News from the East Bay Regional Park District
By Jen Vanya, Public Information Specialist, EBRPD
Visitor safety is always important for the East Bay Regional Park District, especially during times of excessive heat. Beat the heat in Regional Parks by preparing in advance for your adventure. Before heading out, make sure you check the weather and pay close attention to any heat advisories and warnings.
Here are some tips to stay safe when visiting Regional Parks on hot days:
- Stay hydrated and bring plenty of water.
- Stay cool by wearing a hat and loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
- Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
- Those vulnerable to heat should consider visiting on days when it is less hot.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.
- Don’t forget your pets! Bring water for them, as water from streams or ponds is not always available or safe to drink.
Whenever it’s hot, fire safety is essential. Visitors must follow all fire safety rules, including no fireworks and no smoking anywhere in parks. Visit the Park District’s Alerts/Closures page (www.ebparks.org/alerts) for Fire Danger Level notices.
Regional Parks with cool weather and shady trails offer an escape from the summer heat. Here are some great options: Point Pinole Regional Shoreline (Richmond), Tilden Regional Park (Berkeley), Briones Regional Park (Lafayette, Martinez), George Miller Jr. Trail (Martinez to Port Costa), Diablo Foothills Regional Park (Walnut Creek, Concord, Alamo), Big Break Regional Shoreline (Oakley), Las Trampas Regional Wilderness (San Ramon), Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park (Oakland), Crown Memorial State Beach (Alameda), Coyote Hills Regional Park (Fremont), Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve (Sunol). For more info, visit www.ebparks.org/visit/shady-hikes-cooler-parks.
Three Beat-the-Heat Hikes are scheduled in August at Black Diamond Regional Preserve and Del Valle Regional Park. At Black Diamond, enjoy a morning stroll up the shaded Chaparral loop on Saturday, August 12, 2023, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Get some exercise and learn how chaparral survives the hot and dry summer months. At Del Valle, enjoy moderate morning hike on Sunday, August 13, 2023, from 8:30-11:00 am and Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. along the East Shore Trail, with oak woodlands and beautiful views of Lake Del Valle. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/calendar and search “Beat the Heat Hikes.”
Looking for a “Cool” activity? The Coal Mine Experience at Black Diamond Mines takes visitors deep beneath the surface to a time when coal powered California. The interactive and immersive experience transports visitors back in time with the sights and sounds of an active 1870s-era coal mine, with stories of the toils, triumphs, and tragedies embedded under the hills.
The Coal Mine Experience is located inside the Hazel-Atlas Mine at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve where temperatures are in the mid-50’s year-round, so bring a jacket or wear layered clothing.
Registration is required. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/calendar and search “Coal Mine Experience.” All participants must be age 7 or older, and parent participation is required. Hard hats are required and provided.
The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,300 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives more than 25 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.
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By Kelly Kalfsbeek, PIO, Contra Costa County Public Works Department
The Contra Costa County Public Works Department will install one-way traffic control on Marsh Creek Road from approximately 1.3 miles northwest of Deer Valley Road near the Clayton Palms Community to approximately 0.6 miles west beginning on Monday, August 7, 2023, through April 2024, barring unforeseen circumstances.
The traffic control will include installing a temporary traffic signal system to allow one direction of traffic at a time through the Marsh Creek Road Bridges Replacement Project work area for the public’s safety. Message boards and signage will alert drivers about the traffic control. Drivers should expect delays up to 15 minutes.
The project will replace two (2) bridges on Marsh Creek Road with two (2) new concrete bridges. Work will take place on Marsh Creek Road at Bridges 143 and 145. Bridge 143 is located approximately 1.5 miles northwest of Deer Valley Road near the Clayton Palms Community. Bridge 145 is located approximately 3.0 miles east of Deer Valley Road near the road transition to Camino Diablo. Work also includes reconstruction of the bridge approach and construction of drainage facilities. The temporary traffic signal system to allow one direction of traffic will be installed at the Bridge 143 site only.
Funding for this project is provided by the federal Highway Bridge Program and local Gas Tax funds. To learn more about this project, please visit: www.contracosta.ca.gov/MCR-Bridge
About Contra Costa County Public Works Department:
Contra Costa County Public Works Department (CCCPWD) maintains over 660 miles of roads, 150 miles of streams, channels, and other drainage and over 150 County buildings throughout Contra Costa County. CCCPWD provides services such as Parks and Recreation, Sandbag Distribution and Flood Control throughout the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. CCCPWD operates two airports, Buchanan Field Airport in Concord, and Byron Airport in Byron. For more information about CCCPWD, please visit us at: www.cccpublicworks.org Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @cccpublicworks
Read MoreContra Costa Health (CCH) is investigating two recent deaths associated with legionellosis (Legionnaires’ Disease), potentially linked to visits to the Zen Day Spa at 12230 San Pablo Avenue in Richmond.
