Contra Costa Herald

Illegal marijuana grow operation. Photos: CA Dept of Cannabis Control

Department of Cannabis Control also recalled 444 unsafe or noncompliant products; 413,302 plants eradicated, 185,873 pounds seized; approve over 1,000 new businesses throughout state

Recent efforts continue to prioritize consumer and public safety and support the legal cannabis market

By California Department of Cannabis Control

Sacramento, CA – In its ongoing efforts to protect consumer safety, expand access to the legal market while dismantling illegal cannabis operations, the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) today announced that it has seized over $62M in illegal cannabis, recalled 444 unsafe or noncompliant products, issued 256 new licenses, and transitioned 748 businesses from provisional licensure to annual licensure from April – June 2025.

Shutting down illegal cannabis operations

During the second quarter (Q2) of 2025, DCC-led or assisted enforcement actions (separate from UCETF actions) that resulted in the seizure of $62.4M worth of illegal cannabis, 44,187 illegal plants, 36,312 pounds of illegal cannabis flower, $89,535 in cash, and 16 firearms.

“DCC’s second quarter efforts show a department that is moving with urgency, strategy and accountability to protect Californians, support responsible operators and ensure the cannabis market delivers on its promise. These actions represent not just enforcement, but the protection of California’s communities, consumers, and natural resources.”
– Department of Cannabis Control Director Nicole Elliott

Consumer safety and business compliance

The DCC takes swift action to recall or embargo cannabis products that could pose a risk to consumers. In Q2, DCC issued 34 recalls covering 444 products. These recalls included 183 products recalled due to incomplete regulatory compliance testing and 181 recalls for labeling that was attractive to children. Additionally, 62 administrative actions were taken to ensure cannabis businesses operate within regulatory and consumer expectations resulting in 25 license revocations, 2 suspensions, and 35 citations with fines.

Transitioning and issuing cannabis licenses

During the second quarter, DCC converted 748 provisional licenses to annual status. The most transitions to annual licenses took place in Los Angeles County (328 licenses) followed by Mendocino County (137). Additionally, 256 new cannabis licenses were issued since April.

Aerial photo of illegal marijuana grow operation.

Governor’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force Results Seizes Additional $476 million of Unlicensed Cannabis Products During Same 3 Months

Governor Gavin Newsom announced on July 10, 2025, that the state seized $476 million worth of illegal cannabis between April and June, thanks to the combined efforts of the Governor’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF), co-led by the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) and the Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW).

“As a proof point of California’s commitment to the legal cannabis industry, the state seized over 92 tons of illicit cannabis product in the past three months alone,” said Newsom. “I thank the federal, state, and local partners who conducted these enforcement efforts for protecting consumers and supporting our legal cannabis market.”

In the efforts announced today, UCETF received support from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Pesticide Regulation, Employment Development Department, and California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Combined enforcement highlights from April through June include:

•       413,302 illegal cannabis plants eradicated
•       185,873 pounds of illegal cannabis seized
•       214 warrants served
•       77 firearms seized
•       93 arrests

“Our teams continue to take an aggressive and proactive approach to eliminating unlicensed cannabis activities,” said DCC Director Nicole Elliott. “We will remain laser-focused on dismantling illicit cannabis operations until they are all permanently shut down.”

“Over the past quarter, UCETF conducted numerous highly strategic operations that significantly impacted the daily activities of illegal cannabis operators,” said Nathaniel Arnold, Chief of the Law Enforcement Division for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). “This success would not be possible without the continued support and dedication of our partners throughout the state.”

In May, UCETF conducted its largest successful operation to date with 200 sworn officers and staff from state, local, and federal agencies participating in an enforcement effort spanning 4,600 square miles in the Central Valley. Through 71 search warrants, officials seized:

• 105,700 illicit cannabis plants
• 22,057 pounds of processed cannabis valued at $123.5 million
• Nine firearms

A unified strategy across California 

Since 2019, officials have seized and destroyed over 950 tons, or over 1.9 million pounds, of illegal cannabis worth an estimated retail value of $3.6 billion through over 1,700+ operations.

