Gun and ammunition confiscated during arrest on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Photo: Brentwood PD
Both already out of custody one – a former Deer Valley High cheerleader – on bond, the other with no charges filed
By Brentwood Police Department
On Sunday night, March 10, 2024, a Brentwood officer conducted a routine traffic stop in the area of Lone Tree Way and Fairside Way. The stop was initiated due to multiple vehicle code violations observed by the officer.
During the course of the stop, the officer found an un-serialized loaded high-capacity firearm in the backseat of the vehicle. As a result, 19-year-old Daekaylah Leiloni Little and 20-year-old Louis Edward Quinn, Jr., both of Antioch, were placed under arrest and transported to the Martinez Detention Facility for booking.
According to localcrimenews.com they were charged with carrying a loaded firearm on Person or in vehicle while in public place, carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle and a large capacity magazine.
At the Nick Rodriguez Community Center, 213 F Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. Hosted by the Contra Costa Health Department’s Violence Prevention Program and Gun Violence Prevention Coalition, and Bridge Builders to the New Generation.
According the CCHealth’s website, The Violence Prevention Program uses a public health approach to prevent and reduce gun violence in Contra Costa County by providing high-risk populations with social support and services informed by evidence-based practices and equity principles. The program, established in October 2022, was made possible through a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Community-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative.
The Violence Prevention Program is partnering with community stakeholders to develop a Gun Violence Reduction Strategic Plan for the county. The plan will focus on developing social-emotional learning programs for at-risk youth, building workforce development opportunities and career paths, and working with communities to improve the physical environment, neighborhood appearance and community engagement.
Currently, the program is working with the nonprofit consultant on a landscape analysis of the county’s existing violence prevention efforts.
The Gun Violence Prevention Coalition is a diverse, community and multi-agency-driven collaborative supported by Contra Costa Health’s Violence Prevention Program. The Coalition seeks to increase collaboration among residents, community partners, and agencies who are interested in and are actively involved in reducing gun violence and advancing gun-violence prevention policies. The Coalition’s goal is to prevent and reduce the incidence of gun violence and its associated negative community and health impacts.
Please help us identify an unknown suspect who was recorded on video stealing a vehicle and later dumping it. The vehicle was recovered near East 6th Street and ‘A’ Street, and the suspect is seen on camera walking away from that area afterwards.
If you have any information on the identity of this suspect, please contact Community Service Officer Collazo at (925) 778-2441, or via email: jcollazo@antiochca.gov, and reference case #24-1991. Any individuals coming forth with information can remain anonymous.
Over 400,000 have signed petitions to place the measure that will stop theft and fentanyl crimes onto the November 2024 ballot
Gains support of Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft, over 30 mayors & local leaders
Get petition to help gather signatures below
Over 400,000 California voters have signed the petition to place the Homeless, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act on the November 2024 ballot.
“We have seen a record number of voters seeking to sign the petition to place this measure on the ballot – sometimes waiting in line to do so,” said campaign chair Greg Totten who is also chief executive officer for the California District Attorneys Association. “This is consistent with polling that has shown that 70% of likely California voters support the Homeless, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act. The measure is commonsense and injects accountability back into our laws for repeat offenders of theft and for crimes involving fentanyl and other serious drug crimes.”
Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft endorses proposed initiative to reform Proposition 47
Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft (CARRT) announced last week its support for the proposed initiative called the Homeless, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act.
“Our current system puts Californians at risk as crime continues to rise without any real repercussions. That is why Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft is supporting the Homeless, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Initiative,” said Matt Ross, spokesman for Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft.
“The initiative focuses on repeat offenders of retail crime. It provides an opportunity for those with substance abuse and mental health problems to seek help through diversion programs. At the same time, it also ensures that there are real consequences for individuals who continue to break the law.”
“Moreover, this initiative is a significant step towards putting an end to retail and residential theft in both Main Street and neighborhood areas.”
According to data from the Public Policy Institute of California, there has been a significant increase in commercial shoplifting, with a 28.7% rise in 2022 alone. Commercial burglary and robbery have also seen an increase of 5.8% and 9%, respectively. Furthermore, a recent survey revealed that 88% of retailers are experiencing more aggressive and violent shoplifters compared to the previous year.
