Issue Community Message on the Implementation of Immigration Laws in English & Spanish

Exceptions to law allow officers discretion to cooperate with immigration authorities

“The priorities will focus on public safety threats, national security threats and fugitives… Harboring or concealing undocumented immigrants is a federal crime.” – Tom Homan, Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

By Allen D. Payton

In response to the recent executive orders by President Trump on enforcing the nation’s immigration laws and expected mass deportations, The Antioch Police Department issued the following statement on Thursday, January 30, 2025, regarding their cooperation with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

“The Antioch Police Department is committed to the safety and protection of our entire community, regardless of immigration status.

We do NOT participate in ICE raids or the enforcement of federal immigration laws.

We do NOT ask people about their immigration status for law enforcement purposes. (APD Policy 424.4)

We do NOT detain people for civil violations of immigration. (APD Policy 424.5)

Under California Law (SB 54) and our APD Policy (424.2):

Officials cannot use state databases to enforce immigration laws. (APD Policy 424.4.1, 424.4.2)

Victims and witnesses will not be questioned about their immigration status when reporting a crime. (APD Policy 424.3)

Applications for federal immigration assistance must go through a supervisor and are only considered in emergency cases. (APD Policy 424.6)

Public safety for all is our priority. Feel free to contact us—our officers are here to protect and serve, not enforce immigration laws.

Do you need help? Call (925) 778-2441 (or 911 in an emergency) or visit www.antiochca.gov/police.”

District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker posted the announcement on her official Facebook page and wrote, “I am encouraged about how our police department is addressing the concerns of our immigrant neighbors in Antioch. Look how far we have come.”

Acting Chief Joe Vigil and Lt. Michael Mellone of the department’s Professional Standards were asked when the policies mentioned were adopted and for where they can be found online. Mellone responded, “Our policies can be found here: https://www.antiochca.gov/fc/police/apd-policy-manual.pdf#page336.” He said they were adopted sometime in 2017 after the passage of the bill. In the manual, the policies mentioned in the statement under Immigration Violations are found on pages 336-339.

Exceptions to State Sanctuary Law

However, there are exceptions to SB 54, California’s sanctuary law. According to the bill passed by the legislature and signed into law by Governor Newsom in 2017, law enforcement officials have discretion to cooperate with immigration authorities when dealing with criminal illegal immigrants convicted of either a misdemeanor or felony punishable by imprisonment in a state prison. The following section provides the exceptions:

SEC. 2.
Section 7282.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:
7282.5.
(a) A law enforcement official shall have discretion to cooperate with immigration authorities only if doing so would not violate any federal, state, or local law, or local policy, and where permitted by the California Values Act (Chapter 17.25 (commencing with Section 7284)). Additionally, the specific activities described in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of, and in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of, Section 7284.6 shall only occur under the following circumstances:
(1) The individual has been convicted of a serious or violent felony identified in subdivision (c) of Section 1192.7 of, or subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of, the Penal Code.
(2) The individual has been convicted of a felony punishable by imprisonment in the state prison.
(3) The individual has been convicted within the past five years of a misdemeanor for a crime that is punishable as either a misdemeanor or a felony for, or has been convicted within the last 15 years of a felony for, any of the following offenses:
(A) Assault, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 217.1, 220, 240, 241.1, 241.4, 241.7, 244, 244.5, 245, 245.2, 245.3, 245.5, 4500, and 4501 of the Penal Code.
(B) Battery, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 242, 243.1, 243.3, 243.4, 243.6, 243.7, 243.9, 273.5, 347, 4501.1, and 4501.5 of the Penal Code.
(C) Use of threats, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 71, 76, 139, 140, 422, 601, and 11418.5 of the Penal Code.
(D) Sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or crimes endangering children, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 266, 266a, 266b, 266c, 266d, 266f, 266g, 266h, 266i, 266j, 267, 269, 288, 288.5, 311.1, 311.3, 311.4, 311.10, 311.11, and 647.6 of the Penal Code.
(E) Child abuse or endangerment, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 270, 271, 271a, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273.4, and 278 of the Penal Code.
(F) Burglary, robbery, theft, fraud, forgery, or embezzlement, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 211, 215, 459, 463, 470, 476, 487, 496, 503, 518, 530.5, 532, and 550 of the Penal Code.
(G) Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but only for a conviction that is a felony.
(H) Obstruction of justice, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 69, 95, 95.1, 136.1, and 148.10 of the Penal Code.
(I) Bribery, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 67, 67.5, 68, 74, 85, 86, 92, 93, 137, 138, and 165 of the Penal Code.
(J) Escape, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 107, 109, 110, 4530, 4530.5, 4532, 4533, 4534, 4535, and 4536 of the Penal Code.
(K) Unlawful possession or use of a weapon, firearm, explosive device, or weapon of mass destruction, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 171b, 171c, 171d, 246, 246.3, 247, 417, 417.3, 417.6, 417.8, 4574, 11418, 11418.1, 12021.5, 12022, 12022.2, 12022.3, 12022.4, 12022.5, 12022.53, 12022.55, 18745, 18750, and 18755 of, and subdivisions (c) and (d) of Section 26100 of, the Penal Code.
(L) Possession of an unlawful deadly weapon, under the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010 (Part 6 (commencing with Section 16000) of the Penal Code).
(M) An offense involving the felony possession, sale, distribution, manufacture, or trafficking of controlled substances.
(N) Vandalism with prior convictions, as specified in, but not limited to, Section 594.7 of the Penal Code.
(O) Gang-related offenses, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 186.22, 186.26, and 186.28 of the Penal Code.
(P) An attempt, as defined in Section 664 of, or a conspiracy, as defined in Section 182 of, the Penal Code, to commit an offense specified in this section.
(Q) A crime resulting in death, or involving the personal infliction of great bodily injury, as specified in, but not limited to, subdivision (d) of Section 245.6 of, and Sections 187, 191.5, 192, 192.5, 12022.7, 12022.8, and 12022.9 of, the Penal Code.
(R) Possession or use of a firearm in the commission of an offense.
(S) An offense that would require the individual to register as a sex offender pursuant to Section 290, 290.002, or 290.006 of the Penal Code.
(T) False imprisonment, slavery, and human trafficking, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 181, 210.5, 236, 236.1, and 4503 of the Penal Code.
(U) Criminal profiteering and money laundering, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 186.2, 186.9, and 186.10 of the Penal Code.
(V) Torture and mayhem, as specified in, but not limited to, Section 203 of the Penal Code.
(W) A crime threatening the public safety, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 219, 219.1, 219.2, 247.5, 404, 404.6, 405a, 451, and 11413 of the Penal Code.
(X) Elder and dependent adult abuse, as specified in, but not limited to, Section 368 of the Penal Code.
(Y) A hate crime, as specified in, but not limited to, Section 422.55 of the Penal Code.
(Z) Stalking, as specified in, but not limited to, Section 646.9 of the Penal Code.
(AA) Soliciting the commission of a crime, as specified in, but not limited to, subdivision (c) of Section 286 of, and Sections 653j and 653.23 of, the Penal Code.
(AB) An offense committed while on bail or released on his or her own recognizance, as specified in, but not limited to, Section 12022.1 of the Penal Code.
(AC) Rape, sodomy, oral copulation, or sexual penetration, as specified in, but not limited to, paragraphs (2) and (6) of subdivision (a) of Section 261 of, paragraphs (1) and (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 262 of, Section 264.1 of, subdivisions (c) and (d) of Section 286 of, subdivisions (c) and (d) of Section 288a of, and subdivisions (a) and (j) of Section 289 of, the Penal Code.
(AD) Kidnapping, as specified in, but not limited to, Sections 207, 209, and 209.5 of the Penal Code.
(AE) A violation of subdivision (c) of Section 20001 of the Vehicle Code.
(4) The individual is a current registrant on the California Sex and Arson Registry.
(5) The individual has been convicted of a federal crime that meets the definition of an aggravated felony as set forth in subparagraphs (A) to (P), inclusive, of paragraph (43) of subsection (a) of Section 101 of the federal Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. Sec. 1101), or is identified by the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement as the subject of an outstanding federal felony arrest warrant.
(6) In no case shall cooperation occur pursuant to this section for individuals arrested, detained, or convicted of misdemeanors that were previously felonies, or were previously crimes punishable as either misdemeanors or felonies, prior to passage of the Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act of 2014 as it amended the Penal Code.
(b) In cases in which the individual is arrested and taken before a magistrate on a charge involving a serious or violent felony, as identified in subdivision (c) of Section 1192.7 or subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, respectively, or a felony that is punishable by imprisonment in state prison, and the magistrate makes a finding of probable cause as to that charge pursuant to Section 872 of the Penal Code, a law enforcement official shall additionally have discretion to cooperate with immigration officials pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 7284.6.

ICE Director Gives Enforcement Focus, Warning to Sanctuary States, Cities

According to Governing.com, Tom Homan, Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said in December, “The priorities will focus on public safety threats, national security threats and fugitives,” those who “got due process at great taxpayer expense and the federal judge ordered them removed, but they didn’t leave, and they became a fugitive.”