The deaths were reported to CCH on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. Investigation of the deaths revealed both patients had reportedly visited the spa just days prior to the onset of their illnesses.
CCH is aware of a third person who was infected with Legionnaires’ Disease after using the jacuzzi tub at the Zen Day Spa in June. That patient recovered.
CCH’s Environmental Health inspectors conducted an assessment of the facility and found no existing records indicating the business has ever been issued a permit for a spa or pool. CCH closed the spa on Friday.
CCH is taking samples of the water at the spa and will send them for lab analysis to confirm the presence of legionella bacteria. Preliminary results are expected by early next week.
Legionnaires’ Disease presents as a severe form of pneumonia that can result in hospitalization yet, is treatable with antibiotics. The incubation period following exposure is typically 2 to 14 days.
CCH encourages anyone who may have recently visited Zen Day Spa to watch for symptoms of Legionnaires’ Disease. If they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fever, chills and cough, they should seek immediate medical care.
CCH strongly advises healthcare providers to test for legionella in patients with pneumonia who have visited Zen Day Spa within two weeks of their illness. Testing is also recommended for hospitalized patients with pneumonia of unknown cause.
Legionella bacteria are commonly found in natural freshwater sources such as lakes and streams. However, health concerns arise when these bacteria grow and spread in human-made water systems such as hot tubs.
People can become infected after breathing in small water droplets containing Legionella bacteria, which can become airborne through mist in a hot tub or via the use of hoses and faucets.
Individuals at higher risk of Legionnaires’ Disease include people over 50 years of age, those with a past or current smoking history, individuals with chronic lung disease, or those with a weakened immune system.
It is important to note that Legionnaires’ Disease does not spread from person to person.
CCH is actively working to investigate the source of the potential outbreak and to prevent further cases. Important updates will be posted on the CCH Facebook page at facebook.com/contracostahealth.
Read MoreJelani Killings will focus on government accountability, public safety, economic development and homelessness
May challenge six-term incumbent Glover
“The county has to do a better job of partnering with cities.” – Jelani Killings
By Allen D. Payton
In a post on his personal Facebook page on July 20, two-term Pittsburg Councilman and former mayor, Jelani Killings announced his campaign for Contra Costa County Supervisor in District 5 in the March 2024 Primary. He wrote, “I am thrilled to announce that I am running for Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors District 5! I look forward to sharing my vision for the County and earning the vote of District 5 residents. See press release for the official announcement and stay tuned for more details about the campaign and how you can get involved! Thank you in advance for the support, prayers, and contributions that will make this campaign a success!”
District 5 includes the cities of Pittsburg, Hercules, Martinez, Pittsburg and portion of Pinole, the northern portion of Antioch and the unincorporated communities of Bay Point, Rodeo, Pacheco, Crockett, Clyde, Port Costa, Alhambra Valley, Briones, Tormey, Mt. View, Vine Hill and Reliez Valley.
Six-term incumbent Federal Glover has not yet announced if he is going to run again in 2024. But that isn’t stopping Killings from jumping in the race.
A July 20th press release about his campaign reads, “A visionary leader for Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors District 5: Jelani Killings
Jelani Killings, a dynamic and experienced public servant, announces his candidacy for Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors District 5. With a fresh perspective and a passion for addressing the community’s needs, Killings brings the energy and leadership necessary to ignite positive change. With an impressive track record serving on the Pittsburg City Council, Killings is poised to bring his experience, integrity, and forward-thinking approach to the next level.
During his two-term tenure on the Pittsburg City Council, Jelani Killings has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to his community and has proven himself as a leader who thinks critically and acts independently. His passion for serving the people and dedication to government accountability has earned him the trust and respect of his constituents as well as leaders throughout the region.
“District 5 has the potential to be the economic and cultural backbone of Contra Costa County,” said Killings. “I envision a future where our community thrives, and its potential is fully realized. Together, we will build a brighter and more prosperous future for all.”
Killings’ platform is centered around three core pillars: government accountability, public safety and economic development. As a tireless advocate for transparency and responsible governance, he aims to foster an environment of trust and cooperation between the County and its residents.