The cannabis task force was established in 2022 by Governor Newsom to enhance collaboration and enforcement coordination between state, local, and federal partners. Partners on the task force include the Department of Cannabis Control, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Department of Toxic Substances Control, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, among others.

According to Moorea Warren of DCC Public Affairs, “The $476M is the amount of illegal cannabis seized by the Governor’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce (UCETF). The Taskforce is co-chaired by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC). The $62.4 million is the amount of illegal cannabis seized by DCC’s Law Enforcement Division and is separate from UCETF’s amounts.”

Financial support for long-term enforcement efforts

In June, the Legislature made key changes to strengthen the DCC’s long-term enforcement efforts. This included amending state law to dedicate cannabis tax revenue to fund DCC civil and criminal enforcement activities, reducing the burden on licensees while ensuring sustained actions against illegal operators. In addition, the Legislature expanded Board of State and Community Corrections grant eligibility to local jurisdictions, especially those allowing retail access, to further enhance and support local enforcement efforts against illegal cannabis activity.

About the Department of Cannabis Control

The Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) licenses and regulates commercial cannabis activity within California. DCC works closely with all stakeholders, including businesses and local jurisdictions, to create a sustainable legal cannabis industry and a safe and equitable marketplace. DCC develops and implements progressive cannabis policies with robust protections for public health, safety and the environment. To learn more about the California cannabis market, state licenses or laws, visit http://www.cannabis.ca.gov.

To learn more about the legal California cannabis market, state licenses, and laws, visit cannabis.ca.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Leaves one driver dead, the other with major injuries

By CHP – Contra Costa

DISCOVERY BAY, CA – On Thursday, August 14, 2025, at approximately 10:19 a.m., officers assigned to the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Contra Costa Area office responded to a two-vehicle head-on crash which occurred on State Route 4 (SR-4) westbound, just east of Discovery Bay Blvd. in the township of Discovery Bay.

Our preliminary investigation indicates a Toyota Camry, driven by an adult male, was traveling eastbound on SR-4 when, for reasons still under investigation, it crossed over the double-yellow divider lines and crashed head-on into a GMC Sierra occupied by a male adult.

Tragically, the driver of the Toyota sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the GMC sustained suspected major injuries and was airlifted to the hospital. An impaired driving investigation was also conducted, and DUI was ruled out as a factor in this crash.

This crash remains under investigation. If anyone witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa Area office in Martinez at (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.

The Mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

The loaded stolen firearm discovered at Guzman’s home during a search on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. Photo: Brentwood PD

31-year-old Carlos Guzman had drugs, stolen firearm at his home

By Brentwood Police Department

On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, Brentwood officers were dispatched to the 7900 block of Lone Tree Way for a report that a suspect had threatened two victims with a gun. As officers arrived, they saw the suspect identified as 31-year-old Carlos Joseph Guzman of Brentwood leaving the scene in a vehicle. Officers conducted a traffic stop and detained Guzman.

Due to the violent nature of the incident and Guzman’s prior felony conviction, detectives obtained a search warrant for his residence. When the warrant was served, officers located a loaded stolen firearm and a large quantity of narcotics inside the home.

Guzman was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, being a felon in possession of a stolen firearm, possession of drugs for sale and other related charges.

This arrest highlights the outstanding teamwork between patrol officers and detectives, whose quick actions and thorough investigation ensured a dangerous individual was taken off the streets.

According to recentlybooked.com, Guzman is five-feet, eight inches tall, 200-pounds and Hispanic.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

By CHP – Contra Costa

PLEASANT HILL, CA – On Tuesday, August 12th, 2025, at approximately 8:14 a.m., officers assigned to the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Contra Costa Area office responded to a solo vehicle crash which occurred on the off-ramp of Interstate 680 (I-680) northbound to Monument Blvd., in the city of Pleasant Hill.