He also said, “sanctuary policies can shield dangerous criminals. Harboring or concealing undocumented immigrants is a federal crime.”

Homan said, anyone who “harbors or conceals illegal aliens from federal law enforcement officers” are committing a crime, and federal immigration law, Title 8 USC 13.24 iii, requires officials to do so.

According to a statement on the ICE website on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, “U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with federal partners, including the FBI, ATF, DEA, CBP and the U.S. Marshals Service, began conducting enhanced targeted operations today in Chicago to enforce U.S. immigration law and preserve public safety and national security by keeping potentially dangerous criminal aliens out of our communities.”

Dear Editor:

I think a little embarrassment may bring humility. One would hope anyway.

CA has made it too easy to steal without consequences. At the very least, a little shame may deter people from being outed.

The thief would be greatly embarrassed when friends, family, co-workers, children, neighbors, etc. see what they have been doing during their free time.

I’m really concerned that stores are closing and having to add expensive anti-theft measures that have made shopping unenjoyable.

It’s not fun shopping anymore, to me, a 60-year-old person AND when I do shop, it’s sad to see empty storefronts.

I no longer shop at a Mexican Creamery near the closed Macy’s in older Antioch because that shopping area is literally a ghost town. Somersville area. I don’t feel safe.

I hope the Antioch/Brentwood shopping centers along Lone Tree Way, don’t suffer the same fate.
Thank you!

Maggie Ahumada

Antioch

Weekly Stats: Serving with Dedication

By Antioch Police Department

Jan. 21, 2025 – Over the past 7 days, your Police Department has been hard at work:
• 1,524 Calls for Service
• 181 Criminal Cases Investigated
• 29 Arrests Made

Each number reflects the dedication and effort of our officers, dispatchers, and staff working around the clock to protect and serve our community. We’re here for you, always.

Thank you for your trust and support!

Not intended to comply with nor required by USDOJ settlement agreement

By Allen D. Payton

Antioch City Manager Bessie Scott clarified the reason the consulting firm of former Interim Antioch Police Chief Brian Addington and former Interim Captain Patrick Wenz, WBA Consulting and Investigations, was hired by the City on a 3-0 vote of the city council on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. The City staff report for item #10 on the council meeting agenda for that night’s meeting was misinterpreted as it included information about the City’s settlement agreement with the U.S Department of Justice and this reporter and others believed the contract was to fulfill one of the requirements.

The City staff report read, “The City seeks the services of a qualified consultant team that can provide support, guidance, and advice in several areas, which will supplement and enhance the Antioch Police Department’s efficiency and effectiveness. The City requires assistance with overall project management for Police Department operations and administration, policy support, and special project implementation for not only day to day operations, but also with compliance efforts identified in the Department of Justice (‘DOJ’) settlement agreement with the Antioch Police Department and City of Antioch dated January 2, 2025. (See related article)

“The City needs its own expert who is familiar with law enforcement in California and keenly knowledgeable of police practices in the region, specifically the Antioch Police Department. The City needs a consultant that can step into the position with little to no time for learning the issues that have plagued the department, the current interventions in place to improve effectiveness, public trust, and morale, and ensure constitutional policing in Antioch, as well as have the ability to provide guidance immediately.

“The services provided by WBA Consulting (‘WBA’) will be provided by two former Antioch Police Department personnel who have been working within the department as Interim Chief and Interim Captain for the majority of the 2024 year. The team will continue to provide executive police management support and consultation to the Acting Chief and City Manager as it relates to mandatory compliance with relevant federal and state laws, regulations, and rules. The City is embarking on a five-year stipulated settlement agreement with the DOJ and has an ongoing investigation with the California Department of Justice (‘CalDOJ’).

“The support needed for these specific challenges and requirements can only be met by former Interim Chief Addington and his team as they have been deeply involved in several of these investigations and initiatives, and there is absolutely no bandwidth for those communications to continue seamlessly without the WBA team. “Because of the existing support and knowledge that can only be provided by WBA, the City Manager requests for the City Council to approve the contract under sole source provisions of the Antioch Municipal Code section 3-4.12 (B).”

In addition, information in the settlement agreement added to the misunderstanding. As was previously reported, the agreement requires several items and processes including, “within 90 days of the Effective Date, the City, the APD, and the United States will identify and mutually agree on a Consultant who is a law enforcement expert with a proven track record in civil rights and law enforcement compliance, as well as state of California law enforcement experience and knowledge of California compliance requirements. The Consultant shall serve as the single point of contact with the United States and be retained by the APD at the City’s expense.” The “annual cost of the consulting engagement shall not exceed $250,000 per year.” It was believed that WBA was the aforementioned consultant.

