Supervisors approve Grand Jury report on animal shelter consolidation with Antioch, countywide sidewalk obstruction ordinance, two years’ worth of ammunition for Sheriff’s Office
By Daniel Borsuk
A grieving, yet stoic Contra Costa County District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis conducted on Tuesday her final meeting as Board Chair a month to the day that her husband, Richard Clayton, took his own life. Showing remarkable resilience, Burgis thanked her family, fellow board members, her staff, county employees and constituents for their support.
“We accomplished so much in 2021,” said Burgis, who wore a black dress. “The annexation of the Contra Costa County Fire District with the East Contra Costa County Fire District will make Contra Costa County so much safer.”
Burgis, whose served on the Board’s Airports’ Committee, praised how the County has developed both the Byron and Buchanan airports, especially Byron with the startup of innovative aeronautical enterprises near the airport.
“I am so proud of our health workers,” Burgis said. “The county public health services have become a model of the state.”
For her work, fellow board members presented Burgis with a picture of Marsh Creek, one of Burgis’ favorite environmental cleanup sites.
“That was really hard for you to do,” District 1 Supervisor John Gioia of Richmond said of Burgis after handing over the gavel to newly sworn in Chair Karen Mitchoff of Ditrict 4 in Pleasant Hill. “We’re all behind you.”
Mitchoff, who will not seek re-election to the supervisorial post that she has held since January 2011, said, “In my final year as an elected official for Contra Costa County, I am excited about what lies ahead and ready to work together to keep improving the quality of life in our county.”
An avid reader, Mitchoff noted that last year she read 60 books, mostly audiobooks. As a gift for her fellow board members, Mitchoff gave each supervisor a copy of the historical book, “The 1619 Project,” written by Nikole Hannah-Jones.
District 5 Supervisor Federal Glover, who has served on the Board since 2000, will serve as Board Vice Chair. Glover, who was in line to become chair this year passed on accepting the post to allow Mitchoff to take on the leadership duties in recognition of her more than 40 years of public service.
Third Grand Jury Report on Consolidating County, Antioch Animal Shelters Approved
Without hearing any public comment, Supervisors approved a third Grand Jury report, this one recommending that the County hire a consultant to study the potential consolidation of the County run animal facility in Martinez and the City of Antioch animal shelter run by the Antioch Police Department.
“Public and private animal shelters are experiencing pressure from the explosive growth in the homeless animal and abandoned pet populations,” the new Grand Jury Report states. “Community outreach and education are high priorities for both Contra Costa and Antioch Animal Services, the two public animal shelters within the county.”
The grand jury report went on to state, “The Grand Jury recommends that Contra Costa Animal Services (CCAS) engage a consulting firm for guidance on the possible redistribution of animal services that could be achieved by a gradual process of cost-sharing and shelter coordination. A comparable consolidation currently underway between Monterey County and the City of Salinas Animal Shelters provides a possible model for the integration of Contra Costa and Antioch Animal Shelter services.”
The grand jury also recommends that the two public animal shelters improve their emphasis on community outreach to comfort homeless animal overpopulation.
In addition, the report calls on both the County and City of Antioch to resolve the ongoing problem of abandoned animals left at the Antioch shelter by residents outside the City of Antioch. “Although there is an informal working relationship between CCAS and AAS personnel on this issue, a more formal agreement between AAS and CCAS would facilitate abandoned pet retrieval at both shelters.”
Animal Services Home to Home Contract Approved
In a related animal shelter issue, Supervisors passed a Home-to-Home contract that will not cost the County any funds. Maddie’s Fund will pick up the tab to re-home pets. The Home-to-Home Network will lessen boarding of homeless dogs and cats in County Shelter. Home-To-Home adoptions are free.
Sidewalk Obstruction Ordinance Revised
Without hearing any public comment, Supervisors amended the County Sidewalk ordinance. The revision permits the County Director of Public Works to “abate any sidewalk obstruction.”
“An adjacent owner shall keep the sidewalk abutting the adjacent owner’s property free and clear of all weeds, rubbish, dirt, rocks, debris, or any other obstruction that interferes with the free passage of pedestrians,” the new ordinance states
Approve Two-Year Ammo Contract for Sheriff’s Office
Supervisors approved a $450,000 contract with Dooley Enterprises, Inc. to deliver Winchester ammunition for the Sheriff-Coroner from Jan. 1, 2022 to Dec. 31 2023. The Sheriff-Coroner’s Office has used Winchester ammunitions for training and duty ammunition purposes for more than 20 years.