Regarding public safety, Killings understands that a safe community is the bedrock upon which all other progress is built. He is committed to working collaboratively with law enforcement agencies and community leaders to ensure a safer environment for all District 5 residents.
Furthermore, Killings recognizes the immense potential for economic growth in District 5. With his passion for economic development and a clear vision, he plans to increase support for small businesses, champion additional investments for workforce development, and revitalize local industries, ultimately boosting the county’s economy.
His campaign’s motto, “Vision, Integrity, Accountability,” reflects Killings’ unwavering dedication to serving the people and bringing positive change to Contra Costa County. With his proven leadership qualities and experience, Jelani Killings is undoubtedly the candidate to lead District 5 into a prosperous future.
About Jelani Killings
Jelani Killings is a well-respected public servant, having served on the Pittsburg City Council for the past seven years. He brings a wealth of experience, determination, and fresh ideas to his campaign for the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors District 5. Jelani is a champion of government accountability, public safety, and economic development, and he envisions a brighter future for the community he loves.
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When reached for comment Killings said, “I’m excited. I’m already feeling the heat a little bit. My campaign is not predicated on whether Glover runs for re-election or not. For the past two elections he said it would be his last.”
Killings has worked for the City of Oakland for the past 10 years and currently works for the City’s Public Ethics Commission dealing with campaign finance, government ethics, transparency and lobbyist laws in Oakland. Previously he worked as an Office Manager for H&R Block and a Youth Program Coordinator, STS Academy.
He was first elected to the Pittsburg City Council in 2016 then re-elected in 2020 the year he served has mayor.
His bio on votersedge.org during the 2020 campaign reads, “A Pittsburg native and Pittsburg High School graduate, Mayor Killings has dedicated his life to serving others and giving back to the community that inspired him growing up. He is a proud husband, father, minister, and mentor. He currently serves on the City Council’s Finance, Economic Development, and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) committees. Mayor Killings also serves as a city representative to the East Bay League of California Cities, Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), and the 2×2 School District committees.”
On the issues and his major concerns in the supervisor’s race, he shared, “The county has to make some tough decisions in the next few years. There’s going to have to be some cutbacks. Finance has shared that there are issues that will have to be addressed with the budget. Economic development is going to be a focus and public safety is definitely a strong focus.”
“When I talk about accountability, I’m talking about efficiencies and sustainability of the programs the county runs,” Killings continued. “They’re looking at what to do about homelessness. We’ve seen exorbitant amounts of money spent on homelessness over the past decade but statewide, countywide and even in East County the outcomes haven’t been addressing the problems surrounding it.”
“The county has to do a better job of partnering with cities,” he stated. “In Pittsburg we had the county working with the state to take over Motel 6. The City really had no say in the process. Our consolation prize was them giving us two years of a dedicated CORE team in our community.”
“The larger conversation must be about housing itself,” Killings explained. “I’m more of a supply and demand person, when the government is holding the purse for new, affordable housing, then you have local regulations and litigation that’s slowing down the approval process and production overall of new housing.”
The councilman and candidate for supervisor, earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Clark Atlanta University in 2009 and a Master’s in Public Administration – Public Management and Policy from Cal State East Bay in 2015. He is married with two children, a daughter age 8 and a son, age 5.
Killings said he is in the process of forming a campaign committee and developing a website. For now, for more information or to contact the candidate email killingsforsupervisor2024@gmail.com or visit his official city council Facebook page.
The filing deadline in the race is December 8. If no one wins a majority of the vote in March, the top two candidates will face off in a run-off election in the November General Election.
An effort to reach Glover to determine if he has made a decision about the 2024 election yet, was unsuccessful prior to publication. Please check back later for any updates to this report.
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By Allen D. Payton
A post on the Pleasant Hill Police Department Twitter feed and Facebook page late Friday night provided the following information: “Shoplifter busted; working with our local loss prevention partners, we have been trying to crack down on shoplifting. Friday night, just before closing a suspect was apprehended for felony level theft at Kohl’s (in the Crossroads Shopping Center). The suspect was booked at the PD. All merchandise was returned.”
No other details were provided.
