Graphics source: CA OTS
Contra Costa Health (CCH) announced Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, that it has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for continued support of its Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program.
The program will promote safety among pedestrians and bicyclists and emphasize the drivers’ responsibility to look out for people using roads and paths. The grant program runs through September 2025.
Local data show an increase of nearly 30% in fatal crashes involving pedestrians over the past decade in Contra Costa County, and that pedestrians and bicyclists are 2.4 times more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a traffic crash compared to drivers. The OTS grant funds multiple efforts to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.
“The safety of people walking and biking on our roads is a top priority for our office,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “Everyone moves, and not always by car. It’s important that we invest in efforts to protect people walking, biking and rolling that helps establish a strong traffic safety culture where everyone on California roads can travel to and from places safely.”
Graphics source: CA OTS
Grant funds will support various activities focused on bicycle and pedestrian safety:
• Support for local jurisdictions to include public health principals in road safety plans and address the community conditions that create unsafe environments for non-motorized road users.
• Promote the CCH traffic safety campaign, “Slow Roads Save Lives.”
• Community bicycle and walk “audits” of streets with high rates of pedestrian or bicyclist fatalities and serious injury crashes.
• Bicycle training courses that teach youth skills to help them stay safe on the road.
• Community events that promote bicyclist and pedestrian visibility and the importance of sharing the road, slowing down, and staying alert to bicyclists and pedestrians while driving.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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Photo: Cobra Experience Museum
Celebrate your love story in style this Valentine’s Day in Martinez
By Dawn Kruger, Civic Outreach and Engagement Coordinator, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder’s Office
Martinez, CA — Start your love story or renew your vows in an unforgettable way this Valentine’s Day! The Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office is thrilled to announce its annual Valentine’s Day Destination Weddings, hosted this year at the iconic Cobra Experience Museum in Martinez on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Nestled in the heart of Martinez, the Cobra Experience Museum offers an elegant unique automotive setting for your special day. Surrounded by beautifully restored classic cars and a vibrant atmosphere, couples will have the opportunity to exchange vows in a venue that exudes charisma and charm. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind, memorable location, this hidden gem is the perfect place to say, “I do.”
The Cobra Experience is a non-profit museum educating future generations and celebrating Shelby American’s world dominance in sports car racing.
Event Details:
• Date: Friday, February 14, 2025
• Location: Cobra Experience Museum, 777 Arnold Drive, Suite 200, Martinez
• Appointments: Limited appointments available – secure your time by calling 925-335-7900.
“Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and we are excited to offer couples a truly special way to commemorate their union,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder and Commissioner of Marriages. “The Cobra Experience Museum provides a stunning and unique setting that makes every ceremony unforgettable.”
Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a romantic vow renewal, the Clerk’s Office staff is here to make your day seamless and stress-free. Spaces are limited and filling quickly, so don’t wait to reserve your spot.
How to Reserve
To schedule your wedding or vow renewal, contact the Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office at 925-335-7900. Our team will assist you in securing your appointment and answering any questions you may have. The Clerk-Recorder’s office has also opened additional wedding appointments at our office to accommodate the high demand on Valentine’s Day.
A marriage license must be obtained before a ceremony can be performed. Couples must purchase a license before their ceremony appointment at the County Clerk-Recorder’s office in Martinez. The fee for a public marriage license is $95, while a confidential license is $100. The Destination Wedding Ceremony fee is $120.
Celebrate your love story in style this Valentine’s Day. The Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office and the Cobra Experience Museum are ready to make your dreams come true.
About the Cobra Experience Museum
The Cobra Experience Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and legacy of Shelby American’s iconic cars. With a stunning collection of classic vehicles and engaging exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic and visually striking environment for any occasion.
For more information about this event or other Clerk’s Office services, please visit www.contracostavote.gov or call 925-335-7900.
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Kung Hei Fat Choy!
Happy New Year 2025 – The Year of the Snake!
The Year of the Snake 2025 brings the Snake’s wise and intuitive energy. The Snake, symbolizing wisdom and transformation, offers opportunities for personal growth and change. We are rising to the occasion with an incredible Lunar New Year event for all to enjoy!
Join us for our 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration. Attendees will be delighted with a Lion Dance Show by Tomizaki’s Champions Kung Fu Institute and more. Event activities will begin at 10am on the Fountain Pavilion Park, near Veranda LUXE theater. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy a special showing of Kung Fu Panda (2008). Event attendance is free, but reserve your limited-quantity goody bags in advance and/or reserve a seat for Kung Fu Panda for a donation to Monument Crisis Center.
Admission: Free
Location: The Veranda, 2001-2003 Diamond Blvd., Concord
Date: February 2, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
If you would like your child to receive a goody bag filled with themed goodies, we highly recommend bags be reserved ahead of the event. Please reserve ONE (1) bag per child in attendance. Bags cannot be guaranteed day-of event for anyone who does not have a reservation. Make your reservations HERE.
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Loaded firearm confiscated from the suspect by Brentwood Police. Photo source: Brentwood PD
In possession of loaded firearm; has history of arrests dating to 2014
By Brentwood Police Department
This past weekend, a Brentwood officer, while en route to a call, spotted 33-year-old Armondo Joseph Gomez (born 1/27/1991) of American Canyon near the 6700 block of Lone Tree Way, who was known to have a felony warrant for robbery and weapons charges.
When the officer attempted to detain Gomez, he fled on foot. However, the officer was able to safely take him into custody. Upon searching Gomez, the officer discovered a loaded firearm in his possession.
Gomez, a convicted felon, was arrested for the outstanding warrants, possession of a loaded firearm, and other related charges.
According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the six-foot, one-inch tall, 185-pound suspect is being held in the West County Detention Center on no bail and his next court date is scheduled in Delta Superior Court, Dept. 4 in Pittsburg on Feb. 3, 2025.
According to localcrimenews.com, Gomez has a history of arrests dating to 2014 by a variety of agencies in four different counties for crimes including a variety of weapons charges, battery and inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or co-habitant grand theft, stolen vehicles and shoplifting.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Source: Oakley PD
Driver of truck struck by suspect injured, hospitalized
By Oakley Police Department
On January 26, 2025, at 9:16AM Oakley Police Officer G. Ganz located a stolen vehicle driving in the area of Gamay Drive and Empire Avenue. Officer Ganz followed the vehicle as it turned north on Teakwood Drive. As Officer Ganz was following the vehicle, it was learned the person who was suspected of stealing the vehicle was named as Joseph McDonald (44, Brentwood) who was a parolee at large — he has violated the terms of his parole and is wanted back in custody.
Officer Ganz attempted to stop the stolen vehicle, and the driver fled and attempted to make a righthand turn onto eastbound Main Street at a high rate of speed. The driver of the stolen vehicle collided into a Ram 1500 truck, which was travelling westbound on Main Street; both vehicles were immediately disabled. Officers took the driver of the stolen vehicle into custody and determined it was indeed McDonald who had been driving it. The driver of the Ram truck was transported to a local hospital for injuries sustained in the collision. McDonald was also transported to a local hospital and as of this writing, remains hospitalized and in the custody of the Oakley Police Department. Oakley Police staff will be working on getting McDonald formally booked and transferred into the custody of the Sheriff’s Office.
Chief Paul Beard notes, “By mere virtue of Mr. McDonald being a parolee at large, this incident is not the first time he has crossed the threshold of right and wrong. Should McDonald have been out on parole? NO. McDonald was clearly demonstrating a continued pattern of a criminal lifestyle and people were at risk of harm because he was allowed the freedom of prison. I appreciate the efforts of officers like Officer Ganz to hold wrongdoers accountable, and I hope to see charges filed against McDonald that are commensurate to his actions. Collectively, the members of the Oakley Police Department wish for the quick healing of the innocent person who was injured in this incident.
Stay safe Oakley.”
Alexis Gabe from her missing poster photo in 2022 and her ex-boyfriend Marshall Jones seen unloading a black plastic bag at his mother’s house on Jan. 28, 2022. Source: Video screenshot from Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page.
“We are extremely disappointed” – Gwyn Gabe, Alexis’ father
Holds vigil on 3rd anniversary of day she went missing
Share videos showing Marshall Jones unloading black garbage bags at mother’s home, her discovering them in the garage, the two speaking, laughing and hugging
By Allen D. Payton
In a post on the Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, her father Gwyn Gabe provided a response to the decision by the Contra Costa District Attorney to not pursue charges against Alicia Coleman-Clark, the mother of Alexis’ alleged murderer, her now-deceased ex-boyfriend Marshall Curtis Jones, III. Gwyn wrote, “It’s not over.” (See related article) Part of Alexis’ remains were found in Amador County. Jones was later killed when police attempted to arrest him in Washington state. (See related articles here and here)
Post on Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page on Jan. 24, 2025.