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From $60 to $500 for single residents and $120 to $1,000 for single parents and couples in eligible households. Focused on poorest. Last changed in 1979.
SACRAMENTO – Low-income California renters who have been drowning in unaffordable housing costs would see much-needed relief under a bill unveiled Wednesday by State Senator Steve Glazer (D-Contra Costa) and co-authors representing more than one-third of the Legislature.
The legislation, SB 843, would increase the California renter’s tax credit for the first time in more than 40 years and would represent significant help to renters across California. Eligible households would receive $500 for single residents and $1,000 for single parents and couples. Currently, eligible renters have their tax liabilities offset by only $60 for single filers or $120 for joint filers.
The bill would make the tax credit more valuable to the poorest Californians by making single parents eligible for the same credit as couples and allowing people to receive the full credit even if the amount exceeds their tax liability.
“We’ve treated renters like the doormat outside California’s economic recovery house,” Glazer said. “We cannot make an economic comeback without renters having their rightful place inside. Renters have waited 42 years for a modest level of fairness in our tax code. We can’t make them wait any longer.
“An increase in the renters’ tax credit will mean that people don’t have to choose between putting food on the table, taking their kids to the doctor, and making the rent.”
Those eligible for the new renter’s credit would be single filers making $43,533 or less and joint filers making $87,066 or less. Nearly 2.4 million renters would be eligible for the tax credit, according to 2019 Franchise Tax Board estimates.
California has not increased the renter’s credit since 1979. The proposed increase accounts for inflation since then. SB 843 provides direct help to renters – those who typically struggle the most to find affordable housing, and who have been hit hard during COVID-19.
Glazer’s previous attempt to increase the credit – SB 248 – was described by CalMatters as the “most bipartisan bill of the year.” That bill had 30 co-authors. SB 843 already has 43 — and counting — from across the state and all parts of the ideological spectrum.
Assemblyman Steven Choi, R-Irvine, a principal co-author, said: “Nearly half of the state’s residents are renters, but we simply have not done enough to help them with our state tax policies. This legislation can serve as one tool to make renting more affordable. It would be a real boost to working families who are struggling to make ends meet with the high cost of living in California.”
Too many renters have struggled for too long, said Senator Melissa Hurtado, D-Sanger.
“California renters have struggled to meet rent prior to the pandemic, and have faced rents that in some areas have tripled,” said Senator Hurtado. “Even with steps we have previously taken, many renters face homelessness. This tax relief credit will provide much needed relief for renters, and I am happy to support it.”
Senator Susan Rubio, D-Baldwin Park, said there couldn’t be a better time than now to help renters.
“We need to help California renters, many of whom are struggling, with permanent financial relief,” said Senator Susan Rubio. “I want to thank Senator Glazer for introducing this bill, and I’m happy to be a co-author. Increasing the renters tax credit, while we have a healthy budget surplus, will put money where it’s needed the most and help families now and in the future.”
Republican Leader Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, said so many historic moments have come and gone without much help for renters. Until now.
“A lot has changed since 1979: my LA Clippers relocated to Los Angeles, the internet was ‘born,’ the Berlin wall fell, and a NASA spacecraft flew past Pluto,” Wilk said. “One thing that hasn’t changed? California’s $60 renter’s tax credit. Offering low-income renters such little assistance is inexcusable and reflects a bygone era. I am excited we are taking serious steps to put this behind us, too.”
Senator David Cortese, D-San Jose, said: “I’d like to thank Senator Glazer for his leadership as well as my colleagues for introducing this bill that will significantly expand our state’s renters tax credit and provide much needed relief to not only millions of low-income renters, but also our ‘missing middle’-income population that is often overlooked. And by doing so, this bill will provide stability to our families and prevent the displacement of valuable members of our communities – including our teachers, nurses, nonprofit employees as well other essential workers who are being forced to leave the state due to high cost of living and skyrocketing rents.”
Assemblyman Kevin Mullin, D-San Mateo, a co-author, said, “Renters have been disproportionately affected by the economic consequences of COVID-19. Until the pandemic is fully behind us and jobs can return to full capacity, some renters may continue to face a risk of homelessness or housing instability. Updating the renters tax credit is a way of providing critical direct relief to some of California’s most vulnerable.”
Assemblywoman Janet Nguyen, R-Huntington Beach, said: “After a difficult two years throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it is my priority to find and work toward solutions that lower the cost of living. This tax credit will help many families in our community not have to choose between paying for rent and providing food for their family. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to get this bill passed through the Legislature and onto the Governor’s desk.”
