Archive for the ‘Police & Crime’ Category

Annual National Drug Take Back Day Saturday, Oct. 26

Friday, October 25th, 2024

By Antioch Police Department

Join us this Saturday, October 26th, from 10 am to 2 pm at the DEA Take Back event! Dispose of your unused medications safely and anonymously at convenient local drop-off locations nationwide. Locate a collection site near you: www.DEATakeBack.com.

Solid and liquid medications may be disposed. No medical sharps will be accepted.

Where: Antioch Police Department
300 L Street, Antioch
Inside the front lobby
From 10:00am to 2:00 pm.

DNA evidence leads to arrest of 2023 Antioch burglary suspect in Redding

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024
Burglary and stolen vehicle suspect KC Allen Moore of Antioch was arrested by Redding Police. Photos: Antioch PD

The Wheels of Justice never stop

UPDATE: Details on suspect with history of arrests, DNA evidence

By Antioch Police Department

Last year, Officer Kawalya was sent to investigate a burglary where a vehicle had been stolen! During his investigation, he located a key item of evidence. That item had the suspect’s DNA which the Contra Costa Sheriff’s crime lab was able to match. Officer Kawalya authored a warrant for the suspect and the search was on!

He thought he got away but you’re never out of reach of the long arms of the law. Thanks to our friends at the Redding Police Department, they were able to arrest him on the warrant and he was transported back to APD to face charges.

UPDATE: According to Lt. Desmond Bittner, the suspect’s name is, “K.C. Moore, age 42. He’s from Antioch, born and raised. The incident occurred in March 2023.”

Bittner also shared, “officers recovered DNA from the swabs of the steering wheel and shifting knob in the car that was stolen.”

“Moore was charged with burglary and vehicle theft,” he added.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, Moore’s middle name is Allen and as of Oct. 17 he had bonded out of custody.

According to localcrimenews.com, Moore has a history of arrests by multiple agencies dating back to 2014 for crimes including previous vehicle thefts, assault with a deadly weapon or assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, multiple weapon and drug charges, and possession of burglar’s tools.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Antioch Police ask public’s help to ID shoplifting suspects

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024
Surveillance video screenshots of five shoplifting suspects at the Rite Aid store on E. 18th Street in Antioch. Source: Antioch PD


By Antioch Police Department

We are currently investigating multiple shoplifting incidents at the Rite Aid on East 18th Street. If you recognize or can identify these individuals, please reach out to Officer Tryner at (925) 779-6900 ext 86609 or via email at rtryner@antiochca.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous, and any information provided will be greatly appreciated. Refer to PD Case #24-009352

We want to thank our community for your continued collaboration and support in helping us keep Antioch safe. Your assistance in cases like this is invaluable and makes a difference. Thank you!

SF police arrest Mission District homicide suspect in Antioch

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024

Has history of arrests including for pre-meditated murder, false imprisonment by violence, assault

By San Francisco Police Department

On July 24, 2024, at approximately 5:41 p.m., San Francisco Police officers from Mission Station responded to 16th and Mission streets regarding a shooting. Officers arrived on scene and located an adult male victim suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Officers rendered aid and medics arrived on scene and transported the victim to the hospital for life-threatening injuries. Despite the lifesaving efforts of the emergency responders and medical staff, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was declared deceased in the hospital.

The SFPD Homicide Detail is leading this investigation. Investigators developed probable cause to obtain arrest and search warrants regarding the murder.

On October 13, 2024, the SFPD Community Violence Reduction Team located and arrested a 37-year-old male, Luis Rebolledo, on the 600 block of Shaddick Drive in Antioch, California.

Rebolledo was transported to San Francisco County Jail and was booked for his arrest warrant for the homicide (187(a) PC).

According to the SF County Sheriff’s Office, he’s being held on no bail and is also charged with concealed firearm on a person, carrying a loaded firearm, possession of a firearm by a felon, participation in a criminal street gang, possession of ammunition and attempted second degree robbery.

