad Baldwin was assaulted by Antioch Police Department officers in 2014.
“The lawsuit said that Baldwin was seated in Wade’s car, which was parked in front of their house, when two Antioch police officers — James Colley and Casey Brogdon — approached the car, opened the passenger door and yanked Baldwin out. The two officers then kicked and beat him with a flashlight even after he lost consciousness, court documents state. Wade, who was present during the incident, also reportedly sustained physical and mental injuries.
“In her complaint, Wade claimed that apart from the alleged assault of Baldwin, Antioch officer Santiago Castillo had also verbally assaulted and pointed a gun at her while she was in a wheelchair that same month. She also alleged that Baldwin was again beaten at least three times in September and December of 2019, as well as in March 2020.”
Baldwin, who, according to Localcrimenews.com, had been arrested multiple times between 2014 and 2020, died March 13, 2021. However, according to his mother, he was never convicted of a crime.
18) Angelia Baxter v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-02194). According to Law.com, the personal injury lawsuit is for damages arising from an incident that occurred on city property or premises.
19) Espiridion Puga v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-03209).
20) Jonathan Smith v. City of Antioch, et al., United States District Court for the Northern District of California, (case No. 4:25-cv05572-KAW). Civil rights lawsuit.
21) Antioch Police Officers Association v. City of Antioch, Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. N23-1629). As previously reported by the Herald, the APOA’s attorney, Mike Rains, said the lawsuit is to obtain then-Mayor Lamar Thorpe’s phone records because the City won’t provide them, claiming they couldn’t find any. The Public Records Act request covers the nine days prior to Thorpe’s Wednesday, March 30, 2023, press conference when he spoke about the investigation into the racist text scandal among Antioch officers.
23) Annette Bullock, et al. v. City of Antioch, Contra Costa County Superior Court (Case No. C19-01331). Lawsuit by 17 retired City employees over medical after retirement health benefits.
25) Devon Wenger v. Antioch Police Department, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-00578). – By former Antioch Police Officer convicted, sentenced to 7.5 years in prison for conspiring to violate civil rights, distribute steroids, and obstructing justice. Wenger claims he was framed and retaliated against as a whistleblower. (See related articles here and here)
26) Brittany Hopper v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-00988).
27) Donna Miles v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-00148).
28) Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-00916, C25-02768) According to Law.com, this is a real property judicial foreclosure action. Defendants also include Does 1 through 20 (undisclosed), the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Testate and Intestate Successors of Darrell Oliver, Deceased, and all persons claiming by, through or under such decedent.
29) Royal Pacific Funding Corporation v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (C25-01851).
30) Linda Price v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No.C25-01700).
31) Gary Dartez & Tamisha Latimore v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Limited Civil Jurisdiction, Contra Costa County, (Case No. N25-1849) Rent Program. Filed Sept. 17, 2025, the defendants include Redwood Property Investors III, LLC.
32) Lucia B. Albers & Elizabeth Ann Iannaccone v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. N26-0037). A civil action by developer of the Albers Ranch 294-home project in the Sand Creek Area. Although approved by the City Council in January 2025, Albers claims discrimination and she’s being overcharged fees that make her project financially unviable. Plaintiffs are seeking a writ of mandate and declaratory relief against the City of Antioch.
33) Katie Harrison v. City of Antioch, et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-03507).
34) Karl Brownlee v. City of Antioch and California Community Housing Agency, Superior Court of the State of California, Limited Civil Jurisdiction, Contra Costa County, (Case No. N26-0212) Rent Program.