Gwyn Gabe went on to write, “We are extremely disappointed. We just concluded a conversation with DA Diana Becton and Deputy DA Simon O’Connell. Despite having a substantial amount of evidence, they still declined to pursue charges.”
Another post on the Facebook page from July 2, 2022, was shared, showing Coleman-Clark’s mugshot which reads, “This is a picture of Marshall’s mother. She was arrested on May 19, 2022 and charged with Penal Code 32 (aiding & abetting) by OPD, but the DA declined to file charges.”
Alicia Coleman-Clark and her son Marshall Jones in front of her house in screenshots of undated security surveillance videos. Source: Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page.
Security Surveillance Videos at Suspect’s Mother’s Home
A security surveillance video from his mother’s house posted on that same Facebook page on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, shows Marshall Jones unloading black garbage bags from a truck at his mother’s house in Antioch. The post reads:
“THE BLACK GARBAGE BAGS.
Our case has concluded, and as I promised, here is the video of Marshall Jones unloading black garbage bags at his mother’s house on January 28, 2022. This video gave us nightmares and is quite disturbing and difficult to view. Please be careful with your comments. The ADT camera captures footage every 30 seconds, so you might see some gaps. I will share more videos soon.”
Another, undated video posted earlier that day shows his mother, Coleman-Clark, speaking on the phone with someone. The comment with the video reads, “Discovering the bags in her garage. ‘They’re ice cold….like they just came out of the refrigerator.’”
A third, undated video from what appears to be the same day also posted on the group’s Facebook page on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, shows Jones speaking with his mother wearing the same dress as in the undated video above, with the truck in the same location as it was shown in the previous video in which he unloaded the black bags. The comment with that post reads, “Garbage bags back in the SUV and on his way to his sister’s house. ‘I didn’t want to do it, but I did it’ ‘Come back thereafter, so people can see you’ ‘You can have people do it’ ‘Don’t talk to anybody.’ What else did you hear?”
More videos are posted on the Facebook page, including one on Saturday, Jan. 25, which includes the comment, “Just got back from Amador County. The karaoke party is still happening. Someone seemed a bit upset, though.”
A vigil for Alexis was held on Sunday night, Jan. 26, the third anniversary of the date she went missing. KTVU FOX 2, KPIX 5 News, NBC News Bay Area and ABC 7 News covered the event.
“It still really hurts everyday that you wake up without my daughter,” said Alexis’ mother, Rowena Gabe.
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“We do not collect or share information about your immigration status unless required by state or federal law or a court order.” – Contra Costa County
Amid recent changes and concerns about federal immigration policies following executive orders signed by President Trump this past Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, Contra Costa County wants to reassure you about our unwavering commitment to all members of our community, regardless of immigration status.
Entitled, Protecting The American People Against Invasion, the president’s E.O. reads as follows:
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose. Over the last 4 years, the prior administration invited, administered, and oversaw an unprecedented flood of illegal immigration into the United States. Millions of illegal aliens crossed our borders or were permitted to fly directly into the United States on commercial flights and allowed to settle in American communities, in violation of longstanding Federal laws.
Many of these aliens unlawfully within the United States present significant threats to national security and public safety, committing vile and heinous acts against innocent Americans. Others are engaged in hostile activities, including espionage, economic espionage, and preparations for terror-related activities. Many have abused the generosity of the American people, and their presence in the United States has cost taxpayers billions of dollars at the Federal, State, and local levels.
Enforcing our Nation’s immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the United States. The American people deserve a Federal Government that puts their interaests first and a Government that understands its sacred obligation to prioritize the safety, security, and financial and economic well-being of Americans.
This order ensures that the Federal Government protects the American people by faithfully executing the immigration laws of the United States.
Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to faithfully execute the immigration laws against all inadmissible and removable aliens, particularly those aliens who threaten the safety or security of the American people. Further, it is the policy of the United States to achieve the total and efficient enforcement of those laws, including through lawful incentives and detention capabilities.
Sec. 3. Faithful Execution of the Immigration Laws. In furtherance of the policies described in section 2 of this order:
(a) Executive Order 13993 of January 20, 2021 (Revision of Civil Immigration Enforcement Policies and Priorities), Executive Order 14010 of February 2, 2021 (Creating a Comprehensive Regional Framework To Address the Causes of Migration, To Manage Migration Throughout North and Central America, and To Provide Safe and Orderly Processing of Asylum Seekers at the United States Border), Executive Order 14011 of February 2, 2021 (Establishment of Interagency Task Force on the Reunification of Families), and Executive Order 14012 of February 2, 2021 (Restoring Faith in Our Legal Immigration Systems and Strengthening Integration and Inclusion Efforts for New Americans) are hereby revoked; and
(b) Executive departments and agencies (agencies) shall take all appropriate action to promptly revoke all memoranda, guidance, or other policies based on the Executive Orders revoked in section 3(a) of this order and shall employ all lawful means to ensure the faithful execution of the immigration laws of the United States against all inadmissible and removable aliens.
Sec. 4. Civil Enforcement Priorities. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to enable the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to set priorities for their agencies that protect the public safety and national security interests of the American people, including by ensuring the successful enforcement of final orders of removal. Further, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall ensure that the primary mission of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations division is the enforcement of the provisions of the INA and other Federal laws related to the illegal entry and unlawful presence of aliens in the United States and the enforcement of the purposes of this order.
Sec. 5. Criminal Enforcement Priorities. The Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall take all appropriate action to prioritize the prosecution of criminal offenses related to the unauthorized entry or continued unauthorized presence of aliens in the United States.
Sec. 6. Federal Homeland Security Task Forces. (a) The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to jointly establish Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTFs) in all States nationwide.
(b) The composition of each HSTF shall be subject to the direction of the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security, but shall include representation from any other Federal agencies with law enforcement officers, or agencies with the ability to provide logistics, intelligence, and operational support to the HSTFs, and shall also include representation from relevant State and local law enforcement agencies. The heads of all Federal agencies shall take all appropriate action to provide support to the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to ensure that the HSTFs fulfill the objectives in subsection (c) of this section, and any other lawful purpose that fulfills the policy objectives of this order.
(c) The objective of each HSTF is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations throughout the United States, dismantle cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks, end the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking, with a particular focus on such offenses involving children, and ensure the use of all available law enforcement tools to faithfully execute the immigration laws of the United States.
(d) The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to provide an operational command center to coordinate the activities of the HSTFs and provide such support as they may require, and shall also take all appropriate action to provide supervisory direction to their activities as may be required.
Sec. 7. Identification of Unregistered Illegal Aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, shall take all appropriate action to:
(a) Immediately announce and publicize information about the legal obligation of all previously unregistered aliens in the United States to comply with the requirements of part VII of subchapter II of chapter 12 of title 8, United States Code;
(b) Ensure that all previously unregistered aliens in the United States comply with the requirements of part VII of subchapter II of chapter 12 of title 8, United States Code; and
(c) Ensure that failure to comply with the legal obligations of part VII of subchapter II of chapter 12 of title 8, United States Code, is treated as a civil and criminal enforcement priority.
Sec. 8. Civil Fines and Penalties. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of Treasury, shall take all appropriate action to ensure the assessment and collection of all fines and penalties that the Secretary of Homeland Security is authorized by law to assess and collect from aliens unlawfully present in the United States, including aliens who unlawfully entered or unlawfully attempted to enter the United States, and from those who facilitate such aliens’ presence in the United States.
(b) Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a report to the President regarding their progress implementing the requirements of this section and recommending any additional actions that may need to be taken to achieve its objectives.
Sec. 9. Efficient Removals of Recent Entrants and Other Aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action, pursuant to section 235(b)(1)(A)(iii)(I) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1225(b)(1)(A)(iii)(I)), to apply, in her sole and unreviewable discretion, the provisions of section 235(b)(1)(A)(i) and (ii) of the INA to the aliens designated under section 235(b)(1)(A)(iii)(II). Further, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly take appropriate action to use all other provisions of the immigration laws or any other Federal law, including, but not limited to sections 238 and 240(d) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1228 and 1229a(d)), to ensure the efficient and expedited removal of aliens from the United States.
Sec. 10. Detention Facilities. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly take all appropriate action and allocate all legally available resources or establish contracts to construct, operate, control, or use facilities to detain removable aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security, further, shall take all appropriate actions to ensure the detention of aliens apprehended for violations of immigration law pending the outcome of their removal proceedings or their removal from the country, to the extent permitted by law.