Jiseon Kim, a University of California Los Angeles senior majoring in history and public affairs and Head of Advocacy at Swipe Out Hunger at UCLA, said that students are among the many Californians facing high housing costs today, “one of many obstacles they face in being able to earn their degrees. This bill would help address our cost of living issues and will contribute to all students’ overall educational success.”
Senator Brian Jones, R-Santee, said the bill recognizes the needs of working families.
“The State’s $45 billion budget surplus was built on the backs of hardworking Californians, including renters, who now deserve a break,” Jones said.
The Renter’s Tax Credit is a common-sense idea that offers urgently needed relief to California’s millions of families burdened with high rent, said David Knight, Executive Director of the California Community Action Partnership (CalCAPA). While California homeowners receive $5.8 billion in tax relief through mortgage deductions, renters’ relief has been barely a blip on the radar, Knight noted. The cost of the new renter’s credit would be around $1.2 billion, according to 2019 Franchise Tax Board estimates.
“It’s a matter of fairness,” Knight said. “California’s housing policies have favored homeowners for decades by offering them a tax credit for the interest on their mortgages. But, renters haven’t been granted similar benefits. CalCAPA is proud to support this important bill, which makes our housing policy more fair and equitable.”
Senator David Min, D-Irvine, said: “Housing remains a top issue for Californians in every corner of our state. From the rising cost of living to the COVID-19 crisis, California renters have faced no shortage of challenges in recent years. I’m honored to be a coauthor of SB 843, which will help thousands by making crucial and long overdue updates to the California Renters Tax Credit.”
The renter’s credit was established in 1972. Since its only increase in 1979, rents in California have more than quintupled while the renters credit remained flat. Median state rent exceeds $1,500 a month for a two-bedroom apartment, and rentals in cities like San Francisco average more than $2,700 a month.
Senator Bob Archuleta, D-Pico Rivera, said: “Expanding eligibility for the renters tax credit is incredibly important. Especially now, as Californians continue to struggle with the pandemic, it is important we do everything we can to make California more affordable for all Californians. I am proud to be a coauthor of Senate Bill 843, and thank Senator Glazer for his leadership on this issue.”
Assemblywoman Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel), a co-author, said, “California is facing a housing crisis unlike anything we have ever seen before. In addition to a lack of housing, we also have one of the nation’s highest costs of living. The existing renters tax credit has not been raised since 1979 and due to inflation plus a stagnant economy, Californians are hurting now more than ever. Modernizing and updating this credit to keep up with 21st century living standards is the right thing to do to provide relief to low-and-middle income renters.”
Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua, D-Stockton, said: “The ever-rising cost of housing in California has led us to a worrying poverty rate that is unsustainable for our families today and for future generations,” said Assemblymember Villapudua. “Too many of us now spend well over 30 percent of our income on rent which forces struggling families into making difficult decisions and cutting priorities. An increase in this tax credit for renters across California would provide essential relief for these individuals as they work to meet these rising costs to keep a roof over their heads.”
Read MoreBRENTWOOD — The East County Diehards Baseball Club is hosting a Crab Feed on Saturday, February 5, 2022, at the Veterans Hall, located at 757 1st Street in Brentwood. Doors will open at 6PM. Tickets are limited, so get yours today!
The Crab Feed will include several delicious options, including crab, tri-tip steak, and side dishes. A silent auction, games, and raffle drawings will also be part of the festivities. Proceeds will support the Diehards 12U road to Cooperstown Allstar game, in July of 2022.
“The East County Diehards baseball club has a history of hosting great events,” said James Joachim, team manager, Diehards 12U. “This will, no doubt, be a very fun event, with great food and friends. Furthermore, this crab feed is for a great cause, supporting youth sports.”
To purchase tickets to the Crab Feed you can scan the QR Code found on the Diehards Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DieHards12U.
The East County Diehards 501c charitable organization was established in 2012 in Oakley, CA. They offer competitive travel softball and baseball for boys and girls throughout Contra Costa County.
To learn more about the Diehards organization, you can visit: https://eastcountydiehards.org.
Read MoreEntitled “Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime” (A3) – The service will be accessed through 911 and the Miles Hall Community Crisis Hub
WHEN: 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 12, 2022
WHERE: The A3 Community Crisis Initiative Event will be held via Zoom. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate using this link. The event will also be broadcast on Contra Costa TV.
Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS), civic leaders and community advocates will deliver an online community update about Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime (A3), a new system for delivering safe, appropriate care to county residents who are experiencing behavioral health emergencies.
A3, developed in partnership with local government, first responders, mental health advocates, patients and families, will be implemented with funds from Contra Costa County’s Measure X sales tax. The program is intended to connect people in crisis with the care they need in the moment, and reduce intervention by local law enforcement where clinical expertise is more appropriate.
“Our community recognized an unmet health need and has come together in an unprecedented way,” Contra Costa Health Director Anna Roth said. “When fully implemented, A3 will ensure that everyone in our community can receive culturally and clinically appropriate crisis services whenever help is requested because of a behavioral health emergency.”
A3, currently a pilot program, will expand into a 24-hour service over the next 18 months that sends crisis response teams including behavioral health professionals directly to behavioral health emergency calls, in coordination with other first responders.
The service will be accessed through 911 and the Miles Hall Community Crisis Hub, a call center staffed by clinicians from CCHS who can triage calls, determine appropriate responses and dispatch crisis response teams. It is the central component of the model. Miles Hall was a local youth who was tragically killed by police while experiencing a mental health crisis in 2019 during a law enforcement encounter.
CCHS is now developing and hiring staff for the program, supported by a one-time allocation of $5 million in Measure X funds for infrastructure, and $20 million in ongoing funds to support operation of the program, including staffing. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier also submitted two requests for Community Project Funding for behavioral health in Contra Costa County. If approved, more than $2 million in federal funding would be used to expand these services.
Information about A3 can be found at https://cchealth.org/bhs/crisis-response/. This website will be updated throughout 2022.
People experiencing a behavioral health crisis or anyone who needs to obtain help for others can currently access services by calling 911, 211, or our mobile crisis response at 1-833-433-2672.
Read MorePledges to continue work in Congress for Contra Costa; lists his endorsements
CONTRA COSTA, CA – The DeSaulnier for Congress Campaign announced the launch of the congressman’s re-election effort for California’s newly drawn 10th Congressional district, as approved by the California Citizens’ Redistricting Commission (CCRC) on Monday, Dec. 20th. Mark DeSaulnier has represented Concord and Contra Costa County in Congress since 2015 and vows to continue to work hard for his constituents, fighting for working families.
Th 10th District encompasses most of Contra Costa County, including Lamorinda, the San Ramon Valley, Concord, Clayton, Clyde, Pacheco, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and portions of Martinez in Central County, and in East County, Brentwood, Oakley, Bethel Island, Knightsen and portions of Antioch, plus portions of Dublin in Alameda County.
“Throughout my time in Congress, my guiding principle has always been this: I work for you,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “It’s been my honor to represent this area for nearly three decades, on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, in the California State Legislature, and for the past six years as a Member of Congress. My priority has always been serving the people of Contra Costa and making our voices heard during the tough fights, when it matters most.”
DeSaulnier lives in Concord where he raised his two sons, Tristan and Tucker, and opened and operated a small business, TR’s restaurant.
He’s also spent three decades as a public servant: representing his community on the Concord City Council, as Mayor of Concord, as a three-term Contra Costa County Supervisor, in the California State Legislature, and currently as a Member of Congress.
As Supervisor, he served on the California Air Resources Board, the Association of Bay Area Governments, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. He was elected to the State Assembly in 2006 where he served one term and received the distinction of being the first freshman in history to chair the Assembly Transportation Committee. DeSaulnier was elected to two terms in the California State Senate in 2008 and 2012 where he served as Chair of the California State Senate Transportation and Housing Committee. During his time in Congress, DeSaulnier has been honored to represent California’s 11th Congressional District including Richmond, El Cerrito, Kensington, and Pittsburg, now in the new 8th District, and looks forward to continuing to serve them in 2022.
Congressman DeSaulnier is running for re-election to fight against the reckless Republican agenda and move our nation forward by:
- Ensuring every American has access to quality, affordable health insurance and care;
- Confronting racial injustice;
- Creating national common sense gun violence reforms;
- Helping America’s students receive a quality education without being shackled by debt;
- Protecting Medicare and Social Security;
- Safeguarding the environment;
- Overseeing the largest investment in our nation’s infrastructure in modern history, and
- Ensuring government is accountable to the public.