Our preliminary investigation indicates a silver Lexus SUV, occupied by one male adult driver, was traveling on I-680 northbound, just south of Monument Blvd. in the slow lane. For reasons still under investigation, the Lexus suddenly turned to its right, crossed over the reverse gore point, and drove on to the Monument Boulevard off-ramp. The driver subsequently lost control of the Lexus, traveled up the left embankment, and ultimately overturned.

Tragically, the driver was ejected during the crash, sustained fatal injuries, and was pronounced deceased at the scene. During the investigation it was determined driver was not wearing his seatbelt during the crash.

The I-680 northbound to Monument Blvd. off-ramp was closed at approximately 8:22 a.m., for on-scene investigation, and was re-opened at approximately 10:35 a.m.

This crash remains under investigation. If anyone witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa Area office in Martinez at (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.

The Mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Photos by (left) City of Brentwood and (right) Three Nunns Farm.

Lifelong resident honored by family members, City of Brentwood as “steward of our city’s agricultural heritage”

Family has been farming in Brentwood since the 1880’s

By Allen D. Payton

A post on the City of Brentwood’s X (formerly Twitter) feed on Thursday, August 14, 2025, announced the passing of Brentwood native, lifelong resident, farmer, developer and community leader Ron Nunn. Born on April 8, 1933, he passed at the age of 92.

The post reads, “The City of Brentwood joins the community in mourning the loss of Ron Nunn, a lifelong farmer, community leader, and steward of our city’s agricultural heritage. His life’s work leaves a lasting impact on Brentwood and the generations who will benefit from his legacy.”

An August 10th post on Our Town Brentwood’s Facebook page shows Nunn’s high school graduation photo and a more current one, and offered condolences. “I just heard the sad news about the Passing of an East County Icon Farmer Ron Nunn at the age of 92 – 1933-2025 – Rest in Peace Thank you for being a good friend to the East Contra Costa Historical Society and to your contribution to farming. The picture on the left is his 1951 Liberty High School Graduation picture, the Nunn’s have been farming this area since the 1880’s. My Deepest Condolences to the entire Nunn Family.”

Ron Nunn’s graduation photo from Liberty High School in 1951 and a more recent photo of the local icon. Courtesy: Our Town Brentwood

A post by his relatives, Sam and Sara Nunn, on the Instagram page for their Three Nunns Farm on Friday, August 15, showed an aerial photo of the farm with the words, “Ron Nunn Dreamer & Doer” plowed into the field.

The post also reads: “He may not be walking tomato fields and cherry orchards with us anymore, but you’ll find him forever in all the countless places and people he impacted in the place he was proud to call home, Brentwood. He was larger than life and we all caught a little of his magic just by being in his orbit. We have always thought there is only joy in celebrating a life well lived, and with Ron there is no doubt. We will honor him by doing as he did, dreaming big and doing whatever it takes to make it happen! We are dedicating our 2025 corn maze to the memory of Brentwood’s best, Ron Nunn. Thank you for being you, Uncle Ron.”

As part of the 75th anniversary year of cityhood, a video interview of Nunn and an August 2023 article on the City of Brentwood’s YouTube channel entitled, “Brentwood Community Highlight: Ron Nunn” offered additional details about his life.

It reads, “Born and raised in Brentwood, Ron Nunn has firsthand experience with Brentwood’s historical changes over the years. Ron discusses his family’s multi-generational ties to Brentwood’s farming legacy dating back to the 1880s. He notes that the early days were marked by dry land wheat farming. The wheat was loaded onto ships traveling as far as Cape Horn, the southern tip of South America.” However, according to Ron’s son Bob, “Actually, it went around the horn to Liverpool, England.”

The YouTube article continues, “His favorite memories of growing up in Brentwood revolve around the vibrant festivities held at City Park, including the Apricot Festival, playful tug of war with Belgian horses, and evolving into larger community events like the Carnique and Corn Fest. These memories capture the close-knit, small-town charm that he treasures most about Brentwood.”

Nunn was honored by the Brentwood Unified School District in 1991 when they named Ron Nunn Elementary School for the local icon. All Brentwood schools will honor him posthumously next week by flying their flags at half-staff.