Sec. 11. Federal-State Agreements. To ensure State and local law enforcement agencies across the United States can assist with the protection of the American people, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall, to the maximum extent permitted by law, and with the consent of State or local officials as appropriate, take appropriate action, through agreements under section 287(g) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1357(g)) or otherwise, to authorize State and local law enforcement officials, as the Secretary of Homeland Security determines are qualified and appropriate, to perform the functions of immigration officers in relation to the investigation, apprehension, or detention of aliens in the United States under the direction and the supervision of the Secretary of Homeland Security. Such authorization shall be in addition to, rather than in place of, Federal performance of these duties. To the extent permitted by law, the Secretary of Homeland Security may structure each agreement under section 287(g) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1357(g)) in the manner that provides the most effective model for enforcing Federal immigration laws in that jurisdiction.
Sec. 12. Encouraging Voluntary Compliance with the Law. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, and subject to adequate safeguards, assurances, bonds, and any other lawful measure, to adopt policies and procedures to encourage aliens unlawfully in the United States to voluntarily depart as soon as possible, including through enhanced usage of the provisions of section 240B of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1229c), international agreements or assistance, or any other measures that encourage aliens unlawfully in the United States to depart as promptly as possible, including through removals of aliens as provided by section 250 of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1260).
Sec. 13. Recalcitrant Countries. The Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to:
(a) Cooperate and effectively implement, as appropriate, the sanctions provided by section 243(d) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1253(d)), with the Secretary of State, to the maximum extent permitted by law, ensuring that diplomatic efforts and negotiations with foreign states include the foreign states’ acceptance of their nationals who are subject to removal from the United States; and
(b) Eliminate all documentary barriers, dilatory tactics, or other restrictions that prevent the prompt repatriation of aliens to any foreign state. Any failure or delay by a foreign state to verify the identity of a national of that state shall be considered in carrying out subsection (a) this section, and shall also be considered regarding the issuance of any other sanctions that may be available to the United States.
Sec. 14. Visa Bonds. The Secretary of Treasury shall take all appropriate action, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, to establish a system to facilitate the administration of all bonds that the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security may lawfully require to administer the provisions of the INA.
Sec. 15. Reestablishment of the VOICE Office and Addressing Victims of Crimes Committed by Removable Aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall direct the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to take all appropriate and lawful action to reestablish within ICE an office to provide proactive, timely, adequate, and professional services to victims of crimes committed by removable aliens, and those victims’ family members. The Attorney General shall also ensure that the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 3771 are followed in all Federal prosecutions involving crimes committed by removable aliens.
Sec. 16. Addressing Actions by the Previous Administration. The Secretary of State, the Attorney General, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly take all appropriate action, consistent with law, to rescind the policy decisions of the previous administration that led to the increased or continued presence of illegal aliens in the United States, and align any and all departmental activities with the policies set out by this order and the immigration laws. Such action should include, but is not limited to:
(a) ensuring that the parole authority under section 212(d)(5) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(5)) is exercised on only a case-by-case basis in accordance with the plain language of the statute, and in all circumstances only when an individual alien demonstrates urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit derived from their particular continued presence in the United States arising from such parole;
(b) ensuring that designations of Temporary Protected Status are consistent with the provisions of section 244 of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1254a), and that such designations are appropriately limited in scope and made for only so long as may be necessary to fulfill the textual requirements of that statute; and
(c) ensuring that employment authorization is provided in a manner consistent with section 274A of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1324a), and that employment authorization is not provided to any unauthorized alien in the United States.
Sec. 17. Sanctuary Jurisdictions. The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall, to the maximum extent possible under law, evaluate and undertake any lawful actions to ensure that so-called “sanctuary” jurisdictions, which seek to interfere with the lawful exercise of Federal law enforcement operations, do not receive access to Federal funds. Further, the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall evaluate and undertake any other lawful actions, criminal or civil, that they deem warranted based on any such jurisdiction’s practices that interfere with the enforcement of Federal law.
Sec. 18. Information Sharing. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly issue guidance to ensure maximum compliance by Department of Homeland Security personnel with the provisions of 8 U.S.C. 1373 and 8 U.S.C. 1644 and ensure that State and local governments are provided with the information necessary to fulfill law enforcement, citizenship, or immigration status verification requirements authorized by law; and
(b) The Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to stop the trafficking and smuggling of alien children into the United States, including through the sharing of any information necessary to assist in the achievement of that objective.
Sec. 19. Funding Review. The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall:
(a) Immediately review and, if appropriate, audit all contracts, grants, or other agreements providing Federal funding to non-governmental organizations supporting or providing services, either directly or indirectly, to removable or illegal aliens, to ensure that such agreements conform to applicable law and are free of waste, fraud, and abuse, and that they do not promote or facilitate violations of our immigration laws;
(b) Pause distribution of all further funds pursuant to such agreements pending the results of the review in subsection (a) of this section;
(c) Terminate all such agreements determined to be in violation of law or to be sources of waste, fraud, or abuse and prohibit any such future agreements;
(d) Coordinate with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to ensure that no funding for agreements described in subsection (c) of this section is included in any appropriations request for the Department of Justice or the Department of Homeland Security; and
(e) Initiate clawback or recoupment procedures, if appropriate, for any agreements described in subsection (c) of this section.
Sec. 20. Denial of Public Benefits to Illegal Aliens. The Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall take all appropriate action to ensure that all agencies identify and stop the provision of any public benefits to any illegal alien not authorized to receive them under the provisions of the INA or other relevant statutory provisions.
Sec. 21. Hiring More Agents and Officers. Subject to available appropriations, the Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, shall take all appropriate action to significantly increase the number of agents and officers available to perform the duties of immigration officers.
Sec. 22. Severability. It is the policy of the United States to enforce this order to the maximum extent possible to advance the interests of the United States. Accordingly:
(a) If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its other provisions to any other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby; and
(b) If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid because of the failure to follow certain procedures, the relevant executive branch officials shall implement those procedural requirements to conform with existing law and with any applicable court orders.
Sec. 23. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
THE WHITE HOUSE, January 20, 2025.
Contra Costa County’s Approach:
1. No Discrimination: Contra Costa County does not single out individuals based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, or immigration status.
2. Privacy Protection: We do not collect or share information about your immigration status unless required by state or federal law or a court order. Safeguarding your personal information is one of our most important priorities.
3. Access to Services: Everyone in our community should be able to access essential services, including healthcare. Recent federal actions will not affect how the County provides these services.
We recognize that fear and uncertainty can prevent people from seeking County programs and services, but we want to assure you that our services are here for you. You have the right to feel safe and secure in your community, and our longstanding policies are designed to uphold your safety and trust.
Contra Costa County stands united in creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone has the support they need to thrive. We encourage you to reach out for assistance without hesitation, knowing that our commitment to serving and protecting all residents is steadfast.
For more information: Immigration Resources & Public Charge Information visit Immigration Resources & Public Charge Information | EHSD
El Condado de Contra Costa Responde a las Recientes Órdenes Ejecutivas
En medio de los cambios recientes y las preocupaciones sobre las políticas federales de inmigración, el Condado de Contra Costa quiere asegurarle nuestro compromiso inquebrantable con todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad, independientemente de su estatus migratorio.
Nuestro Enfoque:
1. No discriminación: El Condado de Contra Costa no señala a las personas en función de su raza, etnia, origen nacional, religión, género o identidad de género, orientación sexual o estado migratorio.
2. Protección de la privacidad: No recopilamos ni compartimos información sobre su estado migratorio a menos que lo exija la ley estatal o federal o una orden judicial. Salvaguardar su información personal es una de nuestras prioridades más importantes.
3. Acceso a los servicios: Todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad deberían poder acceder a los servicios esenciales, incluida la atención médica. Las acciones federales recientes no afectarán la forma en que el Condado proporciona estos servicios.
4.
Reconocemos que el miedo y la incertidumbre pueden impedir que las personas busquen programas y servicios del Condado, pero queremos asegurarle que nuestros servicios están aquí para usted. Usted tiene derecho a sentirse seguro y protegido en su comunidad, y nuestras políticas de larga data están diseñadas para mantener su seguridad y confianza.
El Condado de Contra Costa se mantiene unido en la creación de un ambiente acogedor e inclusivo donde todos tienen el apoyo que necesitan para prosperar. Lo alentamos a que busque ayuda sin dudarlo, sabiendo que nuestro compromiso de servir y proteger a todos los residentes es firme.
Para más información: Recursos de Inmigración e Información de Carga Pública | EHSD
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Arrested in 2021 in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador for multiple online child exploitation offences
Multi-agency effort
Sentenced to 2 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, must register as a sex offender for 10 years
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office
A 25-year-old man from Gulf Island, Canada, has been sentenced to prison for sexually extorting a minor in Contra Costa County in 2020, in what is commonly referred to as a “Sextortion” attack.