The campaign is proud to announce the following endorsements:
- Alex Padilla, United States Senator for California
- Karen Bass, United States Representative (CA)
- Jared Huffman, United States Representative (CA)
- Barbara Lee, United States Representative (CA)
- Doris Matsui, United States Representative (CA)
- Eric Swalwell, United States Representative (CA)
- Mike Thompson, United States Representative (CA)
- George Miller, Former United States Representative (CA)
- Rosa DeLauro, United States Representative (CT)
- Betty T. Yee, California State Controller
- Ricardo Lara, California Insurance Commissioner
- Rob Bonta, Attorney General of California
- Tony Thurmond, California State Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Tom Torlakson, Former California State Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Steve Glazer, California State Senator
- Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, California State Assemblymember
- Tim Grayson, California State Assemblymember
- Diane Burgis, Supervisor, Contra Costa County
- Federal Glover, Supervisor, Contra Costa County
- John Gioia, Supervisor, Contra Costa County
- Karen Mitchoff, Supervisor, Contra Costa County
- Diana Becton, District Attorney, Contra Costa County
- Lynn Mackey, Superintendent of Schools, Contra Costa County
- Holly Tillman, Vice Mayor, City of Clayton
- Julie Pierce, Former Mayor, City of Clayton
- Dominic Aliano, Mayor, City of Concord
- Carlyn Obringer, Council Member, City of Concord
- Edi E. Birsan, Council Member, City of Concord
- Tim McGallian, Council Member, City of Concord
- Newell Arnerich, Mayor, Town of Danville
- Teresa Gerringer, Mayor, City of Lafayette
- Susan Candell, Council Member, City of Lafayette
- Cameron Burks, Former Council Member, City of Lafayette
- Rob Shroder, Mayor of the City of Martinez
- Lara DeLaney, Council Member, City of Martinez
- Mark Ross, Council Member, City of Martinez
- Dennis Fay, Mayor, City of Orinda
- Amy R. Worth, Council Member, City of Orinda
- Inga Miller, Council Member, City of Orinda
- Kevin Wilk, Council Member, City of Walnut Creek
- Cindy Darling, Council Member, City of Walnut Creek
- Michael Harris, Mayor, City of Pleasant Hill
- Sue Noack, Council Member, City of Pleasant Hill
- Matthew Rinn, Council Member, City of Pleasant Hill
- Ken Carlson, Councilmember, City of Pleasant Hill
- Merl Craft, Council Member, City of Pittsburg
- Tom Butt, Mayor, City of Richmond
- Gabriel Quinto, Mayor, City of El Cerrito
- Lisa Motoyama, Mayor Pro Tem, City of El Cerrito
- Janet Abelson, Council Member, City of El Cerrito
- Paul Fadelli, Council Member, City of El Cerrito
- Rita Xavier, Mayor, City of San Pablo
- Abel Pineda, Council Member, City of San Pablo
- Linda Mayo, Trustee, Mt. Diablo Unified School District
- Mae Torlakson, Vice Chair, Ambrose Recreation and Park District in Bay Point
- Judy Walters, Ph.D., President, Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board
- Fernando Sandoval, Vice President, Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board
- Rebecca Barrett, Board Trustee, Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board
- Andy Li, Board Trustee, Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board
- John E. Marquez, Board Trustee, Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board
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Public input requested; legislatively designated for over 62 years
The proposed State Route 239 Project will provide a new, four-lane highway from State Route 4 at Marsh Creek Road in Contra Costa County to Interstate 580 in Alameda County or Interstate 205 in San Joaquin County. This new state route will ultimately improve the transportation network for an area that has few viable north-south roadway connections in this approximately 17-mile stretch between eastern Contra Costa and the Central Valley.
This project is sponsored by the Contra Costa County Transportation Authority (CCTA) in partnership with Contra Costa County and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) – District 4. The proposed State Route 239 Project is critical to the region and needed to provide relief from increasing commute traffic through the town of Byron, enhance mobility in eastern Contra Costa, and improve access to the Byron Airport.
Brief History
State Route 239 has been a legislatively designated route since 1959. In 2005, Contra Costa County secured federal funds to initiate a feasibility study and a project initiation document (PID). The PID was completed in 2015 and the environmental study phase has been initiated.
Why Now?
Supporting the growing communities of eastern Contra Costa County and providing mobility options for the area are two key reasons to implement this corridor. It will serve as an important backbone for the region while helping people who live and work in eastern Contra Costa County (including Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, Byron, and Discovery Bay) and western San Joaquin County (including Tracy and Mountain House) connect, move and prosper.