CARRT is a diverse coalition consisting of over 200 business associations, local groups, and victim organizations. Their main goal is to advocate for California officials to take action and equip law enforcement with the necessary tools to reduce theft. Prominent members of the coalition include local Chambers of Commerce, California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, California Business Roundtable, California Black Chamber of Commerce, California Grocers Association, California Peace Officers Association, Crime Victims United, Klaas Kids Foundation, and the National Federation of Independent Business.
CARRT has been engaging in discussions with local officials, law enforcement, and legislators to ensure that they comprehend the true impact of retail and residential crime. They aim to provide public safety officials with additional resources to effectively address this problem. For more information about CARRT, please visit their website at www.carrt.org.
Over 30 mayors and local elected leaders endorse Prop 47 reform initiative
Bipartisan support continues to grow with over 30 mayors and local elected officials from across the state have endorsed the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act. The measure will increase community safety by holding those who repeatedly steal or traffic hard drugs accountable. The measure has collected 75% of the needed signatures from California voters to place it on the November ballot.
“Our city has continued to prioritize safety for our residents, businesses and visitors. We realize that the laws must adapt to the circumstances we see on our streets today. Retail theft and drug offenders repeat their crimes without any accountability or consequence which is why I am supporting this ballot measure,” said Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock. “We need smart changes to Prop 47 so that we can stop crime and hold repeat offenders accountable. Consequences act as a deterrent while at the same time, this measure prioritizes effective drug treatment and rehabilitation programs. This ballot measure will provide the tools our city needs to improve community safety.”
Local mayors and elected officials from every region across the state continue to endorse a measure that balances accountability and rehabilitation programs.
Bay Area Elected Leaders
Mayor Matt Mahan, City of San Jose
Mayor London Breed, City and County of San Francisco
Mayor Lily Mei, City of Fremont
Mayor Carmen Montano, City of Milpitas
Vice Mayor Renee Golder, City of Santa Cruz
Councilmember Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson, City of Santa Cruz
Former Mayor Ryan Coonerty, City of Santa Cruz
Vice Mayor Sherry Hu, City of Dublin
Councilmember Liang Chao, City of Cupertino (title for identification purposes only)
Councilmember Kitty Moore, City of Cupertino(title for identification purposes only)
Mayor Yan Zhao, City of Saratoga
Councilmember Rishi Kumar, City of Saratoga
Councilmember Javed Ellahie, City of Monte Sereno
Northern & Central CA Elected Leaders
Mayor Jerry Dyer, City of Fresno
Mayor Karen Goh, City of Bakersfield
Supervisor Rich Desmond, Sacramento County
Southern California Elected Leaders
Mayor Phil Brock, City of Santa Monica Mayor Mark Arapostathis, City of La Mesa Mayor Richard Bailey, City of Coronado Mayor Keith Blackburn, City of Carlsbad
Mayor John Franklin, City of Vista Mayor Lesa Heebner, City of Solana Beach Mayor Rebecca Jones, City of San Marcos Mayor Tony Kranz, City of Encinitas Mayor John McCann, City of Chula Vista Mayor John Minto, City of Santee
Mayor Ron Morrison, City of National City Mayor Esther Sanchez, City of Oceanside Mayor Steve Vaus, City of Poway Mayor Bill Wells, City of El Cajon Mayor Dane White, City of Escondido
A survey of likely California voters found that 70% of voters support the title and summary of the Homeless, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act. The overwhelming support was consistent across every demographic and geography including the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Furthermore, 89% of likely voters support amending Proposition 47 for stronger penalties for those engaged in repeated retail theft and trafficking hard drugs like fentanyl. The measure also includes incentives to complete drug and mental health treatment for people who are addicted to hard drugs. The survey was conducted online from November 8-November 13, 2023, with a margin of error of +/- 2.28%.
To qualify the measure for the November 2024 ballot, the law requires 546,651 valid signatures. The campaign is required to notify the Secretary of State after 25% of the signatures from California voters have been collected.