In the fall of 2019, Nicholas Fahey used a social media application to contact a minor in Contra Costa County and solicited sexually explicit images from the victim. After the victim complied, Fahey sent the victim a series of threats, indicating he would release the images of the victim unless the victim complied with his demands for more photographs.
The investigation was referred to the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Fahey was identified as the suspect through an investigation of his social media accounts. Ultimately, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police arrested Fahey at his home in Bay Bulls, Canada, located in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Fahey was charged on May 21, 2021, in Canada’s version of Superior Court.
On January 23, 2025, Fahey was sentenced to two years in prison and ordered to register as a sex offender for 10 years. Fahey will also serve a term of three years of supervised release.
“This investigation highlights the shared commitment of the ICAC Task Force and HSI to pursue criminals, even those operating beyond U.S. borders,” said District Attorney Diana Becton. “Parents need to understand that individuals who prey on minors online are not restricted by national or state boundaries. Those who use the internet to harm our youth should know that my office will collaborate with law enforcement agencies like the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to seek justice for the victims in our county.”
Sextortion is the most common crime targeting children on social media. According to the FBI, between 2021 and 2023, 12,600 children in the United States were victims of sextortion, resulting in at least 20 suicides.
To report sextortion, contact your local law enforcement agency or file a report with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about the risks associated with smartphone use and social media. If parents, educators, or organizations are interested in presentations on topics like smartphones, social media, or our Vigilant Parents initiative, please contact the District Attorney’s Office at DAOffice@contracostada.org.
According to Corporal Jolene Garland, Media Relations Officer of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Newfoundland and Labrador, on April 29, 2021, then-twenty-two-year-old Nicholas Fahey of Gull Island was arrested, following an investigation by the RCMP/RNC Integrated Internet Child Exploitation (IICE) team. He is charged with multiple online child exploitation offences.
The investigation began in early 2020, after police received reports from the US Department of Homeland Security that two American youth had been exploited online by a resident of this province. A local investigation by IICE led to a search warrant that was executed on a Gull Island residence in July of 2020.
Fahey is now charged with the following criminal offences:
• Possession of Child Pornography
• Transmission of Child Pornography
• Making Sexually Explicit Material Available to a Child
• Luring a Child (x2)
• Indecent Act (exposure)
• Extortion (x2)
• Invitation to Sexual Touching
Fahey was released from custody on conditions designed to protect the general public and was scheduled to appear in court on June 16, 2021.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to exercise proper supervision of children while online and to foster regular discussions with their children about online safety.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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The USS Potomac on the San Francisco Bay and President Franklin D. Roosevelt aboard the boat. Source: USS Potomac Association
Historic Open House at Jack London Square Jan. 30
By Marci Bracco Cain, The Buzz PR and Jennifer Pettley, Executive Director, USS Potomac Association
Oakland, CA – Two historic milestones come together in a one-of-a-kind celebration on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, as the USS Potomac honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 143rd Birthday and commemorates the 30th Anniversary of its reopening to the public after a stunning 14-year restoration.
Held at Jack London Square in Oakland, this free, family-friendly open house invites attendees to explore history aboard FDR’s presidential yacht—famously known as the “Floating White House.” Featuring dockside tours, an inspiring keynote address, and interactive activities, this event is a can’t-miss opportunity to step into the legacy of one of America’s most transformative leaders.
Opportunities
1. A Presidential Milestone with Local Ties – Honor FDR’s enduring legacy as the 32nd President of the United States and his unique connection to the Bay Area through the USS Potomac.
2. A Tale of Redemption: The Potomac’s Restoration Journey – From a DEA drug bust and near-sinking to a $5 million restoration and revival, the USS Potomac’s dramatic rescue and preservation stand as a testament to the value of historical conservation.
3. Exclusive Free Tours of a National Treasure – The USS Potomac is the only site west of the Mississippi dedicated to FDR’s legacy. Dockside tours offer a rare chance to connect with this floating piece of history.
4. A Community Celebration with a Modern Twist – Engaging elements like vintage-themed activities, a trivia challenge, and a selfie station bring history to life for all ages.
Event Highlights
• Dockside Tours (10:00 AM–1:30 PM): Step aboard the USS Potomac and explore the historic presidential yacht that carried FDR through pivotal moments in history.
• Keynote Presentation (12:00 PM): Hear from Walter Abernathy, retired CEO of the Port of Oakland, as he shares the gripping story of how the USS Potomac was rescued from destruction, restored, and transformed into a community treasure.
• Birthday Celebration (1:00 PM): Enjoy a ceremonial cake cutting and coffee toast to honor FDR’s 143rd birthday.
• Interactive Elements:
o FDR Trivia Challenge: Test your knowledge for a chance to win prizes.
o Selfie Station: Snap photos with vintage props and share them using #FDRBirthdayBash.
o Era Attire Contest: Dress in 1930s–1940s fashion for a chance to win exclusive USS Potomac merchandise.
From Sunk to Celebrated
The USS Potomac’s history is as compelling as the man it served. Once a key presidential retreat, the yacht’s story took a dramatic turn when it was seized in a DEA drug sting, sank in San Francisco Bay, and was ultimately rescued by the Port of Oakland. This open house marks 30 years since its public reopening, celebrating its transformation into a cherished historical landmark and a must-see destination.
Community Engagement
• Free Swag Raffle: Visitors can sign up for the USS Potomac e-newsletter for a chance to win FDR-themed gifts like mugs, T-shirts, and posters.
• Historical Short Film: A 10-minute documentary shown in the museum will capture the fascinating story of the USS Potomac and its role in FDR’s presidency.
• Community Groups & Clubs: Partnerships with local historical societies, veterans’ organizations, and college history clubs will enhance the event and bring together diverse audiences.
Event Details
• Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Location: USS Potomac Museum & Yacht, 540 Water St, Jack London Square, Oakland
• Admission: Free and open to the public
About the USS Potomac
Built in 1934, the USS Potomac served as President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht until 1945. Known as the “Floating White House,” the vessel provided FDR with a sanctuary and a strategic meeting place during a transformative era in American history.
After a dramatic fall from grace—including its time as a Coast Guard cutter and a drug-running vessel—the yacht was rescued and meticulously restored. Operated today by the nonprofit USS Potomac Association, it offers educational programs, public cruises, and private charters, preserving a vital piece of America’s past.
For details on the 2025 season and booking, visit www.usspotomac.org.
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Matthew Muller mugshot, Dublin, California, June 9, 2015. Source: Wikipedia
For a previously unreported 2015 kidnapping for ransom at residence near San Ramon
Arizona kidnapping became focus of 2024 season of Netflix true crime series “American Nightmare”
By Ted Asregadoo, Public Information Officer, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office has filed a three-count felony complaint against a convicted kidnapper and rapist whose crimes include a high-profile case featured in a documentary series.
Matthew Daniel Muller, 47, is currently serving a 40-year federal prison sentence in Tucson, Arizona, for the 2015 kidnapping and rape of Denise Huskins — a case that drew widespread media attention and became the focus of the 2024 season of American Nightmare, a Netflix true crime series.
According to his Wikipedia page, Muller is a former immigration attorney, and Marine veteran. He is known for carrying out the kidnapping in Vallejo, California, referred to in the media as the ”Gone Girl” kidnapping.
The new charges filed on Jan. 6, 2025, by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office stem from a previously unreported 2015 kidnapping for ransom at a residence in an unincorporated area of San Ramon. The crime came to light over the course of 2024 through correspondence between law enforcement and Muller, during which he confessed to multiple crimes in Northern California, including the 2015 incident in Contra Costa County.
After learning of Muller’s confession, detectives from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation, despite the lack of a reported crime in 2015. The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office joined the investigation on December 13th, 2024, which included a meeting with Muller.
In the spring of 2015, Muller unlawfully held two John Does and one Jane Doe for ransom, demanding that one of the captives withdraw tens of thousands of dollars from their bank account to secure the release of the others. After obtaining the money, Muller fled the residence.
Fearing retribution, the victims never reported the crime. To this day, they have chosen to remain anonymous.
The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office collaborated with the El Dorado and Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Offices to coordinate investigative efforts. These efforts resulted in three felony charges of kidnapping for ransom [PC 209(a)] filed in Contra Costa Superior Court.
“The trauma of crime can have lasting effects that some people endure for their entire lives – whether the crime is reported or not,” said Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton. “Muller committed serious offenses throughout Northern California, and my office will be resolute in seeking justice on behalf of the victims in Contra Costa County.”
Muller is scheduled to be arraigned on the charges at a future date in Contra Costa Superior Court.
The case is “The People of the State of California v. Muller, Matthew Daniel.”