An obituary with more details about Nunn will be provided by his family and published at a later date.

Andrew Chao held on $50,000 bail

By Jimmy Lee, Director of Public Affairs, Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff and Jenn Starnes, PIO, Town of Danville

DANVILLE, CA: On March 1, 2025, at about 1:15 p.m., Danville police officers responded to a traffic collision at the intersection of Sycamore Valley Road and Camino Ramon. When officers arrived, they discovered a minivan and a truck involved in a collision, with the truck overturned. A female passenger in the truck was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the minivan sustained minor injuries.

According to a report by DanvilleSanRamon.com, the victim was later identified as 57-year-old Sandy Hall of San Leandro.

Detectives from the Danville Police Department launched an investigation into the collision. Last month, detectives presented the case to the Contra Costa D.A.’s Office which filed felony vehicular manslaughter charges against the driver of the minivan. An arrest warrant was issued for the driver, who was arrested Friday afternoon,  August 15, 2025, by Danville police officers.

He is identified as 72-year-old Andrew Chao of Danville (born 12/8/1952). He was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility for manslaughter. He is being held in lieu of $50,000 bail.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department, the six-foot tall, 160-pound Chao has a court date scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 18 at 1:30 p.m. in Martinez Superior Court Dept. 5.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

A drunk driver plunged their SUV off the second story of the downtown parking garage in Pleasant Hill early Sunday morning, Aug. 10, 2025. Photo: Pleasant Hill PD

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

Do not drink and drive!

Sunday morning August 10, 2025, around 4 AM, Officers responded to a collision involving a vehicle driving off the second story of the downtown parking garage. Thankfully nobody was seriously injured. Following an immediate investigation, the driver was arrested for DUI and booked at the station. Their vehicle was towed.

Please, designate a sober driver, use ride share or public transportation if you are planning on consuming alcohol. Again, everyone involved here was extremely lucky there were no serious injuries.

Be safe Pleasant Hill!

Oakley Girls Soccer Team Fuego members and coaches with check from CashSwipe founder and CEO, Paul Alex (left). Photos by Allen D. Payton

From CashSwipe founder, a former Oakland cop

Will help fund travel, equipment, development for 10- & 11-year-olds building confidence, character through sport

By Ana Tackett

In a powerful show of community investment and full-circle mentorship, CashSwipe – a national fintech company founded by former Oakland police officer and Antioch resident Paul Alex – donated $10,000 to a competitive girls’ soccer team based in Oakley. The check was formally presented on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Knoll Park in Antioch, recognizing the dedication of a team that’s as committed to personal growth as it is to the game.

The girls’ soccer team, Fuego of the Oakley Youth Soccer Club, is composed of 10- and 11-year-olds from diverse backgrounds with many from Oakley and Antioch. They travel to compete with other teams in the Nor Cal Premier Soccer League. It provides far more than athletic training. It creates an environment of support, empowerment, and discipline—helping young girls grow into confident leaders on and off the field. For many families, the financial burden of youth sports can be overwhelming. This donation will go directly toward travel to regional tournaments, high-quality uniforms, registration fees, and additional development opportunities such as clinics and camps.

“This donation means the world to our team. It’s more than just money—it’s a vote of confidence in these girls and their potential,” said Pedro “Coach Pete” Elias, head coach and also a former Oakland Police officer. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to give them experiences they’ll carry for life.”

Team Fuego practices at Knoll Park in Antioch.

Oakley’s girls’ team isn’t just playing to win—they’re playing for each other. The club’s philosophy centers around building strength of character through teamwork, accountability, and resilience. That shared mission resonated deeply with Alex, who once patrolled alongside both Coach Elias and Luis “Coach E” Espinoza. Coach. Coach Jesus “Chuy” rounds out the team’s leadership.

“This team is about more than soccer—it’s about heart,” said Espinoza. “These girls show up for one another, push themselves, and prove every day that leadership starts with integrity. I’ve known Paul since our law enforcement days, and it’s inspiring to see him invest in a new generation the way he does.”