This reporter misinterpreted the description and information and reported the contract with WBA was to fulfill the settlement agreement with the U.S. DOJ. (See related articles here and here) My apologies.

To clarify matters, Scott wrote the following on Tuesday, January 21, 2025: “The City of Antioch is issuing this statement in response to recent incorrect impressions surrounding who will be the monitoring consultant for the city. It appears that several members of the community mistakenly believe that the WBA Consulting and Investigations LLC consulting agreement, discussed at the January 14th, 2025, City of Antioch Council Meeting, is intended to fulfill the monitoring services referenced within the terms of the Memorandum of Agreement of the City of Antioch’s Settlement Agreement with the United States Department of Justice signed earlier this month.

“We want to clarify that Brian Addington’s consulting firm, WBA Consulting and Investigations LLC, is not performing the services referenced by Section 3 of the Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Antioch and the United States Department of Justice. The consultant for the Memorandum of Agreement has not yet been selected.

The City will prepare a Request for Qualifications for this matter and work with the United States Department of Justice to identify a consultant who is a law enforcement expert with a proven track record in civil rights and law enforcement compliance, as well as state of California law enforcement experience and knowledge of California compliance requirements.

“The consultant will review and update the Antioch Police Department’s policies, procedures and training including non-discriminatory policing, use of force, hiring and promotions, investigations of misconduct, discipline, community policing, language access, and other topics. The consultant will also provide an in-person report to the Antioch City Council at regularly scheduled City Council meetings at least once every 180 days.”

Section 3 of DOJ Settlement Agreement

The first part of Section 3 of the settlement agreement with the USDOJ reads as follows:

“III. REQUIREMENTS
A. Consultant: Within 90 days of the Effective Date, the City, the APD, and the United States will identify and mutually agree on a Consultant who is a law enforcement expert with a proven track record in civil rights and law enforcement compliance, as well as state of California law enforcement experience and knowledge of California compliance requirements. The Consultant shall serve as the single point of contact with the United States and be retained by the APD at the City’s expense. The total annual cost of the consulting engagement shall not exceed $250,000 per year. The Consultant will be responsible for the following functions, among others set forth in this Agreement:

1. providing technical assistance and recommendations to the Chief of Police and APD, the City Manager, the City Attorney, and APOC on implementation of this Agreement;
2. developing an implementation schedule;
3. reviewing and reporting on the APD’s progress in meeting the terms of this Agreement to the United States;
4. coordinating compliance and implementation activities;
5. facilitating access by the United States to APD personnel, data, documents and materials;
6. maintaining data, documents, and records, as provided for in this Agreement;
7. assigning implementation and compliance-related tasks to APD personnel, as directed by the Police Chief and/or his/her designee;
8. providing an in-person report to the Antioch City Council at regularly scheduled City Council meetings at least once every 180 days; and
9. assisting with all other aspects of compliance with this Agreement.”

Read additional details from the 25-page settlement agreement.

Agreement with WBA Not Required by DOJ Settlement Agreement

As previously reported, the amount of the agreement with Addington’s firm is not to exceed $225,000 through June 30, 2025, with a one-time extension for an additional six months for the same terms.

When asked to further clarify if the contract with his firm is one of the requirements in the US DOJ settlement agreement Addington said, “No.” Asked if his agreement is outside of the purview of the settlement agreement he responed, “Yes.”

“What you’ll see, eventually, is an RFQ for firms wanting to be the monitoring consultant. My firm will not be doing that at all,” Addington stated.

“The MOA spells out what the requirements are for the monitor,” he added.

Scott said, “There’s currently not enough staffing in the police department. We will have new, full-time employees fulfilling the settlement agreement.”

“We’re grateful that Brian Addington is able to help the City in working with the monitor and setting up the new Standards and Compliance Bureau which is required by the terms of the DOJ settlement agreement,” the city manager added.

About WBA

According to his bio on the company’s website, “William ‘Brian’ Addington founded WBA Consulting and Investigations LLC after serving over 30 years in law enforcement. He has served in a range of executive and command positions, including 10 years as police chief. His expertise covers the full range of policing disciplines based on his experiences in a law enforcement agency in California.

“Brian provides expert advice on best practices in policing, leadership development, organizational assessments, training, independent investigations, and community engagement and media relations.

“Brian has also served as an advisor and consultant to various law enforcement agencies and executives in developing strategies and best practices to address the ever-changing demands placed on law enforcement professionals.”