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Graphics source: CA OTS
Contra Costa Health (CCH) announced Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, that it has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for continued support of its Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program.
The program will promote safety among pedestrians and bicyclists and emphasize the drivers’ responsibility to look out for people using roads and paths. The grant program runs through September 2025.
Local data show an increase of nearly 30% in fatal crashes involving pedestrians over the past decade in Contra Costa County, and that pedestrians and bicyclists are 2.4 times more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a traffic crash compared to drivers. The OTS grant funds multiple efforts to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.
“The safety of people walking and biking on our roads is a top priority for our office,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “Everyone moves, and not always by car. It’s important that we invest in efforts to protect people walking, biking and rolling that helps establish a strong traffic safety culture where everyone on California roads can travel to and from places safely.”
Graphics source: CA OTS
Grant funds will support various activities focused on bicycle and pedestrian safety:
• Support for local jurisdictions to include public health principals in road safety plans and address the community conditions that create unsafe environments for non-motorized road users.
• Promote the CCH traffic safety campaign, “Slow Roads Save Lives.”
• Community bicycle and walk “audits” of streets with high rates of pedestrian or bicyclist fatalities and serious injury crashes.
• Bicycle training courses that teach youth skills to help them stay safe on the road.
• Community events that promote bicyclist and pedestrian visibility and the importance of sharing the road, slowing down, and staying alert to bicyclists and pedestrians while driving.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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Photo: Cobra Experience Museum
Celebrate your love story in style this Valentine’s Day in Martinez
By Dawn Kruger, Civic Outreach and Engagement Coordinator, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder’s Office
Martinez, CA — Start your love story or renew your vows in an unforgettable way this Valentine’s Day! The Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office is thrilled to announce its annual Valentine’s Day Destination Weddings, hosted this year at the iconic Cobra Experience Museum in Martinez on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Nestled in the heart of Martinez, the Cobra Experience Museum offers an elegant unique automotive setting for your special day. Surrounded by beautifully restored classic cars and a vibrant atmosphere, couples will have the opportunity to exchange vows in a venue that exudes charisma and charm. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind, memorable location, this hidden gem is the perfect place to say, “I do.”
The Cobra Experience is a non-profit museum educating future generations and celebrating Shelby American’s world dominance in sports car racing.
Event Details:
• Date: Friday, February 14, 2025
• Location: Cobra Experience Museum, 777 Arnold Drive, Suite 200, Martinez
• Appointments: Limited appointments available – secure your time by calling 925-335-7900.
“Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and we are excited to offer couples a truly special way to commemorate their union,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder and Commissioner of Marriages. “The Cobra Experience Museum provides a stunning and unique setting that makes every ceremony unforgettable.”
Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a romantic vow renewal, the Clerk’s Office staff is here to make your day seamless and stress-free. Spaces are limited and filling quickly, so don’t wait to reserve your spot.
How to Reserve
To schedule your wedding or vow renewal, contact the Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office at 925-335-7900. Our team will assist you in securing your appointment and answering any questions you may have. The Clerk-Recorder’s office has also opened additional wedding appointments at our office to accommodate the high demand on Valentine’s Day.
A marriage license must be obtained before a ceremony can be performed. Couples must purchase a license before their ceremony appointment at the County Clerk-Recorder’s office in Martinez. The fee for a public marriage license is $95, while a confidential license is $100. The Destination Wedding Ceremony fee is $120.
Celebrate your love story in style this Valentine’s Day. The Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office and the Cobra Experience Museum are ready to make your dreams come true.
About the Cobra Experience Museum
The Cobra Experience Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and legacy of Shelby American’s iconic cars. With a stunning collection of classic vehicles and engaging exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic and visually striking environment for any occasion.
For more information about this event or other Clerk’s Office services, please visit www.contracostavote.gov or call 925-335-7900.
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Kung Hei Fat Choy!
Happy New Year 2025 – The Year of the Snake!
The Year of the Snake 2025 brings the Snake’s wise and intuitive energy. The Snake, symbolizing wisdom and transformation, offers opportunities for personal growth and change. We are rising to the occasion with an incredible Lunar New Year event for all to enjoy!
Join us for our 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration. Attendees will be delighted with a Lion Dance Show by Tomizaki’s Champions Kung Fu Institute and more. Event activities will begin at 10am on the Fountain Pavilion Park, near Veranda LUXE theater. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy a special showing of Kung Fu Panda (2008). Event attendance is free, but reserve your limited-quantity goody bags in advance and/or reserve a seat for Kung Fu Panda for a donation to Monument Crisis Center.
Admission: Free
Location: The Veranda, 2001-2003 Diamond Blvd., Concord
Date: February 2, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
If you would like your child to receive a goody bag filled with themed goodies, we highly recommend bags be reserved ahead of the event. Please reserve ONE (1) bag per child in attendance. Bags cannot be guaranteed day-of event for anyone who does not have a reservation. Make your reservations HERE.
Read MoreLoaded firearm confiscated from the suspect by Brentwood Police. Photo source: Brentwood PD
In possession of loaded firearm; has history of arrests dating to 2014
By Brentwood Police Department
This past weekend, a Brentwood officer, while en route to a call, spotted 33-year-old Armondo Joseph Gomez (born 1/27/1991) of American Canyon near the 6700 block of Lone Tree Way, who was known to have a felony warrant for robbery and weapons charges.
When the officer attempted to detain Gomez, he fled on foot. However, the officer was able to safely take him into custody. Upon searching Gomez, the officer discovered a loaded firearm in his possession.
Gomez, a convicted felon, was arrested for the outstanding warrants, possession of a loaded firearm, and other related charges.
According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the six-foot, one-inch tall, 185-pound suspect is being held in the West County Detention Center on no bail and his next court date is scheduled in Delta Superior Court, Dept. 4 in Pittsburg on Feb. 3, 2025.
According to localcrimenews.com, Gomez has a history of arrests dating to 2014 by a variety of agencies in four different counties for crimes including a variety of weapons charges, battery and inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or co-habitant grand theft, stolen vehicles and shoplifting.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreSource: Oakley PD
Driver of truck struck by suspect injured, hospitalized
By Oakley Police Department
On January 26, 2025, at 9:16AM Oakley Police Officer G. Ganz located a stolen vehicle driving in the area of Gamay Drive and Empire Avenue. Officer Ganz followed the vehicle as it turned north on Teakwood Drive. As Officer Ganz was following the vehicle, it was learned the person who was suspected of stealing the vehicle was named as Joseph McDonald (44, Brentwood) who was a parolee at large — he has violated the terms of his parole and is wanted back in custody.
Officer Ganz attempted to stop the stolen vehicle, and the driver fled and attempted to make a righthand turn onto eastbound Main Street at a high rate of speed. The driver of the stolen vehicle collided into a Ram 1500 truck, which was travelling westbound on Main Street; both vehicles were immediately disabled. Officers took the driver of the stolen vehicle into custody and determined it was indeed McDonald who had been driving it. The driver of the Ram truck was transported to a local hospital for injuries sustained in the collision. McDonald was also transported to a local hospital and as of this writing, remains hospitalized and in the custody of the Oakley Police Department. Oakley Police staff will be working on getting McDonald formally booked and transferred into the custody of the Sheriff’s Office.
Chief Paul Beard notes, “By mere virtue of Mr. McDonald being a parolee at large, this incident is not the first time he has crossed the threshold of right and wrong. Should McDonald have been out on parole? NO. McDonald was clearly demonstrating a continued pattern of a criminal lifestyle and people were at risk of harm because he was allowed the freedom of prison. I appreciate the efforts of officers like Officer Ganz to hold wrongdoers accountable, and I hope to see charges filed against McDonald that are commensurate to his actions. Collectively, the members of the Oakley Police Department wish for the quick healing of the innocent person who was injured in this incident.
Stay safe Oakley.”
Alexis Gabe from her missing poster photo in 2022 and her ex-boyfriend Marshall Jones seen unloading a black plastic bag at his mother’s house on Jan. 28, 2022. Source: Video screenshot from Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page.
“We are extremely disappointed” – Gwyn Gabe, Alexis’ father
Holds vigil on 3rd anniversary of day she went missing
Share videos showing Marshall Jones unloading black garbage bags at mother’s home, her discovering them in the garage, the two speaking, laughing and hugging
By Allen D. Payton
In a post on the Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, her father Gwyn Gabe provided a response to the decision by the Contra Costa District Attorney to not pursue charges against Alicia Coleman-Clark, the mother of Alexis’ alleged murderer, her now-deceased ex-boyfriend Marshall Curtis Jones, III. Gwyn wrote, “It’s not over.” (See related article) Part of Alexis’ remains were found in Amador County. Jones was later killed when police attempted to arrest him in Washington state. (See related articles here and here)
Post on Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page on Jan. 24, 2025.