Considerations
During the study phase of this project, which occurred between the spring of 2012 and the winter of 2013, a variety of stakeholder meetings were held, and several important themes emerged, including consideration of how a new route in eastern Contra Costa might affect conservation areas, agricultural lands, bird flight paths, and growth in the area. These considerations are still important, today and have set the stage for continued outreach during future project development phases.
Environmental Phase
Caltrans and CCTA are currently engaged in the environmental phase of the project development process for the State Route 239 Project. During this phase, the team will study and analyze all environmental impacts for the project area and will prepare a Draft Environmental Impact Report/ Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS) for public review and comment in 2023.
The public is invited to join the conversation about the environmental scoping phase of the State Route 239 Project during the public comment period.
COMMENT PERIOD: DECEMBER 17, 2021- FEBRUARY 4, 2022
The State Route 239 Project is offering an environmental scoping virtual open house. The purpose of environmental scoping is to identify the environmental topics that the project team should study to assess the potential environmental impacts of a construction project. Public input on this project will be critical for ensuring the SR 239 project team’s studies are comprehensive and thorough. Within the website you will be able to review informational materials about this phase of the work.
Please use the online comment form provided to send your thoughts and questions to the project team.
Virtual Environmental Scoping Meeting
Live presentation and Q&A session scheduled for January 20, 2022 at 5:30 p.m.
Recorded scoping presentation will be posted on the page on January 21, 2022.
On January 20, 2022, please visit the website for a link to the interactive virtual scoping meeting that will start at 5:30 p.m. Visitors will be permitted to join the meeting 15 minutes before the start time. The team will make a presentation about this project and a panel of experts will be available to answer your questions about State Route 239.
For additional information about this project, please contact Stephanie Hu – Director, Projects at stephanieh@ccta.net.
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Then 38-year-old defendant recorded his sexual abuse of 16-year-old female high school student; admits to other sex crimes
OAKLAND – Ranbir Singh was sentenced Wednesday to 230 months in prison in Oakland federal court today for the production of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Stephanie M. Hinds and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Tatum King. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr.
“No statute of limitations exists for federal child pornography crimes, including the production of child pornography,” said United States Attorney Stephanie M. Hinds. “This tragic child sexual abuse occurred nine years ago, yet we still obtained justice for these victims. Their strength and perseverance in coming forward enabled our successful result. For those who suffered at any time from a similar crime, please find the strength to come forward as these victims did.”
“HSI special agents worked closely with Richmond Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California to hold Singh accountable for the production of child sexual abuse material which involved the exploitation of a 16-year-old victim,” said Tatum King, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Francisco. “Singh’s sentence will hopefully bring closure to the impacted victims and their families so they can begin the process of healing after surviving this horrible crime.”
Singh, 47, of San Pablo, California, pleaded guilty on September 15, 2021, to one count of production of child pornography. In his plea agreement, Singh admitted that on March 13, 2013, he engaged in sexual acts in an Alameda County hotel room with a female high school student. At the time, the minor female was 16 years old. He was 38 years old. The plea agreement describes that Singh set up a video camera in the hotel room before the crime occurred. Singh then persuaded the minor female to engage in sex acts. Singh positioned the camera, he admitted, to record the acts. The minor female repeatedly protested during sex and told Singh to stop, but he continued. (See related article)
Singh further admitted that earlier, in January 2013, he video-recorded the same minor female sitting in a car’s backseat in a compromising and exposed sexual position.
In a memo filed for sentencing, the government describes that Singh first contacted the minor female on Facebook after he observed her at a local temple when she was 14 years old. He made in-person contact with her when she was 15 years old. At that time Singh told her he was in his 20s, despite being 38 and married with three children. In the months that followed, Singh picked up the minor female from her high school after classes or during breaks. He made ongoing attempts to pressure her into sexual acts. The sexual contact eventually occurred when the minor female was 16, a high school junior.
Singh also admitted in his plea agreement that he traveled later, in May 2013, to a casino hotel in Placer County with a different minor female. Singh admitted he knew this female was also a minor. The government’s sentencing memo describes that Singh enticed the minor female onto the trip using a ruse about tickets to a concert. Singh admitted in his plea agreement that he rented a casino hotel room for them and then showed this minor female a video recording depicting Singh’s sexual acts with the other minor female described above. Singh admitted he engaged in sex with this minor female in the Placer County casino hotel room.