About Patrick Wentz

In addition to his service with the Antioch PD, Wentz is a former Pittsburg Police Captain with 26 years of service before retiring in November 2023. According to a post on the Pittsburg PD Facebook page, Wentz “has held various crucial roles, demonstrating his commitment to excellence. From his early days as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, and tactical team member to his role as a Lead Homicide Detective in the Investigations Division, Captain Wentz has consistently displayed professionalism and a relentless pursuit of justice.

His ascent through the ranks, from Sergeant to Lieutenant and ultimately to Captain in 2017, reflects not only his dedication to personal growth, but also his commitment to training and mentoring the next generation of law enforcement professionals. Captain Wentz’s influence extends across every unit within our department, and his leadership and mentoring abilities have been instrumental in shaping the future of our force.

Beyond his notable career achievements, Captain Wentz is a proud graduate of the POST Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute (SLI) and POST Command College. His educational pursuits, coupled with his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice Management, exemplify his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.”

He completed his time with the Antioch Police Department on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. (See related article)

All had previous arrest records

By Antioch Police Department

We’re back again with another cautionary tale! On Wednesday night, Jan. 15, 2025, this trio of sneaky swindlers entered the Sephora store in the Slatten Ranch shopping center with nefarious intentions.

With empty purses this gaggle of grifters began filling their bags with almost $2,000 in make-up products and left without paying. Luckily for us the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department was flying their helicopter over our city and watched the suspects enter other stores.

They were unaware that no amount of concealer would save them from the consequences. All three were quickly located and arrested. One of the sticky finger bandits was found hiding under a table in the Champs store like a game of hide and seek.

One had warrants for theft, one was on probation for theft and the other had multiple theft arrests. They were all booked for multiple felony theft charges. As is customary, their car went to car jail too. (See APD Facebook video)

From Oakley to Hercules; with help from Contra Costa Sheriff’s helicopter, CHP

Kalil Houston still in custody on $70,000 bail, Isaiah J. Mitchell bonded out

By Oakley Police Department

On January 10, 2025, at 9:44PM, Oakley Police Officer F. Williams was on patrol on Main Street near Bridgehead Road. Officer Williams saw a gray Honda Accord with a license plate reported as lost or stolen and belonging on a Lexus. It was also made known to Officer Williams the same Honda with the same license plate had been used during a robbery in Dublin. Officer Williams was joined by Officer R. Hernandez and they attempted to stop the Honda, but it fled at a high rate of speed onto westbound Highway 4. Officers Williams and Hernandez initiated a pursuit and the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff helicopter (STARR) was in the area within a few minutes.

The suspect continued to flee travelling westbound on Highway 4 reaching very high speeds at times. The pursuit continued for several minutes. Due to the nexus of this vehicle to violent crimes, our officers remained engaged in the pursuit all the way to the City of Hercules. The pursuit ultimately ended in the 1900 block of Railroad Avenue when the driver, identified as Kalil Houston (male, 20, Antioch, born 7/6/04) foot bailed from the vehicle. The passenger, identified as Isaiah J. Mitchell (male, 21, Antioch), remained in the vehicle and was taken into custody immediately. Our officers later caught Houston as he was trying to flee the area and took him into custody as well.

Pursuits by their very nature are dangerous and police agencies diligently assess the need to continue them when they occur. Every decision made in a pursuit weighs the seriousness of the incident versus the public’s safety. When a vehicle is associated with a crime(s) of violence, it becomes more critical to apprehend the violator(s).

Our officers found several stolen license plates and a blank key fob in the possession of Houston and Mitchell and fired shell casings could also be seen inside the vehicle. The Honda was towed to be examined for evidence.

During this pursuit, a Black Ford Mustang started pacing our officers, even at the high speeds that were reached, turned its lights off, and tried to block our officers. The driver of the black Mustang intentionally interfered with our officers and placed our officers in a great degree of danger. Our officers will be doing additional follow-up in an attempt to identify the driver of the Mustang.

Houston and Mitchell were both booked into jail for crimes associated with possession of stolen property, conspiracy and felony evading. The Oakley Police Department will be working with the Dublin Police Department in regards to the robbery that occurred in Dublin.

Chief Beard said of this incident, “It does appear as if Houston and Mitchell were going to continue the destructive and violent behavior their vehicle had already previously been involved in. The action of fleeing at high speeds, the propensity to work in concert with others against police officers, having stolen license plates and spent shell casings is not a good look in any scenario. It is my concern a crime of violence was going to be perpetrated against an innocent person(s) in Oakley. I appreciate and respect Officer Williams and Officer Hernandez for keeping the residents of Oakley safe. Officers from the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, the California Highway Patrol and the Hercules Police Department all assisted Officers Williams and Hernandez during this incident, and I extend a personal thank you to each of them.