Gwyn Gabe went on to write, “We are extremely disappointed. We just concluded a conversation with DA Diana Becton and Deputy DA Simon O’Connell. Despite having a substantial amount of evidence, they still declined to pursue charges.”
Another post on the Facebook page from July 2, 2022, was shared, showing Coleman-Clark’s mugshot which reads, “This is a picture of Marshall’s mother. She was arrested on May 19, 2022 and charged with Penal Code 32 (aiding & abetting) by OPD, but the DA declined to file charges.”
Alicia Coleman-Clark and her son Marshall Jones in front of her house in screenshots of undated security surveillance videos. Source: Justice for Alexis Gabe Facebook page.
Security Surveillance Videos at Suspect’s Mother’s Home
A security surveillance video from his mother’s house posted on that same Facebook page on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, shows Marshall Jones unloading black garbage bags from a truck at his mother’s house in Antioch. The post reads:
“THE BLACK GARBAGE BAGS.
Our case has concluded, and as I promised, here is the video of Marshall Jones unloading black garbage bags at his mother’s house on January 28, 2022. This video gave us nightmares and is quite disturbing and difficult to view. Please be careful with your comments. The ADT camera captures footage every 30 seconds, so you might see some gaps. I will share more videos soon.”
Another, undated video posted earlier that day shows his mother, Coleman-Clark, speaking on the phone with someone. The comment with the video reads, “Discovering the bags in her garage. ‘They’re ice cold….like they just came out of the refrigerator.’”
A third, undated video from what appears to be the same day also posted on the group’s Facebook page on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, shows Jones speaking with his mother wearing the same dress as in the undated video above, with the truck in the same location as it was shown in the previous video in which he unloaded the black bags. The comment with that post reads, “Garbage bags back in the SUV and on his way to his sister’s house. ‘I didn’t want to do it, but I did it’ ‘Come back thereafter, so people can see you’ ‘You can have people do it’ ‘Don’t talk to anybody.’ What else did you hear?”
More videos are posted on the Facebook page, including one on Saturday, Jan. 25, which includes the comment, “Just got back from Amador County. The karaoke party is still happening. Someone seemed a bit upset, though.”
A vigil for Alexis was held on Sunday night, Jan. 26, the third anniversary of the date she went missing. KTVU FOX 2, KPIX 5 News, NBC News Bay Area and ABC 7 News covered the event.
“It still really hurts everyday that you wake up without my daughter,” said Alexis’ mother, Rowena Gabe.
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“We do not collect or share information about your immigration status unless required by state or federal law or a court order.” – Contra Costa County
Amid recent changes and concerns about federal immigration policies following executive orders signed by President Trump this past Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, Contra Costa County wants to reassure you about our unwavering commitment to all members of our community, regardless of immigration status.
Entitled, Protecting The American People Against Invasion, the president’s E.O. reads as follows:
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose. Over the last 4 years, the prior administration invited, administered, and oversaw an unprecedented flood of illegal immigration into the United States. Millions of illegal aliens crossed our borders or were permitted to fly directly into the United States on commercial flights and allowed to settle in American communities, in violation of longstanding Federal laws.
Many of these aliens unlawfully within the United States present significant threats to national security and public safety, committing vile and heinous acts against innocent Americans. Others are engaged in hostile activities, including espionage, economic espionage, and preparations for terror-related activities. Many have abused the generosity of the American people, and their presence in the United States has cost taxpayers billions of dollars at the Federal, State, and local levels.
Enforcing our Nation’s immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the United States. The American people deserve a Federal Government that puts their interaests first and a Government that understands its sacred obligation to prioritize the safety, security, and financial and economic well-being of Americans.
This order ensures that the Federal Government protects the American people by faithfully executing the immigration laws of the United States.
Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to faithfully execute the immigration laws against all inadmissible and removable aliens, particularly those aliens who threaten the safety or security of the American people. Further, it is the policy of the United States to achieve the total and efficient enforcement of those laws, including through lawful incentives and detention capabilities.
Sec. 3. Faithful Execution of the Immigration Laws. In furtherance of the policies described in section 2 of this order:
(a) Executive Order 13993 of January 20, 2021 (Revision of Civil Immigration Enforcement Policies and Priorities), Executive Order 14010 of February 2, 2021 (Creating a Comprehensive Regional Framework To Address the Causes of Migration, To Manage Migration Throughout North and Central America, and To Provide Safe and Orderly Processing of Asylum Seekers at the United States Border), Executive Order 14011 of February 2, 2021 (Establishment of Interagency Task Force on the Reunification of Families), and Executive Order 14012 of February 2, 2021 (Restoring Faith in Our Legal Immigration Systems and Strengthening Integration and Inclusion Efforts for New Americans) are hereby revoked; and
(b) Executive departments and agencies (agencies) shall take all appropriate action to promptly revoke all memoranda, guidance, or other policies based on the Executive Orders revoked in section 3(a) of this order and shall employ all lawful means to ensure the faithful execution of the immigration laws of the United States against all inadmissible and removable aliens.
Sec. 4. Civil Enforcement Priorities. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to enable the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to set priorities for their agencies that protect the public safety and national security interests of the American people, including by ensuring the successful enforcement of final orders of removal. Further, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall ensure that the primary mission of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations division is the enforcement of the provisions of the INA and other Federal laws related to the illegal entry and unlawful presence of aliens in the United States and the enforcement of the purposes of this order.
Sec. 5. Criminal Enforcement Priorities. The Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall take all appropriate action to prioritize the prosecution of criminal offenses related to the unauthorized entry or continued unauthorized presence of aliens in the United States.
Sec. 6. Federal Homeland Security Task Forces. (a) The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to jointly establish Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTFs) in all States nationwide.
(b) The composition of each HSTF shall be subject to the direction of the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security, but shall include representation from any other Federal agencies with law enforcement officers, or agencies with the ability to provide logistics, intelligence, and operational support to the HSTFs, and shall also include representation from relevant State and local law enforcement agencies. The heads of all Federal agencies shall take all appropriate action to provide support to the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to ensure that the HSTFs fulfill the objectives in subsection (c) of this section, and any other lawful purpose that fulfills the policy objectives of this order.
(c) The objective of each HSTF is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations throughout the United States, dismantle cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks, end the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking, with a particular focus on such offenses involving children, and ensure the use of all available law enforcement tools to faithfully execute the immigration laws of the United States.
(d) The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to provide an operational command center to coordinate the activities of the HSTFs and provide such support as they may require, and shall also take all appropriate action to provide supervisory direction to their activities as may be required.
Sec. 7. Identification of Unregistered Illegal Aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, shall take all appropriate action to:
(a) Immediately announce and publicize information about the legal obligation of all previously unregistered aliens in the United States to comply with the requirements of part VII of subchapter II of chapter 12 of title 8, United States Code;
(b) Ensure that all previously unregistered aliens in the United States comply with the requirements of part VII of subchapter II of chapter 12 of title 8, United States Code; and
(c) Ensure that failure to comply with the legal obligations of part VII of subchapter II of chapter 12 of title 8, United States Code, is treated as a civil and criminal enforcement priority.
Sec. 8. Civil Fines and Penalties. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of Treasury, shall take all appropriate action to ensure the assessment and collection of all fines and penalties that the Secretary of Homeland Security is authorized by law to assess and collect from aliens unlawfully present in the United States, including aliens who unlawfully entered or unlawfully attempted to enter the United States, and from those who facilitate such aliens’ presence in the United States.
(b) Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a report to the President regarding their progress implementing the requirements of this section and recommending any additional actions that may need to be taken to achieve its objectives.
Sec. 9. Efficient Removals of Recent Entrants and Other Aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action, pursuant to section 235(b)(1)(A)(iii)(I) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1225(b)(1)(A)(iii)(I)), to apply, in her sole and unreviewable discretion, the provisions of section 235(b)(1)(A)(i) and (ii) of the INA to the aliens designated under section 235(b)(1)(A)(iii)(II). Further, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly take appropriate action to use all other provisions of the immigration laws or any other Federal law, including, but not limited to sections 238 and 240(d) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1228 and 1229a(d)), to ensure the efficient and expedited removal of aliens from the United States.
Sec. 10. Detention Facilities. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly take all appropriate action and allocate all legally available resources or establish contracts to construct, operate, control, or use facilities to detain removable aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security, further, shall take all appropriate actions to ensure the detention of aliens apprehended for violations of immigration law pending the outcome of their removal proceedings or their removal from the country, to the extent permitted by law.