Read MoreNiger had refused to refuel plane, State Department negotiated
“Just pulled up from the runway. Super emotional.” – Pastor Steve Miner of Cornerstone Christian Center
“They have passed the borders and are three-and-a-half hours out of Paris.” – Logan Heyer, Principal, Cornerstone Christian School
By Allen D. Payton
A team of 11 missionaries from Antioch’s Cornerstone Christian Center and School were stranded in the West African country of Niger, following a military coup, last week. They were supposed to fly back last Friday, July 28 and be home by Saturday. But they were not permitted as the borders had all been closed. (See related article)
According to Ron Eckstein, spokesman for U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein’s Office in Washington, D.C. “the 11 individuals are on a flight to France. We were told by the State Department. It departed about 11 AM Pacific Time. Our office has been working on it since Tuesday, August 1.”
“I was not expecting such a positive resolution. But good news,” he added.
A post on Corrnerstone Christian School’s Facebook page at 11 a.m. Friday reads, “On behalf of Cornerstone Christian Center and Cornerstone Christian School we are so incredibly grateful to be able to announce that our Niger Mission team is safely on their way home. We would like to thank the offices of Senator Feinstein and Congressman Garamendi for their consistent support and vital information over these trying days. We are so thankful for the help of the State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Niger. We would also like to recognize the effort of KTVU FOX 2, KRON 4 and the Antioch Herald for their assistance in spreading awareness of this serious situation and their care and attention for our family members back home. The professionalism and concern that was demonstrated for this situation by our local media was truly amazing. Last, and most importantly, we would like to thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for his continuous protection and care for our team while they were serving in Niger.
Our focus now turns solely to the people of Niger and our thoughts and prayers will be directed for peace in that nation and that democracy will continue to be pursued so that the nation of Niger can be free. Thank you for all your prayers and support during this challenging time. The people of Cornerstone are what make this place one of a kind and I am personally grateful to be a part of such a special place. Our team landed in Niger 16 days ago with the goal of making much of the name of Jesus and we return knowing that His name was high and lifted up.”
School Principal Says Niger Was Not Going to Refuel the Plane
When reached for more details at 12:15 p.m., school principal Logan Heyer, whose wife, Holly and daughter, Madison are among the 11, exclaimed, “They have passed the borders and are three-and-a-half hours out of Paris.”
“They got to the airport about 2 AM our time, which was 10 AM their time and sat there for about an hour but Niger was refusing to refuel the plane,” he shared. “So, I got a hold of Senator Feinstein’s office and they said they had been in contact with the State Department who were already negotiating with whoever is in charge of Niger, at this point.”
“I got a Whatsapp from Holly saying, ‘we’re on the plane. We don’t know where we’re going,’” Heyer stated. “Then a few minutes later she shared ‘it looks like we have enough fuel to get to France.’”
“Then we got the photos from them in the airport and one of Holly and Madison in the plane,” he continued. “Then I got a Whatsapp message from Pastor Steve that read, ‘just pulled up from the runway. Super emotional.’”
Asked if they expect to be back in Antioch tomorrow Heyer said, “She didn’t even have time to tell me the rest of it. She just knew they were going to Paris. They’re expected to arrive in about three hours.”
“Senator Feinstein’s and Congressman Garamendi’s office have been very helpful. They’re everything you could hope for in a representative. I was proud to be an American, today,” he added.
Read MoreLocal couple provides $100K Matching Challenge to help Save Mount Diablo protect Krane Pond Property
Save Mount Diablo must raise $500K by October 25, 2023 to purchase 6.69-acre parcel, part of the “The Missing Mile”
By Karen Ferriere, Development Director, Save Mount Diablo
CLAYTON, CA—A local couple, Dave and Dana Dornsife, have provided a $100,000 matching challenge to help Save Mount Diablo protect the Krane Pond property which contains one of the largest ponds on the north side of Mount Diablo, which is critical for the area’s wildlife, and is contiguous with Mount Diablo State Park and located within the “Missing Mile.” Dave and Dana Dornsife have offered to match gifts up to $100,000 for the purchase and protection of the Krane Pond land for which Save Mount Diablo must raise $500,000 by October 25, 2023.
On October 25, 2022, Save Mount Diablo purchased an Option Agreement for $50,000 in option payments that gave the non-profit land conservation organization one year to raise $500,000 to cover all the costs to purchase the Krane Pond property and permanently protect it. To date, Save Mount Diablo has raised $279,000 for the project.
The Krane Pond property, a 6.69-acre parcel, is directly adjacent to Clayton and Mount Diablo State Park. The property is part of the “Missing Mile,” a square mile of largely privately owned open space land on the slopes of North Peak and Save Mount Diablo’s fourth acquisition project there. The Krane Pond property has been a priority for protection since Save Mount Diablo was founded in 1971. The land includes a large spring-fed pond that is very important for wildlife. In addition, an on-site building pad, neighboring subdivision, and fragmented ranchette landscape nearby all indicate what might take place if the property isn’t protected.