Singh’s conduct traumatized both minor female victims, as the government’s sentencing memo describes. The first victim suffered severe adverse consequences that have become well documented. The second victim could not, years later, describe what happened in the Placer County hotel without weeping uncontrollably.
The initial federal charges were brought against Singh in a complaint filed March 1, 2021. The complaint reflects that a local law enforcement investigation began when the two minor female victims came forward, but they did not know Singh’s true name. After determining his identity, and years after Singh had sexually abused these minor victims, the video recordings were discovered on Singh’s laptop, having been stored there for years.
The federal investigation began when the video recordings were discovered on Singh’s laptop. There is no federal statute of limitations for charges relating to child pornography crimes, including production of child pornography, under 18 U.S.C. § 3299.
In addition to the 230 month prison term, United States District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam Jr. sentenced Singh, who was in custody at the sentencing hearing, to a 15 year term of supervised release to follow his release from prison. He began serving his prison sentence immediately.
Jonathan U. Lee is the Assistant U.S. Attorney who prosecuted the case, with the assistance of Leeya Kekona, Kay Konopaske, and Kathleen Turner. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Richmond Police Department.
This federal case was brought in U.S. District Court as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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By Better Business Bureau
The US Food and Drug Administration is warning people of fraudulent coronavirus tests, vaccines, and treatments as the pandemic continues. According to the Centers for Disease Control, since the arrival of the Omicron variant, the increase of testing for COVID-19 has become a concern. Scarcity often leads to potential scams for a product that doesn’t exist, the compromise of personal identifiable information, or the increase of deceptive advertising.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a warning last year about potential fraud related to the antibody tests. Scammers are selling unapproved COVID-19 antibody tests, which can give inaccurate results. In doing so, they are also collecting personal information, such as Social Security numbers and dates of birth. They may also be stealing health insurance or Medicare information that can be used in future schemes.
How the scam works
Robocalls are sent out to consumers directing them to a website that looks like a clinic or medical supply company offering COVID-19 tests. These tests allegedly identify if a person has been infected with coronavirus – even if they’ve recovered. Some even promise results in 10 minutes. However, to receive a test, a credit card or a form needs to be completed with personal information.
In some cases, the test involves an easy at-home testing kit. Other times, the tests are allegedly offered through a clinic. But in all versions, the person or website selling the test is short on details. They aren’t willing or able to provide any information about how the test works, where it is sourced, and what laboratory processes it.
Don’t fall for it! These tests are not US Food and Drug Administration approved and will not give accurate results. In fact, requestors may never even receive an actual test kit. Either way, scammers will have made off with the money and personal information.
In a new twist, Newsweek reports that scammers appeared at a testing site in Florida and conducted fake tests to people standing in line, as a ruse to get their personal information.
How to avoid fake coronavirus tests and related scams
- Want a test? Talk to your doctor. Reach out to your healthcare provider. They can help figure out if the test will be covered by insurance and where to find a legitimate clinic. If you don’t have a primary care physician, check out the official website of your local health department for more information on testing availability.
- Research before buying. Scammers put pressure on people to buy or commit without giving them time to do further research. Before agreeing to anything, investigate first. Research any claims the company makes. Start with searching BBB.org to see they are BBB Accredited, have good reviews, and if there are complaints or scam reports associated with their business name. In addition, review the warnings on FBI, Federal Trade Commission, Attorney General’s office, and BBB ScamTracker.
- Understand all options: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has a detailed guide to testing for COVID-19. Understand the different tests available.
- Never share your personal information with strangers. Only make purchases and share your personal information with people and companies you know and trust. Be wary of anyone approaching you in line; ask for credentials if necessary. If you suspect your personal information has been compromised, report it to identitytheft.gov
- Check claims of FDA approval. Per the FBI, “Not all COVID-19 antibody tests have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and their efficacy has not been determined.” Check the FDA website for a list of approved tests and testing companies.
For More Information
BBB has additional tips for avoiding scams on BBB.org/spotascam and the BBB news feed.
If you’ve been the victim of a scam, please report it on the BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help others to stay alert and avoid similar scams.
Read MoreWhile supply lasts
The spread of the omicron COVID-19 variant after the holidays has caused widespread demand for COVID testing kits. CVS and Walgreens are now limiting how many at-home tests customers can buy.
The lack of availability is prompting Contra Costa County Supervisors to take action.
This week, Supervisor Diane Burgis’ office is distributing at-home test kits for free to those who have struggled to find them. The test kits will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis.