According to localcrimenews.com, the six-foot tall, 157-pound Rebolledo has a history of arrests dating back to 2015, including for pre-meditated murder, false imprisonment by violence, assault with a deadly weapon or assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, assault with any means of force likely to produce great bodily injury, multiple gun charges, DUI, hit-and-run and an usual charge of manufacture, importing or selling a billy, blackjack, sandbag, etc., which are considered leaded or other similar weapons.

On October 15, 2024, the SFPD Community Violence Reduction Team located and arrested a 30-year-old female, Giovanna Ramirez-Hernandez, in San Francisco. She was booked for attempted extortion and other charges related to the case.

Although an arrest has been made, this is an open and active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the SFPD at 1-415-575-4444 or Text a Tip to TIP411 and begin the message with SFPD. You may remain anonymous. SFPD Case# 240462539

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Woman missing from outside Sutter Delta Medical Center in Antioch since Saturday, Oct. 19

Sunday, October 20th, 2024

Two Pittsburg armed robbery suspects arrested in Antioch early Wednesday

Thursday, October 17th, 2024
The two AK-47’s including one fully loaded (top) and the Glock found in the suspects’ vehicle early Wednesday morning, Oct. 16, 2024. Photos: APD

Found with two AK-47s, one fully loaded, and Glock with extended magazine

By Antioch Police Department

On October 15th, at approximately 11:00 PM, the Pittsburg Police Departmentissued a BOLO (Be on the Lookout) for suspects involved in an armed robbery, reported to be carrying a handgun and an AK-47 rifle.

Around 1:30 AM on October 16th, Antioch PD responded to a disturbance in the parking lot of 320 W 20th Street. Officers encountered a white Chrysler 300 and observed a suspected controlled substance in the vehicle. During the investigation, two individuals were detained, and officers discovered a fully loaded AK-47 rifle and a Glock handgun with an extended magazine. Another AK-47 rifle was found in a backpack.

Pittsburg PD arrived and confirmed the suspects as those involved in the robbery and recovered the stolen necklace from the robbery. Pittsburg PD took custody of the suspects, their vehicle, and the firearms.

Thanks to outstanding police work, three dangerous weapons were taken off the streets!

Three teen shoplifting suspects arrested in Antioch Sunday

Tuesday, October 15th, 2024
Antioch Sgt. Rob Green (center) and two other officers recover stolen items from the suspects’ car on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024. Photos: APD

By Antioch Police Department

Shoutout to the eagle-eyed citizens who helped APD apprehend an organized retail theft crew on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024.

Three juvenile subjects, between the ages of 14 and 16, were arrested after stealing $5,000 worth of merchandise from Sephora in the Slatten Ranch Shopping Center on Lone Tree Way in Antioch. One of the individuals had an outstanding warrant for retail theft. Great work, community and APD!

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Antioch Police add three to the force, promote one

Monday, October 14th, 2024
New Antioch Police Captain John Miller, Lt. Joe Njoroge and Officer Junior Pen and newly promoted Sgt. Dan Fachner were given their oaths of office by Interim Chief Brian Addington. Photos by Allen D. Payton

New captain, lieutenant and officer join department, Fachner moves up to sergeant

“What an exciting time to join the Antioch Police Department. These new outstanding additions represent the department’s future, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to help shape our path forward.”- Interim Police Chief Brian Addington

By Allen D. Payton and Interim Antioch Police Chief Brian Addington

The Antioch Police Department added three more to the force and promoted one from within during an oath of office ceremony on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, led by Interim Chief Brian Addington, the sixth during his time in the position. He swore in Captain John Miller, the former police chief of Winters, CA, Lieutenant Joe Njoroge, a lateral from the Walnut Creek Police Department, new Officer Junior Pen and newly promoted Sergeant Dan Fachner.