For Alex, the donation represents more than philanthropy – it’s a reflection of purpose. After leaving a successful career in law enforcement, he launched CashSwipe to empower everyday people through passive income systems like ATM placement and merchant services. His commitment to mentorship and underserved communities has remained at the center of his work.

“Sports can be life-changing,” said Alex the company’s founder and CEO. “They teach leadership, discipline, and confidence. Every child deserves the chance to grow through those lessons—regardless of their financial situation. Supporting this team is not just about soccer—it’s about investing in future leaders and showing them what’s possible.”

Alex’s story is one of transformation. Once a police officer on the streets of the Bay Area, he saw firsthand how underserved communities—especially young people—often lack access to the very opportunities that could change their lives.

Coaches E, Pete and Chuy join CashSwipe founder and CEO Paul Alex for the donation check presentation on June 26, 2025.

Now a national entrepreneur and speaker, Alex hasn’t forgotten where he came from. His donation to the soccer team isn’t just a check – it’s a commitment to investing in young women who are striving for more despite financial barriers. The funds will cover critical needs such as uniforms, tournament fees, travel expenses, and training equipment – resources often out of reach for underfunded teams.

“I know what it feels like to grow up without much – and I know what sports can do for a young person’s confidence, discipline and future,” said Alex. “This is about more than soccer. It’s about showing these girls that someone believes in them.”

He later shared that he played on the Oakland PD soccer team and said with a laugh, “I wasn’t very good but I played.”

In communities like Oakley and Antioch, access to resources such as travel, training, and tournament fees often determines whether a child can continue to play. CashSwipe’s contribution ensures these girls can compete at the highest level without being held back by financial hardship. It’s a reminder that when businesses choose to lead with purpose, they can change lives far beyond their industry.

About CashSwipe

CashSwipe is a fintech company that helps individuals build passive income through ATM placement and merchant services. Founded by former Oakland Police Officer Paul Alex, CashSwipe is now a national brand empowering aspiring entrepreneurs to take control of their financial future. The company remains rooted in its mission of community upliftment and impact-driven opportunity. For more information visit https://cashswipe.com.

About the Oakley Girls’ Soccer Club

The Oakley Girls’ Soccer Club is a competitive program for 10- and 11-year-old athletes committed to teamwork, growth, and integrity. Led by former law enforcement officers who bring a mentorship-driven philosophy to the field, the club offers a safe and supportive space for girls from diverse and often underserved backgrounds. The program aims to develop strong athletes—and even stronger young women. For more information visit https://oakleyyouthsoccerclub.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report

The 140-acre Freschi property was added to the future Deer Valley Regional Park south of Antioch and west of Brentwood. Photo: EBRPD

Purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust; will be added to acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is pleased to announce the acquisition of 140 acres adjacent to Deer Valley Regional Park in partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy (Conservancy). The property is located in eastern unincorporated Contra Costa County south of Antioch and southwest of Brentwood, within the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP) area.

The property was purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust and is accessed from Briones Valley Road, approximately 1.3 miles west of Deer Valley Road. The property will become an addition to Deer Valley Regional Park.

Source: EBRPD

Consistent with other properties acquired in partnership with the Conservancy and conserved for the HCP/NCCP, a Covenant to Restrict Use of Property ensures that existing wildlife and habitat values are protected. The restrictive covenant permits public recreation compatible with habitat values.

The property is composed of oak woodland and oak savanna and includes sprawling grasslands, a segment of Marsh Creek riparian habitat, and a seasonal pond. No species studies have been completed yet, but habitat found on the Freschi property is known to support the California red-legged frog, the California tiger salamander, and a variety of raptors.

“This acquisition reflects the Park District’s ongoing commitment to protecting critical habitat and expanding access to nature for all,” says Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “We’re grateful for our strong partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and the support of state agencies that helped make this purchase possible. We look forward to incorporating this beautiful landscape into Deer Valley Regional Park and to preserve its ecological value for generations to come.”