“The experiences of Officer Williams and Officer Hernandez in this investigation underscores the risks American peace officers face everyday. I am grateful for the service of all peace officers who stand between those who wish to do harm and the rest of society and I am honored to be associated with them.

Stay safe Oakley!”

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot, 11-inch, 175-pound Houston is being held in the West County Detention Facility on $70,000 bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 27 at 8:30 a.m. in Delta Superior Court in Pittsburg.

Also, according to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, Mitchell is Black and as of Jan. 11th, he bonded out of custody. According to localcrimenews.com, Mitchell was arrested on Dec. 22, 2021, by Antioch Police for vandalism – property damage.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Police pursue lead on suspect’s vehicle

By Lt. Joe Njoroge #7052, Antioch Police Field Services Division

Antioch police investigators are searching for the driver behind a deadly hit-and-run collision. On January 14, 2025, at approximately 6:08 p.m., Antioch Police officers responded to a report of a hit-and-run in the 3000 block of Wilbur Avenue. Callers reported that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle, which left the scene.

Officers and paramedics arrived and found an adult female victim approximately 68-year-old unresponsive on the ground. Life-saving measures were attempted, but unfortunately, the victim died. The Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office has provided Antioch Police with the victim’s name. But they are waiting to release it pending notification of next of kin, Sgt. Rob Green shared. She was born in 1957 but had no identification with her.

Traffic accident investigators were called to take over the investigation. The roadway at Hwy 160 was closed for several hours. This investigation is ongoing, and the cause of the collision has not yet been determined. The case is still in the preliminary stages, and the names of the parties involved are not being released at this time. Green also said police have a lead on the suspect’s vehicle and will provide additional information as he has it.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Antioch Police Department non-emergency line at (925) 778-2441 or Traffic Collision Investigator Sergeant Green at (925) 779-6864, email rgreen@antiochca.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Discuss 10% annual water rate increases, set public hearing for March 11

“This is kind of a shock for people, 50% over five years” – District 3 Councilman Don Freitas.

Both councilwomen absent for first meeting of the year

By Allen D. Payton

During the first Antioch City Council meeting of the new year, on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, the new mayor and two members discussed and approved a variety of matters without the input or votes of both councilwomen who did not attend. Those included an agreement with former Interim Chief Brian Addington’s consulting firm for services to the police department and fees for concealed carry weapons. The council also heard a presentation on the process for recruiting a new, permanent police chief and another from the Parks and Recreation Department entitled, “What a Year It’s Been – Celebrating Our Year 2024.”

According to City Manager Bessie Scott, District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker was sick and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson was in Washington D.C. for a conference.

Approves Agreement with Addington’s Consulting Firm for Police Department

After just completing his time as Antioch’s interim police chief last Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, Brian Addington’s company, WBA Consulting was hired as the consultant to the police department to comply with the City’s recent agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice.

As previously reported, the council was asked to hire a “consultant team that can provide support, guidance, and advice in several areas, which will supplement and enhance the Antioch Police Department’s efficiency and effectiveness. The City requires assistance with overall project management for Police Department operations and administration, policy support, and special project implementation for not only day-to-day operations, but also with compliance efforts identified in the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) settlement agreement with the Antioch Police Department and City of Antioch dated January 2, 2025.” (See related article)

WBA Consulting was mentioned as part of his background in an introductory article about Addington when he was hired as interim police chief last February.

Other than one question from District 3 Councilman Don Freitas about the items in the agreement lined through that were eliminated from the final version, without discussion, the council approved the agreement 3-0, with Councilwomen Tamisha Torres-Walker and Monica Wilson absent.

Approves CCW Permit Fees

Under agenda item 6, according to Antioch Police Captain Desmond Bitner, who provided the City staff report to the council about setting fees for handling concealed carry weapons (CCW) permits, the majority of law enforcement agencies in California use software to expedite the process. As of January, under SB2 cities can increase fees. Permits have to be renewed every two years.

“These are basic numbers we’ve assessed and consulted other agencies,” Bittner We’re not making any money on this. We’re just breaking even to cover our costs.”

Only two members of the public spoke on the item, but neither chose to serve as the proponent or opponent for the public hearing which would have afforded them 10 minutes to speak.

“I was not aware what’s really going on,” said a woman who claimed to be a local leader for Gun Owners of America. “I get a little emotional when it comes to my right to carry. I grew up in this town. I left…then I came back. I feel incredibly unsafe in this town.”

“It’s cheaper for me to fly to Texas…to get the training,” she continued. “To hear the fees for me to exercise my constitutional right to carry…is appalling.”

“Police told me the applications are stacked so high, don’t even bother,” she added. “I just want actions, and I want answers. I shouldn’t have to wait a year-and-a-half.”