36) Shimmick Construction Co., et al, v. City of Antioch, et al., United States District Court for the Northern District of California, Oakland Division, (Case No. 3:25-cv-05618 & 25CV109652 [Superior Court of Alameda]). For Unlimited Breach of Contract/Warranty by the General Contractor for non-payment for work on the City’s Brackish Water Desalination Plant in which they are seeking damages of $30 million plus interest. (See related article)
37) Dason Melius v. J. Yega, City of Antioch Police Officer, et al., United States District Court for the Northern District of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. 25-cv-06956-CRB). Filed on May 5, 2026, by a a pretrial detainee at Contra Costa County’s West County Detention Facility (WCDF). According to court documents, “Plaintiff alleges that on September 22, 2023, he was arrested by several City of Antioch Police Department officers who used excessive force against him. He specifically alleges that officers J. Yega and Joseph Chandler ‘lift and throw [plaintiff] to the ground face down, with handcuffs.’ FAC (ECF No. 12) at 5. Then officers Chandler and B. Lassas ‘bounced on plaintiff’s legs while they were bent backwards,’ and officers Lassas and Aguilar ‘appl[ied] pressure or force to plaintiff’s back, pushing air out, stopping his ability to breathe.’ Id. Plaintiff further alleges a series of purported violations in connection with the conditions of his subsequent confinement at MDF (Martinez Detention Facility) and WCDF in 2024. Among other things, he alleges that various correctional staff at MDF and WCDF were deliberately indifferent to his health and safety needs and interfered with his right of access to the courts.”
38) Jami Bruno, the Estate of Gabriel Gaspar v. Contra Costa County et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-00820-EGW). A Personal Injury and Torts – Motor Vehicle lawsuit. Defendants include the City of Antioch, Contra Costa County Fire Emergency Services and Contra Costa County Fire Rescue Services. According to court documents, “The incident occurred on March 20, 2024, at the intersection of W. Fourth St. and L Street in Antioch.”
The lawsuit alleges, “Gabriel Gaspar was involved in a motorcycle-vehicle collision outside the Antioch Police Station. Antioch Police Department personnel arrived first and began resuscitation efforts, successfully reviving Gaspar two to three times. Contra Costa County Fire Emergency Services and Fire Rescue personnel arrived and took over medical care. However, they negligently ordered Antioch Police personnel to stop CPR and failed to continue life-saving resuscitation efforts. Defendants breached their duty by ceasing resuscitation efforts prematurely, in direct violation of established protocols. Defendants failed to act with reasonable care when they stopped resuscitation efforts.”
39) Christian Gutierrez et al. v. City of Antioch et al., United States District Court for the Northern District of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. 3:24-cv-01697-JSC). Civil rights violation complaint against Gonzalez Adrian, Antioch Police Department, City of Antioch, Stenger James, Vincent James, Harger Matt, Thomas Steve, Doo Will. Filed by Rosalba Zendejas, Christian Gutierrez, Giovanni Gutierrez.
40) Javier Elias Aguilar v. Anthony Valdez, Jr. et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C23-00410). According to Unicourt.com, on 02/24/2023 Aguilar filed a Personal Injury and Torts – Motor Vehicle lawsuit. Defendants also include Officer Ryan Duff and City of Antioch.
41) Jasmine Morris-Hughes v. Alameda Contra Costa Transit District et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, (Case No. C25-01756). According to UniCourt.com, on 06/20/2025 Morris-Hughes filed a Personal Injury and Torts – Motor Vehicle lawsuit. Defendants also include the City Of Antioch, County of Contra Costa and Does 1 to 50, inclusive. Court documents claim, Bus Driver Toby Sanders “negligently, carelessly, recklessly, willfully, wantonly, and tortiously operated a motor vehicle in the defective mechanical condition of a motor vehicle…in such a manner so as to cause the motor vehicle to begin the chain of events which ended up with Plaintiff MORRIS-HUGHES was thrown to the right after an unsafe left turn, causing her physical, bodily, mental, and emotional injury. Plaintiff was injured in her health, strength, and activities, and sustained injury to her body and shock and injury to her nerves and nervous system, all of which have caused and continue to cause her great mental, physical, and emotional pain…”
The meeting will begin and end inside the Council Chambers located at City Hall, 200 H Street in historic, downtown Rivertown. The City Attorney will report out of Closed Session any action taken by the Council.