Sec. 11. Federal-State Agreements. To ensure State and local law enforcement agencies across the United States can assist with the protection of the American people, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall, to the maximum extent permitted by law, and with the consent of State or local officials as appropriate, take appropriate action, through agreements under section 287(g) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1357(g)) or otherwise, to authorize State and local law enforcement officials, as the Secretary of Homeland Security determines are qualified and appropriate, to perform the functions of immigration officers in relation to the investigation, apprehension, or detention of aliens in the United States under the direction and the supervision of the Secretary of Homeland Security. Such authorization shall be in addition to, rather than in place of, Federal performance of these duties. To the extent permitted by law, the Secretary of Homeland Security may structure each agreement under section 287(g) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1357(g)) in the manner that provides the most effective model for enforcing Federal immigration laws in that jurisdiction.
Sec. 12. Encouraging Voluntary Compliance with the Law. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, and subject to adequate safeguards, assurances, bonds, and any other lawful measure, to adopt policies and procedures to encourage aliens unlawfully in the United States to voluntarily depart as soon as possible, including through enhanced usage of the provisions of section 240B of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1229c), international agreements or assistance, or any other measures that encourage aliens unlawfully in the United States to depart as promptly as possible, including through removals of aliens as provided by section 250 of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1260).
Sec. 13. Recalcitrant Countries. The Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to:
(a) Cooperate and effectively implement, as appropriate, the sanctions provided by section 243(d) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1253(d)), with the Secretary of State, to the maximum extent permitted by law, ensuring that diplomatic efforts and negotiations with foreign states include the foreign states’ acceptance of their nationals who are subject to removal from the United States; and
(b) Eliminate all documentary barriers, dilatory tactics, or other restrictions that prevent the prompt repatriation of aliens to any foreign state. Any failure or delay by a foreign state to verify the identity of a national of that state shall be considered in carrying out subsection (a) this section, and shall also be considered regarding the issuance of any other sanctions that may be available to the United States.
Sec. 14. Visa Bonds. The Secretary of Treasury shall take all appropriate action, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, to establish a system to facilitate the administration of all bonds that the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security may lawfully require to administer the provisions of the INA.
Sec. 15. Reestablishment of the VOICE Office and Addressing Victims of Crimes Committed by Removable Aliens. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall direct the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to take all appropriate and lawful action to reestablish within ICE an office to provide proactive, timely, adequate, and professional services to victims of crimes committed by removable aliens, and those victims’ family members. The Attorney General shall also ensure that the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 3771 are followed in all Federal prosecutions involving crimes committed by removable aliens.
Sec. 16. Addressing Actions by the Previous Administration. The Secretary of State, the Attorney General, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly take all appropriate action, consistent with law, to rescind the policy decisions of the previous administration that led to the increased or continued presence of illegal aliens in the United States, and align any and all departmental activities with the policies set out by this order and the immigration laws. Such action should include, but is not limited to:
(a) ensuring that the parole authority under section 212(d)(5) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(5)) is exercised on only a case-by-case basis in accordance with the plain language of the statute, and in all circumstances only when an individual alien demonstrates urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit derived from their particular continued presence in the United States arising from such parole;
(b) ensuring that designations of Temporary Protected Status are consistent with the provisions of section 244 of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1254a), and that such designations are appropriately limited in scope and made for only so long as may be necessary to fulfill the textual requirements of that statute; and
(c) ensuring that employment authorization is provided in a manner consistent with section 274A of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1324a), and that employment authorization is not provided to any unauthorized alien in the United States.
Sec. 17. Sanctuary Jurisdictions. The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall, to the maximum extent possible under law, evaluate and undertake any lawful actions to ensure that so-called “sanctuary” jurisdictions, which seek to interfere with the lawful exercise of Federal law enforcement operations, do not receive access to Federal funds. Further, the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall evaluate and undertake any other lawful actions, criminal or civil, that they deem warranted based on any such jurisdiction’s practices that interfere with the enforcement of Federal law.
Sec. 18. Information Sharing. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly issue guidance to ensure maximum compliance by Department of Homeland Security personnel with the provisions of 8 U.S.C. 1373 and 8 U.S.C. 1644 and ensure that State and local governments are provided with the information necessary to fulfill law enforcement, citizenship, or immigration status verification requirements authorized by law; and
(b) The Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all appropriate action to stop the trafficking and smuggling of alien children into the United States, including through the sharing of any information necessary to assist in the achievement of that objective.
Sec. 19. Funding Review. The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall:
(a) Immediately review and, if appropriate, audit all contracts, grants, or other agreements providing Federal funding to non-governmental organizations supporting or providing services, either directly or indirectly, to removable or illegal aliens, to ensure that such agreements conform to applicable law and are free of waste, fraud, and abuse, and that they do not promote or facilitate violations of our immigration laws;
(b) Pause distribution of all further funds pursuant to such agreements pending the results of the review in subsection (a) of this section;
(c) Terminate all such agreements determined to be in violation of law or to be sources of waste, fraud, or abuse and prohibit any such future agreements;
(d) Coordinate with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to ensure that no funding for agreements described in subsection (c) of this section is included in any appropriations request for the Department of Justice or the Department of Homeland Security; and
(e) Initiate clawback or recoupment procedures, if appropriate, for any agreements described in subsection (c) of this section.
Sec. 20. Denial of Public Benefits to Illegal Aliens. The Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall take all appropriate action to ensure that all agencies identify and stop the provision of any public benefits to any illegal alien not authorized to receive them under the provisions of the INA or other relevant statutory provisions.
Sec. 21. Hiring More Agents and Officers. Subject to available appropriations, the Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, shall take all appropriate action to significantly increase the number of agents and officers available to perform the duties of immigration officers.
Sec. 22. Severability. It is the policy of the United States to enforce this order to the maximum extent possible to advance the interests of the United States. Accordingly:
(a) If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its other provisions to any other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby; and
(b) If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid because of the failure to follow certain procedures, the relevant executive branch officials shall implement those procedural requirements to conform with existing law and with any applicable court orders.
Sec. 23. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
THE WHITE HOUSE, January 20, 2025.
Contra Costa County’s Approach:
1. No Discrimination: Contra Costa County does not single out individuals based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, or immigration status.
2. Privacy Protection: We do not collect or share information about your immigration status unless required by state or federal law or a court order. Safeguarding your personal information is one of our most important priorities.
3. Access to Services: Everyone in our community should be able to access essential services, including healthcare. Recent federal actions will not affect how the County provides these services.
We recognize that fear and uncertainty can prevent people from seeking County programs and services, but we want to assure you that our services are here for you. You have the right to feel safe and secure in your community, and our longstanding policies are designed to uphold your safety and trust.
Contra Costa County stands united in creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone has the support they need to thrive. We encourage you to reach out for assistance without hesitation, knowing that our commitment to serving and protecting all residents is steadfast.
For more information: Immigration Resources & Public Charge Information visit Immigration Resources & Public Charge Information | EHSD
El Condado de Contra Costa Responde a las Recientes Órdenes Ejecutivas
En medio de los cambios recientes y las preocupaciones sobre las políticas federales de inmigración, el Condado de Contra Costa quiere asegurarle nuestro compromiso inquebrantable con todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad, independientemente de su estatus migratorio.
Nuestro Enfoque:
1. No discriminación: El Condado de Contra Costa no señala a las personas en función de su raza, etnia, origen nacional, religión, género o identidad de género, orientación sexual o estado migratorio.
2. Protección de la privacidad: No recopilamos ni compartimos información sobre su estado migratorio a menos que lo exija la ley estatal o federal o una orden judicial. Salvaguardar su información personal es una de nuestras prioridades más importantes.
3. Acceso a los servicios: Todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad deberían poder acceder a los servicios esenciales, incluida la atención médica. Las acciones federales recientes no afectarán la forma en que el Condado proporciona estos servicios.
4.
Reconocemos que el miedo y la incertidumbre pueden impedir que las personas busquen programas y servicios del Condado, pero queremos asegurarle que nuestros servicios están aquí para usted. Usted tiene derecho a sentirse seguro y protegido en su comunidad, y nuestras políticas de larga data están diseñadas para mantener su seguridad y confianza.
El Condado de Contra Costa se mantiene unido en la creación de un ambiente acogedor e inclusivo donde todos tienen el apoyo que necesitan para prosperar. Lo alentamos a que busque ayuda sin dudarlo, sabiendo que nuestro compromiso de servir y proteger a todos los residentes es firme.
Para más información: Recursos de Inmigración e Información de Carga Pública | EHSD
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Arrested in 2021 in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador for multiple online child exploitation offences
Multi-agency effort
Sentenced to 2 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, must register as a sex offender for 10 years
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office
A 25-year-old man from Gulf Island, Canada, has been sentenced to prison for sexually extorting a minor in Contra Costa County in 2020, in what is commonly referred to as a “Sextortion” attack.