New Antioch Interim Police Chief Brian Addington is administered his ceremonial oath of office by Deputy City Clerk Christina Garcia and followed by the pinning of the chief’s badge by his wife, Lori, Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 27, 2024. Photos by Allen D. Payton
Officially sworn in Monday before starting in his new position that day
“With a new day, there’s a renewed hope and we will rise to the challenge and achieve positive changes.” – Interim Antioch Police Chief Brian Addington
By Allen D. Payton
Antioch’s new Interim Police Chief Brian Addington was given a ceremonial oath of office Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 27, 2024, inside the breezeway of City Hall. It was attended by Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe, all four council members, city department heads, current and retired police personnel from Antioch and Pittsburg, as well as two chiefs and a former chief from other agencies in the county, plus, family and friends.
Addington began work in his new position on Monday, Feb. 26 and said he was sworn in that morning.
Addington signs his oath of office with the help of Deputy City Clerk Garcia.
During Tuesday’s ceremony, following welcome remarks by Hernandez-Thorpe and an introduction of the new interim chief by Acting City Manager and Economic Development Director Kwame Reed, Deputy City Clerk Christina Garcia administered the oath of office and Addington’s wife, Lori pinned the chief’s badge to his chest. He left the breezeway and entered the Council Chambers for a moment, returning with a bouquet of flowers which he presented to his wife.
Addington then shared his thoughts about his new, temporary role saying he recalled Councilman Mike Barbanica was the first to reach out to him. “I thought he was joking. I chuckled. I said, ‘nah, I don’t think so.’”
Then Addington said he was asked by a recruiter about the interim position last June, which he declined and said he didn’t know anyone who was interested. But when Addington was asked around November if he would reconsider, he responded, “I couldn’t say no. Somebody needed to step up.”
“I’m humbled to work here and to lend my hand in stabilizing this organization and taking the next steps that are needed to improve,” Addington stated. “Obviously, we need to increase staff and just as importantly, retain the dedicated women and men who are tirelessly working, here keeping our community safe.”
“My focus will be on assuring we have sufficient resources to keep our residents and businesses safe,” he continued. “I’m committed to being open and transparent both inside the department and with our community.”
“Accountability and consistency will serve as the foundational pillars for us to enhance our culture, ensuring continuous improvement and integrity in all that we do,” Addington stated. “I want every in Antioch to know the police department is here for you.”
Interim Chief Addington speaks following his ceremonial oath of office.
“We will have a renewed focus on customer service,” he continued. “Make no mistake, I have very high expectations for everyone who works at the Antioch Police Department, and I will hold them accountable.”
Addington then introduced his wife and family members and acknowledged Pittsburg Police Chief Steve Albanese and San Pablo’s Interim Police Chief Brian Bubar. (For those who remember him, Albanese is the son of Joe Albanase who was a Antioch Police Reserve Officer for 20 years and very involved in youth sports in the community).
Addington then closed by saying, “I’m an optimist” and shared two of 13 leadership principles he learned from one of his heroes, former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, and tries to live by. “Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier and it ain’t as bad as it looks or ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning” the interim chief shared. “I think this especially applies to the Antioch Police Department as we face our current challenges.”
“With a new day, there’s a renewed hope and we will rise to the challenge and achieve positive changes, and I’m excited to be involved in leading these efforts,” Addington added.
(Watch video for Addington’s entire comments beginning at the 9-minute mark.)
Unlike the grand oath of office celebration for Steve Ford, Antioch’s last interim police chief to be sworn in two years ago, the ceremony was not publicly announced and a much more muted affair.
Reed said, “It’s designed to be a small event.” Asked why and reminded of Ford’s ceremony, the acting city manager responded, “Neither Chief Addington nor I want that.”
Mayor Hernandez-Thorpe wearing a Dashiki during Chief Addington’s ceremonial oath of office on Feb. 27, 2024. (Photo by Allen D. Payton) The Pan African flag hangs on the Antioch City Council dais during their meeting on Feb. 13, 2024. Video screenshot.
Hernandez-Thorpe, who spoke first during the ceremony, and Mayor Pro Tem and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson were dressed in African-style clothing. Asked about his clothing and if it was for Black History Month, the mayor said it was Dashiki from Nigeria and it was because the council would be raising the Pan African flag (also known as the Afro-American flag and Black Liberation flag, as has been displayed on the council dais during the Feb. 13th meeting) on the City Hall flagpole during the council meeting Tuesday night.