“On behalf of Save Mount Diablo and all who cherish Mount Diablo’s natural areas and flora and fauna, I extend heartfelt thanks to Dave and Dana Dornsife for their $100,000 matching challenge to help us protect the Krane Pond property before time runs out. Dave and Dana have been important Save Mount Diablo supporters for many years, and we are grateful for their generosity, leadership, and long-term vision,” said Ted Clement, Save Mount Diablo Executive Director.
The Missing Mile is one of Save Mount Diablo’s high priority land acquisition areas. This area is roughly a square mile made up of numerous privately owned open space acres that have not yet been conserved or developed. The Missing Mile is on the slopes of Mount Diablo itself, and the area is contiguous with important conservation lands like Mount Diablo State Park.
Over time, Save Mount Diablo has successfully done multiple land acquisition projects in the Missing Mile: the organization successfully acquired a perpetual conservation easement on almost 154 acres of the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association land last year; in 2016 Save Mount Diablo got about 88 acres of North Peak Ranch under an agreement that will allow the organization to acquire that land in fee simple title in 2026 after making annual payments; and in 2006 Save Mount Diablo acquired the fee simple title to the 17.62-acre Young Canyon property.
In 1978, Walter and Roseann Krane purchased 6.69 acres of land on the outskirts of Clayton bordered by Mount Diablo State Park and the meridian on the west side, Mount Diablo Creek on the north side, and property held by ranchers to the east. The parcel is accessed by a little bridge that crosses over Mount Diablo Creek. The Krane’s originally had plans to build a house for themselves and their two boys on the mountainside lot, which has grand views and great oaks, and back then had a 25-foot-deep lake. It’s become shallower over the years.
“Instead of building a house,” said Roseann Krane, “we decided to preserve the land. Walt loved the outdoors and our family camped and fished all over California. Walt adored our boys and was an Assistant Scoutmaster for 11 years. He bought 200 bass and stocked the lake and helped the kids build a dock. We spent time with Indian Guides, Boy Scouts, soccer, and many friends picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, and horseback riding at the site. Wildlife we observed visiting the property included many deer, bucks, songbirds, ducks, ground squirrels, rattlesnakes, and a great blue heron.
“We have been long-time supporters of Save Mount Diablo. When Walt retired in 2000, he became a professional artist and donated his oil paintings to Save Mount Diablo’s Moonlight on the Mountain fundraiser.
“Last May 2021, Walt passed away from leukemia. I thought that the best way to honor Walt’s memory and love of the outdoors, was having our open space preserved by Save Mount Diablo, and eventually be part of the state park system.”
The Krane Pond property is part of North Peak’s Young Canyon and is bordered by a small spur ridge. Its ecological significance eclipses its size. The property includes one of the largest ponds on the north side of Mount Diablo and is critically important for Mount Diablo’s wildlife. It can help sustain a multitude of species from ground squirrels to mountain lions and even rarer endangered species such as California red-legged frogs and Alameda whipsnakes.
Development has carved its way into Diablo’s foothills below the property’s border. Krane was threatened by Clayton’s Marsh Creek Specific Plan 30 years ago while a neighboring parcel was developed into the Oakwood Estates subdivision. Save Mount Diablo helped shrink the specific plan, and the county and Clayton’s Urban Limit Lines gained strength over the years. Krane is adjacent to the Clayton city limits but just outside the Urban Limit Line.
Had developers acquired this property, they would have graded the ridge and developed much of the acreage. Protecting this property halts development in its tracks, saving more of Mount Diablo’s open space.
Beginning in 1971 SMD’s co-founder, botanist Mary Bowerman, began creating acquisition priority lists based on her decades of research on the mountain. The Missing Mile properties, including Krane, were high on the list.
During the fundraising period for the $500,000, Save Mount Diablo will survey the property boundaries, which will be necessary for work on property fencing and dam repair. If fundraising is successful, initial stewardship will include fence repair and maintenance of the pond’s earthen dam.
Save Mount Diablo
Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited, nonprofit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, watersheds, and connection to the Diablo Range through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.
Read MoreDeadline August 31st
By Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office
We are excited to announce that applications are now open for our Fall 2023 Citizens Academy! The Citizens Academy is a comprehensive six-week course designed to provide participants with a hands-on learning experience and foster a deeper understanding of the vital role played by the Office of the Sheriff in our community.