In the fall of 2019, Nicholas Fahey used a social media application to contact a minor in Contra Costa County and solicited sexually explicit images from the victim. After the victim complied, Fahey sent the victim a series of threats, indicating he would release the images of the victim unless the victim complied with his demands for more photographs.
The investigation was referred to the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Fahey was identified as the suspect through an investigation of his social media accounts. Ultimately, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police arrested Fahey at his home in Bay Bulls, Canada, located in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Fahey was charged on May 21, 2021, in Canada’s version of Superior Court.
On January 23, 2025, Fahey was sentenced to two years in prison and ordered to register as a sex offender for 10 years. Fahey will also serve a term of three years of supervised release.
“This investigation highlights the shared commitment of the ICAC Task Force and HSI to pursue criminals, even those operating beyond U.S. borders,” said District Attorney Diana Becton. “Parents need to understand that individuals who prey on minors online are not restricted by national or state boundaries. Those who use the internet to harm our youth should know that my office will collaborate with law enforcement agencies like the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to seek justice for the victims in our county.”
Sextortion is the most common crime targeting children on social media. According to the FBI, between 2021 and 2023, 12,600 children in the United States were victims of sextortion, resulting in at least 20 suicides.
To report sextortion, contact your local law enforcement agency or file a report with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about the risks associated with smartphone use and social media. If parents, educators, or organizations are interested in presentations on topics like smartphones, social media, or our Vigilant Parents initiative, please contact the District Attorney’s Office at DAOffice@contracostada.org.
According to Corporal Jolene Garland, Media Relations Officer of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Newfoundland and Labrador, on April 29, 2021, then-twenty-two-year-old Nicholas Fahey of Gull Island was arrested, following an investigation by the RCMP/RNC Integrated Internet Child Exploitation (IICE) team. He is charged with multiple online child exploitation offences.
The investigation began in early 2020, after police received reports from the US Department of Homeland Security that two American youth had been exploited online by a resident of this province. A local investigation by IICE led to a search warrant that was executed on a Gull Island residence in July of 2020.
Fahey is now charged with the following criminal offences:
• Possession of Child Pornography
• Transmission of Child Pornography
• Making Sexually Explicit Material Available to a Child
• Luring a Child (x2)
• Indecent Act (exposure)
• Extortion (x2)
• Invitation to Sexual Touching
Fahey was released from custody on conditions designed to protect the general public and was scheduled to appear in court on June 16, 2021.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to exercise proper supervision of children while online and to foster regular discussions with their children about online safety.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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The USS Potomac on the San Francisco Bay and President Franklin D. Roosevelt aboard the boat. Source: USS Potomac Association
Historic Open House at Jack London Square Jan. 30
By Marci Bracco Cain, The Buzz PR and Jennifer Pettley, Executive Director, USS Potomac Association
Oakland, CA – Two historic milestones come together in a one-of-a-kind celebration on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, as the USS Potomac honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 143rd Birthday and commemorates the 30th Anniversary of its reopening to the public after a stunning 14-year restoration.
Held at Jack London Square in Oakland, this free, family-friendly open house invites attendees to explore history aboard FDR’s presidential yacht—famously known as the “Floating White House.” Featuring dockside tours, an inspiring keynote address, and interactive activities, this event is a can’t-miss opportunity to step into the legacy of one of America’s most transformative leaders.
Opportunities
1. A Presidential Milestone with Local Ties – Honor FDR’s enduring legacy as the 32nd President of the United States and his unique connection to the Bay Area through the USS Potomac.
2. A Tale of Redemption: The Potomac’s Restoration Journey – From a DEA drug bust and near-sinking to a $5 million restoration and revival, the USS Potomac’s dramatic rescue and preservation stand as a testament to the value of historical conservation.
3. Exclusive Free Tours of a National Treasure – The USS Potomac is the only site west of the Mississippi dedicated to FDR’s legacy. Dockside tours offer a rare chance to connect with this floating piece of history.
4. A Community Celebration with a Modern Twist – Engaging elements like vintage-themed activities, a trivia challenge, and a selfie station bring history to life for all ages.
Event Highlights
• Dockside Tours (10:00 AM–1:30 PM): Step aboard the USS Potomac and explore the historic presidential yacht that carried FDR through pivotal moments in history.
• Keynote Presentation (12:00 PM): Hear from Walter Abernathy, retired CEO of the Port of Oakland, as he shares the gripping story of how the USS Potomac was rescued from destruction, restored, and transformed into a community treasure.
• Birthday Celebration (1:00 PM): Enjoy a ceremonial cake cutting and coffee toast to honor FDR’s 143rd birthday.
• Interactive Elements:
o FDR Trivia Challenge: Test your knowledge for a chance to win prizes.
o Selfie Station: Snap photos with vintage props and share them using #FDRBirthdayBash.
o Era Attire Contest: Dress in 1930s–1940s fashion for a chance to win exclusive USS Potomac merchandise.
From Sunk to Celebrated
The USS Potomac’s history is as compelling as the man it served. Once a key presidential retreat, the yacht’s story took a dramatic turn when it was seized in a DEA drug sting, sank in San Francisco Bay, and was ultimately rescued by the Port of Oakland. This open house marks 30 years since its public reopening, celebrating its transformation into a cherished historical landmark and a must-see destination.
Community Engagement
• Free Swag Raffle: Visitors can sign up for the USS Potomac e-newsletter for a chance to win FDR-themed gifts like mugs, T-shirts, and posters.
• Historical Short Film: A 10-minute documentary shown in the museum will capture the fascinating story of the USS Potomac and its role in FDR’s presidency.
• Community Groups & Clubs: Partnerships with local historical societies, veterans’ organizations, and college history clubs will enhance the event and bring together diverse audiences.
Event Details
• Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Location: USS Potomac Museum & Yacht, 540 Water St, Jack London Square, Oakland
• Admission: Free and open to the public
About the USS Potomac
Built in 1934, the USS Potomac served as President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht until 1945. Known as the “Floating White House,” the vessel provided FDR with a sanctuary and a strategic meeting place during a transformative era in American history.
After a dramatic fall from grace—including its time as a Coast Guard cutter and a drug-running vessel—the yacht was rescued and meticulously restored. Operated today by the nonprofit USS Potomac Association, it offers educational programs, public cruises, and private charters, preserving a vital piece of America’s past.
For details on the 2025 season and booking, visit www.usspotomac.org.
Read MoreMatthew Muller mugshot, Dublin, California, June 9, 2015. Source: Wikipedia
For a previously unreported 2015 kidnapping for ransom at residence near San Ramon
Arizona kidnapping became focus of 2024 season of Netflix true crime series “American Nightmare”
By Ted Asregadoo, Public Information Officer, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office has filed a three-count felony complaint against a convicted kidnapper and rapist whose crimes include a high-profile case featured in a documentary series.
Matthew Daniel Muller, 47, is currently serving a 40-year federal prison sentence in Tucson, Arizona, for the 2015 kidnapping and rape of Denise Huskins — a case that drew widespread media attention and became the focus of the 2024 season of American Nightmare, a Netflix true crime series.
According to his Wikipedia page, Muller is a former immigration attorney, and Marine veteran. He is known for carrying out the kidnapping in Vallejo, California, referred to in the media as the ”Gone Girl” kidnapping.
The new charges filed on Jan. 6, 2025, by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office stem from a previously unreported 2015 kidnapping for ransom at a residence in an unincorporated area of San Ramon. The crime came to light over the course of 2024 through correspondence between law enforcement and Muller, during which he confessed to multiple crimes in Northern California, including the 2015 incident in Contra Costa County.
After learning of Muller’s confession, detectives from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation, despite the lack of a reported crime in 2015. The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office joined the investigation on December 13th, 2024, which included a meeting with Muller.
In the spring of 2015, Muller unlawfully held two John Does and one Jane Doe for ransom, demanding that one of the captives withdraw tens of thousands of dollars from their bank account to secure the release of the others. After obtaining the money, Muller fled the residence.
Fearing retribution, the victims never reported the crime. To this day, they have chosen to remain anonymous.
The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office collaborated with the El Dorado and Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Offices to coordinate investigative efforts. These efforts resulted in three felony charges of kidnapping for ransom [PC 209(a)] filed in Contra Costa Superior Court.
“The trauma of crime can have lasting effects that some people endure for their entire lives – whether the crime is reported or not,” said Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton. “Muller committed serious offenses throughout Northern California, and my office will be resolute in seeking justice on behalf of the victims in Contra Costa County.”
Muller is scheduled to be arraigned on the charges at a future date in Contra Costa Superior Court.
The case is “The People of the State of California v. Muller, Matthew Daniel.”
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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