It is expected Addington will serve until a permanent city manager is hired, following the current nationwide search, who will in turn hire a permanent police chief. Read more about Interim Chief Addington, here.
By Sgt. Matthew Koch #3018, Antioch Police Department Investigations Bureau
On Saturday, February 24, 2024, at approximately 5:12 am, Antioch Police patrol officers were dispatched to the 1700 block of Observation Way for a male who had been shot seated inside of a vehicle. Officers arrived on scene and located a 16-year-old male from Pittsburg with at least one gunshot wound. Officers on scene provided life-saving measures until relieved by ConFire and paramedics. The male victim was transported to an area hospital where he ultimately succumbed his injuries and was pronounced deceased.
Officers discovered the shooting took place in the 2000 block of Tupleo Way. Officers canvassed the area and located the scene. The Antioch Police Department’s Investigations Bureau, consisting of Crime Scene Investigators and detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit took over the investigation. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be provided.
No other information is being released at this time including the names of the victim or suspect.
Additional inquiries or information can be directed to Antioch Police Detective Duffy at (925) 779-6884 or by emailing aduffy@antiochca.gov. Anonymous tips or information about this – or any other incident – can be sent via text to 274637 (CRIMES) with the keyword ANTIOCH.
“The CHP continues to deploy officers alongside local law enforcement agencies in high crime areas.” – CHP spokesman Jaime Coffee
By Allen D. Payton
Following the deployment of 120 CHP officers in Oakland for five days earlier this month, resulting in 71 arrests, CHP Media Relations personnel were asked if the governor would be sending any officers would be provided to Antioch to supplement its depleted force due to the two investigations.
On Wednesday, February 21 she responded, “The California Highway Patrol (CHP) continues to provide service to all California communities, regardless of location, and constantly strives to enhance public safety through community engagement and partnerships. The CHP has always maintained a presence in Contra Costa County, and we are working with city leadership to determine if the CHP can further support the city of Antioch through normal CHP operations.
The initial temporary surge within the city of Oakland occurred between February 5th and February 9th. Future surges are expected. The CHP continues to deploy officers alongside local law enforcement agencies in high crime areas.”
Acting Chief Joe Vigil and APD media relations officers were asked if the department had requested CHP officers for Antioch to supplement the force with so many officers currently on administrative leave. Vigil responded, “Yes.”
Asked if he had received a response to his request from either the governor’s office or the CHP, Vigil did not respond.
As of Feb. 1, Antioch had 31officers on paid administrative leave, including those being investigated by the FBI and Contra Costa DA’s Office, and those in the racist text message scandal. As of Feb. 13, with the four new officers sworn in, that brought the total number of active sworn officers on the force to 54.
Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Retired Pittsburg Police Chief Brian Addington has been appointed as Antioch’s interim police chief. Photo: Pittsburg PD
Starts Monday, February 26, 2024
“We’re very lucky to have him as our chief.” – Councilman & retired Pittsburg Lt. Mike Barbanica
Police Officers Association “excited to learn” of appointment
Antioch, CA: Acting Antioch City Manager Kwame Reed has selected retired Pittsburg Police Chief William Brian Addington to serve as Interim Chief of Police until a permanent chief is appointed. Chief Addington brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of East Contra Costa County law enforcement to this leadership role. He has a proven track record of leadership and dedication to public safety that are essential to guiding the department during this transitional period. Chief Addington’s first day in the office will be Monday, February 26, 2024.
Chief Addington, who retired in July 2022, understands the challenges and opportunities facing law enforcement in our community. With over a decade of experience as the Police Chief in neighboring Pittsburg, he has demonstrated his commitment to serving the residents of East Contra Costa County with integrity and professionalism.
“We are confident that Chief Addington’s leadership will enhance the safety and security of our community,” Reed said. “His extensive knowledge of local policing issues and his strong ties with the East County community make him the perfect choice to lead the Antioch Police Department during this interim period.”
“Retired Chief Addington will come to Antioch with a strong ability to make tough decisions under difficult circumstances,” said Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe. “Until the hiring of a permanent chief of police, he’ll work with City Hall to continue to rebuild police staffing levels and decrease 911 response times.”