Resident Greg Farina who identified himself as the president of the Contra Costa Chapter of the California Rifle and Pistol Association said, “I’m very happy the City of Antioch is going through this. I just got my letter from Contra Costa County. It took me 15 months.”

“Yes, it’s expensive. I’m concerned about lower income folks. I will help you do anything and help sell what you’re doing,” he added.

Freitas asked Bittner, “do we actively have applications for the City of Antioch, now?”

“As far as I know, no,” the captain responded. “We averaged about five applications per year. The sheriff’s department processed for us on average 67 per year. We can get the knocked out in 90 days. If the applicant is being diligent in getting things done, we’ll be right there with them.”

“This will not impact the General Fund?” District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha asked. Mayor Ron Bernal responded, “No.”

“We respect the citizens right to carry,” Bittner added.

The council approved the item on a 3-0 vote.

Review Water Rates Study Including 10% per Year Increases & Set Public Hearing

Under Item 7 the council adopted a resolution to set a hearing for March 11th on water rate increases. City staff presented a Water Rates Study showing Antioch has the lowest single family monthly water bills of neighboring cities and a proposed increase of 10% per year on average. The City’s ratepayers get to provide their opinion to the council.

On Nov. 12, 2025, the previous council failed to approve the rate increases on a vote 2-1-1 with Councilwomen Lori Ogorchock and Monica Wilson voting yes, then-Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe voting no, Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker voting to abstain and then-Councilman Mike Barbanica absent. (See Item 8 of the Meeting Minutes)

“If the council should accept these, is the funding sufficient to pay our bills on an annual basis?” Freitas asked.

“Yes,” Tom Pavletic of Pavletic Consulting responded.

The Water Use chart for Calendar Years 2023-29 shows a one percent increase in projected water use for Fiscal Year 2024 but a one percent decrease in FY2025-27 and a two percent decrease in FY2028 and 2029.
“I don’t understand for three consecutive years you’re showing a decrease,” Freitas stated.

“We put 100 new accounts per year in this model. But it’s a matter of conservation. In the past 15 years your single-family user class has reduced 15%,” the consultant responded. “Your rates are going to go up about 10% per year. That’s going to result in conservation.”

“You’ve gone from 375 gallons per year to 250 gallons,” he added.

Bernal stated, “you’re using 100 units per year. That seems a little bit low…for projections.”

“We looked at past models and past growth and that’s what comes in,” Pavletic responded. “When I do water rate studies, I never use the General Plan.”

Freitas asked, “What we’re asking is for an increase of about 10% a year?”

“Yes,” Pavletic responded.

Freitas pressed staff on the debt service for the water department on the 2019 Construction Installment Sale Agreement with the State Water Resources Control Board for the Brackish Water Desalination Plant.
“Antioch is one of the few cities with its own water plant…and we have this new state of the art facility coming online,” Finance Director Dawn Merchant stated.

“For debt service, if we fall below, it’s going to be with us for a long, long time,” Freitas stated. “This is a very dangerous thing to get to for infrastructure financing. Why did we not have rate increases for five years? I don’t get it.”

“There was a number of reasons. Initially and honestly, the water system has enough funds to continue,” said Acting Public Works Director Scott Buenting. “The same time as COVID was going on and giving the residents a break for two, two-year terms.”

“This is kind of a shock for people, 50% over five years,” Freitas stated. “I think we should do things incrementally…when we review the budget.”

“Are we taking into account the entire cost of the (brackish water) project?” Bernal asked. “Yes, Buenting responded.

Asked about the City purchasing less water from the Contra Costa Water District, Buenting responded, “That should be less.”

“Since we’re so close on our ratios we don’t want to have any surprises,” Bernal stated.

“When the water becomes brackish the desalination plant will be operational,” Buenting stated.

“This year?” Freitas asked.

“Yes. This year,” Buenting responded.

“I feel like we have no choice. The consumer cannot deal with these increases,” Freitas stated and made a motion to approve with Rocha later seconding the motion.

Public Comments on Water Rate Increases

“As a consumer, I don’t like it,” said resident Melissa Case. “But Don, you’re a blessing to this conversation. Now, I know where your strengths are. It looks like we have to find to pay our water bills.”

Former Councilwoman Ogorchock spoke next saying, “The council did not approve it. It was one abstention, two yesses and one no. That was the mayor. It wasn’t cost effective for our seniors, and I look out for our seniors.”

She asked about the effect of not voting for it and the possible move of $2 million into the enterprise fund.