Photo: EBRPD

“Preserving this land not only safeguards vital habitat but also furthers our vision of connecting people to open space in east Contra Costa County,” says Colin Coffey, Park District Board Member representing Ward 7, which includes parts of Contra Costa County. “Strategic acquisitions like this are a key part of building out a regional park network that serves both wildlife and the community. I’m proud to see this progress in a region I represent and care deeply about.”

“Land conservation in this region is made possible through strong, collaborative partnerships,” says Hugh Henderson, Board Chair for the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and Vice Mayor of the City of Oakley. “The Conservancy and the Park District worked closely with the seller to secure the protection of this property. As habitat for endangered and threatened species, this land holds significant ecological value, and we are dedicated to its long-term stewardship and conservation.”

Source: EBRPD

Will Be Added to Acreage Sold by Jack Roddy

The land is in addition to the acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners which includes the former 18-hole Roddy Ranch Golf Course located off Deer Valley Road. In 2022, the Park District adopted a Habitat Restoration and Public Access Plan to restore native grasslands across the 230-acre golf course and provide facilities for passive recreation including walking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. This parkland is part of the Conservancy’s Preserve System, which emphasizes environmental restoration and preservation.

The next phase of Park development includes:

• Restoring 84 acres of grasslands
• Installing picnic areas, restrooms, and nearly four miles of multi-use trails
• Building an interpretive pavilion for environmental education and history

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, pending permit approvals and funding.

A public ribbon cutting to celebrate the addition of the property to the Park District will take place later in the year.

Funding Sources

The property was acquired in partnership with the Conservancy using a combination of grant funds from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife ($1.5 million) with additional funding ($320,000) provided by the Wildlife Conservation Board, both secured by the Conservancy.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, over 126,000 acres, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Two 18-year-olds from Concord, two juveniles from Walnut Creek

By Lt. Bruce Jower, Walnut Creek Police Department

Four people remain in custody following an incident near Rossmoor. On Thursday, August 7, at approximately 11:00 PM, the Walnut Creek Police Department was dispatched to the 1900 block of Tice Valley Blvd. on the report of an elderly male being assaulted. Numerous Officers quickly arrived on scene and learned the victim had suffered significant injuries. Officers learned four female suspects had assaulted the victim, stole some of his personal property and then fled the scene in a vehicle.

Arrested:

Antonina Abdul-Wajid (18-year-old resident of Concord, born 8/19/2006)

Jaycee Behnke (18-year-old resident of Concord, born 3/19/2007)

Juvenile 1 (17-year-old resident of Walnut Creek)

Juvenile 2 (15-year-old resident of Walnut Creek)

Charges: 4 felony counts: robbery, assault with a deadly weapon that is not a firearm, causing injury to an elder and conspiracy to commit a crime.

Witnesses to the crime provided valuable information and Officers were able to leverage technology to confirm the suspect vehicle. Walnut Creek Police Officers were able to locate the suspect vehicle a short time later. All four suspects were taken into custody. The adults were booked into Martinez Detention Facility. The juveniles were booked into Juvenile Hall.

Walnut Creek Police Department Officers and Detectives are continuing to investigate this crime. There appears to be no continued threat to community at this stage. Due to the age of two of the suspects, their names cannot be released. The victim’s name is being withheld to protect their privacy.

Any other potential victims are encouraged to contact the Walnut Creek Police Department at 925-943-5844. Related information can also be provided anonymously via the tip line at 925-943-5865.

According to localcrimenews.com, Abudl-Wajid was also arrested by Walnut Creek Police on April 16, 2025, for battery on a spouse, cohabitant or former spouse and for being intoxicated in public. According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department the five-foot, 11-inch tall, 150-pound teen is being held in the West County Detention Facility on no bail.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department, Behnke is five-feet, five inches tall, 110-pounds, Hispanic, but is also listed as white, and is being held on $280,000 bail also at the West County Detention Facility.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.