Addington expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Interim Chief of Police, stating, “I am honored to join the dedicated men and women of the Antioch Police Department. We will work tirelessly – with a renewed focus on serving our community – and upholding the department’s mission of protecting and serving the residents of Antioch with integrity, compassion, and professionalism.”
UPDATE: According to City of Antioch Human Resources Director Ana Cortez, “Interim Police Chief Addington’s compensation will be $128.14 per hour.” That amounts to about $5,125 per week for 40-hours or work.
When reached for comment District 2 Councilman and retired Pittsburg Police Lt. Mike Barbanica said, “I’m very supportive of Chief Addington. He’s a great addition to the APD. We’re very lucky to have him as our chief. I worked with him for many years at the PPD. In fact, he worked for me when. When I was a Bureau Commander and I had the pick of the list, Brian Addington was my first choice. He was my right-hand person. He’s an outstanding administrator. He’s the right choice.”
“Addington and I worked together ridding the department of corruption, investigating officers who were falsifying arrest reports and we ended up removing the officer from the police department,” the councilman added.
Police Officers Association “Excited to Learn” of Appointment
Antioch Police Officers Association Vice President Sgt. Loren Bledsoe was asked for comment about Addington’s appointment. He responded, “The APOA was excited to learn that Chief Addington was selected for the position of Interim Chief of Police. APD has always shared a strong working relationship with the Pittsburg Police Department, and we look forward to the opportunity to support the mission and vision of Chief Addington here, at APD.”
About Brian Addington
According to a press release from the Pittsburg Police Department when Addington retired, “In 1994, Officer Brian Addington made, what we think, was the best decision of his career. He joined the Pittsburg Police Department after having served for a year and a half with the Suisun City Police Department. That decision left a lasting mark on our department and our Pittsburg community as he rose through the ranks to become our Police Chief serving in that role for the last decade.
Chief Addington started as an officer in patrol on the Strategic Enforcement Team (SET) where he served for several years focused on reducing street-level crimes. From there, he became an undercover detective in the Narcotics Unit. In 1998, he was promoted to Sergeant where he trained and mentored officers in a wide variety of assignments. Chief Addington’s rise through the ranks included a promotion to Lieutenant in 2004 and then Captain in 2010.
He served as our Public Information Officer as well as duties in patrol, training, narcotics, criminal and administrative investigations and so much more.
As Police Chief, he focused on transparency and breaking down barriers between police and the community we’re sworn to serve. His modern approach to law enforcement strategies resulted in both a 10% decrease in crime and more than a 100% increase in diversity among the ranks of the Pittsburg Police Department. These are achievements that will last for decades to come.
Chief Addington brought respect and a broader footprint for the Pittsburg Police Department through his service and leadership in many roles including membership with the FBI National Academy Associates, California Police Chiefs Association, and the International Association of Police Chiefs.”
Addington’s Business, Education and Personal Background
According to his LinkedIn profile, since retiring, Addington founded WBA Consulting and Investigations, LLC and is Chief Operations Officer for Vacaville-based Cole Pro Media.
When reached for comment Addington said, “I work part-time for Cole Pro Media which works with law enforcement agencies on communications strategy.”
His profile on the WBA website offers more about his experience and knowledge. “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.”
He was able to retire at age 50 under the previous compensation package for many law enforcement agencies in the state, including the CHP and Antioch Police Department. Addington said he will be 52 in March.
“My intent was always to work after I retired,” he stated.
Addington is married, and together with his wife they have a total of eight children “in a blended family.”
He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in organizational leadership, both from Chapman University. In addition, Addington graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2012 and the California POST (Police Officer Standards and Training program) Command College in 2011.
He’s been a board member with the Pittsburg Police Activities League since 2014.
Asked why he goes by Brian, Addington shared, “My dad was William Calvin Addington, and I’m William Brian. My mom called me Brian. So, I just go by my middle name.”
Addington said he was born in San Gabriel in the L.A. area and his family moved to Concord when he was three years old.
“We then moved when I was eight to Fairfield. So, I grew up in Solano County,” he added.
While he officially starts Monday, Reed was asked if Addington will be sworn in that day or during next Tuesday’s council meeting. He responded, “for the Oath of Office we are planning that now with it being tentatively set some time Tuesday afternoon.”