The standing room only event held inside the Antioch Police Facility’s Community Room was attended by new City Manager Bessie Scott, City Attorney Thomas Loyd Smith, officers from the Antioch, Walnut Creek and Stockton Police Departments, as well as family and friends of the four men.

“It’s not an easy process to become an officer or get promoted,” Addington stated mentioning the application and oral board process. “If you make it high enough on the list you do a polygraph with an outside polygrapher, then a background of your entire life by an outside investigator. Then an interview with me, then a psychological exam, which is a battery of tests, followed by a psychologist approved by P.O.S.T. The final step is a physical examination by a medical doctor in compliance with POST guidelines to be an officer. All the candidates here, successfully completed all of that and surpassed the other applicants for the positions.”

“I am honored to welcome you to this special occasion, where we celebrate the swearing-in of new officers and promotion of dedicated members,” the Chief stated. “One comes from within our ranks here at Antioch, and two who served honorably with other agencies and are now joining us.”

“Today marks a significant milestone – not only for those standing before us but also for our police department as we continue to rebuild and renew our commitment to a higher standard of public service,” Addington continued.

“These officers have distinguished themselves through their hard work, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the community they serve,” the Chief said. “Their achievements reflect their readiness to take on greater responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to this department’s future. Each has answered the call to serve with integrity and professionalism, even in the face of significant challenges.”

“As we recognize their accomplishments today, we also reaffirm our collective mission to foster a culture of accountability and excellence,” he continued. “We will ensure that every action we take reflects the principles of fairness and constitutional policing. Together, we are committed to building a department the community can trust – one that is not only responsive to the present but also grounded in ideals that safeguard the future.”

“A special welcome to our most honored guests – all the family and friends joining us today. We know the sacrifices you have made to get your loved one to this point, and I want you to know that they have not gone unnoticed,” Addington stated.

“I mentioned rebuilding the department, I want to provide some prospect to this – and highlight the outstanding work our recruitment teams have been doing,” the Chief shared. “We currently have six new officers in the Field Training Program (including Pen) and 19 recruits in police academies. The first two will graduate next week. Six more officers will begin their academy journey next month, and several lateral officers are in the hiring process.

“What an exciting time to join the Antioch Police Department These new outstanding additions represent the department’s future, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to help shape our path forward,” he added.

Bios

Addington introduced each of the four men and provided their backgrounds.

New APD Captain Miller is congratulated and receives his pin from Chief Addington.

Captain John Miller

“Captain Miller began his law enforcement career in 1984 as a Cadet with the Contra Costa County Sherriff’s Department. He became a Reserve Deputy Sheriff serving in Detention and on Patrrol and joined the Vacaville Police Department as a full-time police officer where he served for six years. During this time with Vacaville, he was a K9 handler, SWAT Team member, Honor Guard member, and Cadet Advisor.

“Captain Miller then served with the Vallejo Police Department for nearly 10 years, promoting to Corporal then Sergeant. He served as a Beat Health Officer in the Community Services Division employing the Community Oriented Policing and Problem-Solving philosophy, the Department Training Supervisor, SWAT Team Leader, and Department Rangemaster, overseeing all use of force training and equipment. His other duties at Vallejo included Cadet Advisor and Honor Guard. He went to the Pacific Grove Police Department Police as a Commander where he served for nearly four years as the second-in-command of the department. He was also the regional SWAT team Tactical Commander. Captain Miller was hired as the Chief of Police of the Winters Police Department in July 2016, where he has served for over eight years.

“Over his career, Captain Miller has been awarded the Medal of Valor, two Medals of Merit and a Medal of Good Conduct, 10851 Award for recovering stolen vehicles, among many other commendations.

“Captain Miller earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Personnel Administration and Industrial Relations from Cal-State Hayward (now East Bay) and his Master’s degree in Public Administration with Honors, from Golden Gate University. He has attended the FBI National Academy, California POST Command College and California Police Captain’s Association Executive Leadership Institute.