Due to the high demand, we are limiting the test kits to two per family (four tests – each kit contains two tests). We will continue to distribute the COVID-19 test kits as long as supplies last.
Burgis has distributed thousands of COVID tests so far, delivering to local businesses, restaurants, and churches in District 3, and is hoping the supply from the county’s health services can keep up with the demand.
District 3 is working with the City of Oakley to help distribute the at-home test kits at a drive-through event at the Oakley Recreation Center on O’Hara Ave., the event will be held Thursday, January 6, 2022, from 1-4 pm (or while the supply of test kits lasts).
Free At-Home COVID Test Kits – Drive Through Event
Oakley Recreation Center
Thursday, January 6, 2022
1:00PM – 4:00PM
Read MoreRetroactive to Jan. 1: Cost for Initial Notice Drops to $5 from $25; Second Notice to $15 from $70; affects all but Golden Gate
The Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA) today announced a sharp reduction in the penalties associated with toll violation notices sent by the FasTrak® customer service center to customers with unpaid invoices for toll bridge crossings.
Effective immediately — and retroactive to all violation notices since Jan. 1 of this year for outstanding tolls at the San Francisco-Oakland Bay, Antioch, Benicia-Martinez, Richmond-San Rafael, Carquinez, Dumbarton and San Mateo-Hayward bridges — the penalty for first violation notices drops to $5 from the previous $25 and the penalty for second violation notices falls to $15 from the previous $70.
Bridge customers who paid toll violation penalties earlier this year will receive a refund for the difference between the amount(s) they paid and the amount(s) due under the new policy. Distribution of these refunds is expected to begin in February 2022 and continue over the next several months, after which a claim process will be posted at www.bayareafastrak.org for customers who believe they are owed a refund and did not receive one.
The new policy toward violation penalties was approved by BATA at its October 2021 meeting and marks the first policy change adopted as part of its Bay Area tolling equity action plan unveiled in May 2021. BATA at its November 2021 meeting approved several additional policy changes slated to become effective in the spring of 2022. These include dropping the cost of the FasTrak toll tag deposit for new customers who choose not to link their account to a credit card to $5 from the previous $20; crediting $15 to the prepaid toll accounts of existing customers who paid a $20 tag deposit; reducing the minimum opening balance for a FasTrak account for customers who pay with cash or check to $25 from the previous $50; and eliminating transaction fees for customers who replenish FasTrak accounts or pay violation penalties at a cash network location. BATA and the FasTrak customer service center in the coming months are expected to implement additional recommendations designed to make enrollment in the FasTrak electronic toll payment system more convenient, accessible and affordable. The toll payment system is fully automated for FasTrak customers, with the cost of each crossing automatically deducted from their accounts, allowing them to avoid invoices, violation notices and penalties altogether.
FasTrak customers already account for about three-quarters of all crossings at the Bay Area’s state-owned toll bridges. BATA encourages customers who do not already have FasTrak to open accounts online at www.bayareafastrak.org or by phone at 1-877-229-8655 (BAY-TOLL). Customers also may obtain FasTrak tags at select Costco and Walgreens stores. A map of retail locations at which FasTrak tags are available may be found at https://www.bayareafastrak.org/en/howitworks/retailmap.html. Tags purchased at Costco or Walgreens must be registered online. Drivers who would rather replenish their FasTrak accounts with cash can do so at more than 100 Cash Payment Network locations, now including Walmart stores. A map of these locations may be found at https://www.bayareafastrak.org/en/tolls/cashLocationsMap.html.
Drivers also may open a License Plate Account, which is a pay-as-you-go option that links a license plate to an account and charges that account whenever the vehicle crosses a toll bridge; or make a one-time payment, which allows the customer to pay a toll online up to 30 days in advance of a bridge crossing or within 48 hours afterwards. There are no fees for either of these services. More information about License Plate Accounts and one-time payments is available at www.bayareafastrak.org.
Customers who do not have FasTrak or a License Plate Account — and who do not use the online one-time payment option — are required to return invoices with payment within 21 days. Customers who neglect to return payment by the due date on the invoice will receive a “Notice of Toll Evasion” with a $5 penalty for each toll crossing. Customers who do not return payment by the due date on the “Notice of Toll Evasion” will receive a “Second Notice of Delinquent Toll Evasion” with a violation penalty of $15 per crossing. Customers who do not return payment after a second notice may have a hold put on their vehicle registration by the DMV or have the amount owed referred to a collection agency.
BATA administers all toll revenues from the region’s seven state-owned toll bridges.
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