Resident and local business owner Jim Lanter said the council had the responsibility for, “public safety, budget. We’ve got to make ourselves fiscally smart. I appreciate the questions, the tough questions. But nobody can afford 10%. I wish we had two-and-a-half percent a year.”

“Those little changes do matter. I would encourage the City to bring forward these rate hikes…and explore rate subsidies. We just have to fill that gap. There are plenty of opportunities out there,” Freitas stated.

“If there is any alternative flexibility for our seniors on fixed incomes,” Rocha mentioned. “This got kicked down the road. So, now we have to address what didn’t get done. But if we can look at our seniors and those who face the biggest struggle.”

“It gets to be a complicated legal issue if you use the enterprise fund to provide subsidies as it is a tax on other ratepayers,” Freitas mentioned.

“I do appreciate your expertise from your experience in the water industry,” Rochas said to Freitas who served on the CCWD Board for 16 years. “We probably should have taken action in 2023. But it is what it is and we have to address it.”

“I just want to make sure General Fund money has not been used to prop up the water fund,” Bernal asked.

“No,” Buenting responded.

“I think that 1.2% needs to be mentioned up front. For the public to understand,” Freitas added.

“I’d like to see something in the staff report to reflect what happens if we don’t pass this,” Bernal said to City Manager Bessie Scott.

The council then approved the process 3-0 which will include Hearing Notices being mailed out to account holders who get to provide input on the proposed rate changes. If written protests against the proposed rate changes are presented by a majority of the parcels or accounts, the city council will not enact the proposed changes. If a majority don’t protest, the council will then vote on a resolution to adjust rates and charges.

If approved, the new FY25 rates will begin May 1st and on Jan. 1, 2026, the new rates for FY 26 will be implemented. Then on July 1st of the following three fiscal years the rates for those years will be implemented.

Meeting Extended for Up to an Hour

The council then voted 3-0 to extend the meeting until midnight, one hour past the normal ending time of 11:00 p.m.

Discusses Annual Financial Reports

Under Item 9 the council considered the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024, inclusive of the City of Antioch Single Audit Reports for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024.

“We were deficit spending for the past several fiscal years. We broke even this year. Do we have reserves or are they decreasing? Are we in a financial bind?” Freitas asked.

“As of today, we are not in a financial bind,” Merchant responded.

“We are putting together the 2025-27 budget. I think we will still have that deficit. We are still pulling together the numbers. We will be drawing down on our reserves. The budget stabilization fund which are using the fill the gap should only be used one time,” she continued.

“The ARPA money from the pandemic that ends in April, right?” Freitas asked.

“They had to be obligated by the end of December. But we have until 2026 to spend them. There are some programs that end, like Opportunity Village, that contract ends in April,” Merchant responded referring to the homeless motel on East 18th Street. “We have to look and see how much was allocated to that to continue. Once the money is spent from ARPA it’s gone.”

Freitas asked about claims during the campaign of a $90 billion reserve fund.

“That money is there but you can see $46.4 million of the Budget Stabilization Fund is committed. You really need to look at the $36.5 million,” Merchant stated.

“That’s the really true reserve,” Freitas stated. “Not the $90 million.”

“It’s really supposed to be for one-time projects,” Merchant stated.

“As we go into the budget we have transparency,” Freitas requested of Bernal. “These are real impacts to real people. I’d like the opportunity to educate the staff…the public. If there isn’t any money those projects are in jeopardy.”

“I think lumping the two funds together is misleading,” Rocha stated. “When you look at the ARPA funds which is about 20% of our budget…that’s a significant amount. We’re going to have to look to work with the County. We have a responsibility to be fiscally solvent and spending down our reserves is not the way.

If we can continue the services to our unhoused community maybe we can take housing off the table.”
“Hearing some of the things, tonight, unless we come together and have partnerships in the region, there are going to have to be some serious cuts,” the District 2 councilman continued. “I know that’s not popular. But I didn’t sign up to be popular. We’re going to have to look at grant writing.
Bernal then mentioned amounts of the net pension liability and asked, “Can you explain what the net pension liability is?”

“Is what CalPERS calculates the ultimate liability we have to pay current employees until their descendants are no longer alive,” Merchant responded. They’re calculated on mortality rates.”

“Other post-employment benefits you provide medical…for those employees under that plan…they’re estimated we have to pay until those employees are deceased,” she added.

“Can we break out that amount…on an annualized cost?” Bernal asked. “Yes,” Merchant responded.

The council then voted 3-0 to receive and file the report.

Item 11, the proposed emergency City staffing positions, was tabled until the next council meeting.

Following comments by the city manager offering “kudos” to a variety of City staff members and committee reports by the councilmembers the meeting adjourned at 11:27 p.m.