“Captain Miller also taught at the Napa Valley Criminal Justice Center’s Basic Police Academy for several years teaching firearms, force options simulator, use of force law and weapons law. Captain Miller currently serves on the California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) Professional Development Committee, represents CPCA on the POST Instructor Standards Advisory Committee and is a facilitator of the CPCA Second in Command Course.

“Captain Miller has two adult children and was active in their lives as a Cub Scout Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster and a 4-H leader. His son earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and his daughter earned a Bronze Award in 4-H.

Captain Miller is an avid outdoorsman. He dove for abalone and spearfished on California’s north coast. He is also SCUBA certified and has dived in warm water destinations such as Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Belie, Jamaica and Hawaii.

Fun Fact: Captain Miller has back packed into the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana four times to hunt elk. “The Bob,” as it is known, is one of the largest nearly untouched wilderness areas in the Lower 48. He was thrown twice by horses, and after those experiences, he packed in last year on foot using pack llamas.

“We’re very excited to lure him over to the APD as a captain,” the chief added.

Addington handed Miller his pin and said, “His uniform wasn’t ready yet, but we didn’t want to wait because we need him.”

Miller later said he didn’t have anyone there to pin him as he wasn’t expecting such a grand ceremony. “At Winters, we were just sworn in during a council meeting, given a handshake and told to ‘get to work,’” he said with a laugh.

Lt. Joe Njoroge is pinned by his wife and son.

Lt. Joe Njoroge (pronounced “Jarogay”)

“Joe began his law enforcement career as a police officer with the San Jose Police Department in 2008, where he served for five years. In 2012, he left San Jose and joined the Walnut Creek Police Department, where he worked for 12 years, and went to join us here at Antioch in 2013.

“Over his 17 years in law enforcement, he has also gained extensive training and experience. Some of his past assignments included Cadet Advisor, Emergency Vehicle operations Instructor, Field Training Officer, SWAT “Operator, and Special Enforcement Team Officer.

In 2019, he was promoted to Sergeant and supervised multiple patrol teams and the Special Events Unit. In 2022, I transitioned to the Detective Bureau and oversaw property and person crimes.

“He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering, which he earned in 2001. Before going into law enforcement, he worked in the semiconductor industry.”

“He’s probably the smartest person in the department,” Addington stated.

“Throughout his career, Joe actively participated in several teams, including the Peer Support Team and Neighborhood Watch Team, and served as the Pink Patch Project Coordinator. He also assisted the Fleet Manager in ensuring efficient operations.

“He graduated from the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and Leadership Contra Costa and is pursuing a master’s degree in public administration in Criminal Justice.” About the Sherman Block training, Addington said, it’s “a nine-month program with chiefs across the state. It helps you really learn about yourself.”

“One of Joe’s passions is soccer,” the Chief continued. “He has dedicated time to coaching youth teams in San Jose at Downtown College Prep and Walnut Creek for the Walnut Creek Soccer Club. He strives to inspire the next generation through sports and teamwork.

Fun Fact: In Joe’s spare time, he enjoys working on mastering the craft of BBQ.  His family and friends say he makes a mean brisket and BBQ chicken wings.”

 “I know you’ll fit in well here because we have some pretty good soccer players in Antioch,” Addington stated and shared about the department’s newest lieutenant that, “He loves cookies. So, we have some in the back.”

After introducing Njoroge Addington thanked, “the Walnut Creek alumni who are here, today including former Chief Jamie Knox.”

Njoroge had his son and wife pin him with his new badge.

Antioch PD Sgt. Fachner is pinned and congratulated by San Jose PD Sgt. Dave Moody

Sgt. Dan Fachner

“Dan grew up in Livermore, California, and enlisted in the Air Force in 1990 after graduating high school. He served on active-duty status in the Air Force for 11 years as a jet engine mechanic on KC-135 air refuelers. In 2001, Dan was honorably discharged from active-duty status in the Air Force and was hired by the San Police Department as a Police Officer. He attended and graduated from the San Jose Police Academy at Evergreen Community College.

“9/11 occurred during Dan’s police academy, and he decided to serve his country again. He joined the Air Force Reserves after graduating from the Police Academy, was activated, and returned to active duty. He proudly served during Operation Enduring Freedom, working on KC10 aircraft refuelers responsible for worldwide support.

“While at the San Jose Police Department, Dan worked in patrol field services for 12 years. He was a Rifle Team member and an instructor for the field training program. Dan had a collateral assignment as a gang suppression officer, where he reduced gang crimes in the City of San Jose.

“In 2013 Dan retired from the Air Force after serving for 23 years. He joined the Antioch Police Department in 2013 as a Police Officer and was assigned to patrol field services. While in patrol field services, Dan has been a K9 handler, Rifle Team member, Field Training Officer, and Drone Operator. Dan had a collateral assignment and was assigned to the Contra Costa County Vehicle Suppression Enforcement Team, which focused on reducing vehicle thefts. In July of 2024, Dan was promoted to the rank of Corporal.

“Dan enjoys traveling with his wife, Crissy, when he is not at work. He is also an avid golfer and bass fisherman.

Fun Fact: Dan recently competed in a bass fishing Tournament of Champions series, competing against the top 100 fishermen in California.”

About Fachner the Chief added, “he’s had a distinguished career, and he’s really earned this. In July we promoted him to corporal and he’s done such a good job that a few months later we’re promoting him to sergeant.”

Fachner had Sgt. Dave Moody of the San Jose Police Department, who has 45 years of experience in law enforcement, pin on his badge.

New Antioch Police Officer Junior Pen is pinned by his cousin.

Officer Junior Pen- Academy Graduate

“Junior was born and raised in Stockton and attended Ronald E. McNair High School. During high school, he trained in Muay Thai, a form of kickboxing. He is the first-generation police officer in his family and is very proud of it – which he should be. He attended and graduated from the Alameda County Police Academy, receiving a certificate of achievement. Junior found a calling to be a police officer because of his mentor, slain Stockton Police Officer Jimmy Inn’s sacrifice. Officer Inn motivated him to want to serve and protect the community.”

Addington then recognized members of Inn’s family who were in attendance for the ceremony. “Officer Inn was shot and killed on a domestic violence call in May 2021,” he shared. “He was a mentor to Officer Junior Pen and his legacy lives on in law enforcement. Junior was motivated by Officer Inn to join the Antioch Police Department.”

“Junior likes fishing, weightlifting, and spending time with his family in his free time,” Addington continued.

“Fun Fact: Junior is a nerd for the Star Wars movies franchise – as do most of us, I’m sure,” the Chief added.

Pen asked his cousin to pin his badge on his uniform.

Oaths of Office and Honor

Following their introductions, Addington administered their oaths of office. Then after each of the four men was pinned, they offered remarks which included thanking Addington for hiring them.

The Chief then shared about the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Law Enforcement Oath of Honor saying, “The IACP Governing Body developed an Oath of Honor to punctuate the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect and ensuring the preservation of human life.

What is the Oath of Honor

“This is a public affirmation of your commitment to adhere to this oath and demonstrate the highest ethical standards. Before you take the Oath of Honor, you must understand what it means. This oath is a solemn pledge that you sincerely intend to abide by the terms of the Oath of Honor. Do each of you understand that?” Addington asked. They all replied, “Yes.”

“Raise your right hand and repeat the oath of Honor to affirm this,” the Chief said and led the men in the additional oath.

“Thank you for joining us in this moment of celebration, and please join me in congratulating these exceptional officers on their achievements. We look forward to their continued impact on shaping the path ahead,” the Chief added.

Family, friends and former and current colleagues congratulated and joined the men for photos and refreshments, which included the cookies Addington previously mentioned, as well as brownies and strawberries covered in sugary blue frosting and white chocolate, set inside letters spelling “APD.”

See videos of each of the four later on the Antioch Herald Facebook page.