Classes will be held every Wednesday evening, starting on September 13th and ending on October 18th. We’ve also planned a Saturday day class on September 30th.
To apply, simply visit cocosheriff.org and navigate to the Community Services/Crime Prevention Unit section. Once you’ve completed the application form, kindly submit it via email to csu@so.cccounty.us. Remember, the deadline for applications is August 31st. Don’t miss out!
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Gets one year in county jail for Dec. 2021 incident
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
On August 1st, 2023, a Benicia man was sentenced in Contra Costa Superior Court in Martinez for several child exploitation crimes.
The Honorable Mary Ann O’Malley remanded into custody 34-year-old William Michael Gogas (DOB 3/13/89). He will serve one year in county jail and be required to register as a lifetime sex offender for his offenses.
After a one-week jury trial in May 2023, a Contra Costa County jury convicted Gogas of arranging to meet a minor for sex and unlawfully communicating with a minor. At the trial, evidence was presented that demonstrated — on or about December 9, 2021 — Gogas knowingly engaged in sexually explicit text messages with a person he believed to be a 13-year-old boy — but was an undercover detective with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office.
The evidence further established Gogas arranged to meet the minor at a location in Martinez to engage in illegal sex acts. When Gogas arrived at the meeting location, he was taken into custody by members of the Contra Costa County Safe Streets Task Force and charged in a criminal complaint on December 13, 2021.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Chris Sansoe and investigated by the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Detectives and investigators from the Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Brentwood, Pittsburg, San Ramon, Danville, Oakley, and Moraga Police Departments, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, United States Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and Inspectors from the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office participate on the task force.
According to localcrimenews.com, Gogas was also arrested in 2015 by the Marin County Sheriff for disorderly conduct: prostitution.
Parents are encouraged to discuss online safety with their children, and can visit the website kidsmartz.org, commonsensemedia.org or the District Attorney’s website for further information.
Case No. 01001977768 | The People of the State of California v. Gogas, William Michael
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreRolex with GPS chip helped police arrest, charge suspects, four with history of arrests
The Office of the United States Attorney has charged five defendants—Sunia Mafileo Faavesi, Ryan Kentrell Montgomery, Paul Christopher Tonga, John Ioane Tupou, and Kyle Vehikite—with conspiracy to commit robbery affecting interstate commerce for their roles in the St. Patrick’s Day March 17, 2023, robbery of Heller Jewelers in San Ramon, Calif., announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani. All the defendants except Tupou made their initial federal court appearance on July 27 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Alex G. Tse to face the charges. Tupou remains at large.
According to a federal criminal complaint, filed July 21, 2023, and unsealed at the initial appearance, Faavesi, 30, Montgomery, 35, Tonga, 33, Tupou, 30, and Vehikite, 34, planned and executed the armed heist, which involved at least eleven individuals, some armed, taking approximately $1.1 million in stolen watches and jewelry from the family-owned San Ramon jewelry store. The complaint alleges that while some of the participants were inside the store or immediately outside it during the armed robbery, others acted as lookouts and get-away drivers of at least four waiting vehicles. The robbery took place at a bustling mall in San Ramon in the middle of the afternoon and resulted in multiple bystanders, including children, fleeing the masked and armed robbers.
The complaint affidavit provides details regarding how the defendants originally cased the location a week prior to the robbery and then returned on March 17, 2023, with co-conspirators to execute the robbery. The complaint alleges investigators were able to identify one of the defendants by evaluating GPS information emitted from a stolen Rolex watch. Law enforcement investigators thereafter conducted a covert investigation that ultimately enabled them to identify each of the five defendants and to piece together the movements of the defendants on the day of the robbery.
Faavesi, Montgomery, Tonga, and Vehikite all were arrested on July 26, 2023. The government has filed a motion asking that they be detained pretrial. Defendants’ next scheduled appearances are on August 1, 2023, and August 4, 2023, for their respective detention hearings.
A complaint merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum sentence of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000. As part of any sentence, the court also may order defendants to pay restitution, if appropriate, and to serve an additional period of supervised release to begin after a prison term. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alethea M. Sargent is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Kay Konopaske. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the San Ramon Police Department and the ATF, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the IRS, and Bureau of Customs and Border Protection.
According to localcrimenews.com, Faavesi has a history of arrests dating back to 2016, four times for burglary and once for robbery by multiple agencies. Tonga of San Mateo also has an arrest record dating to 2015 including for multiple DUI’s and receiving stolen property – motor vehicle. Topou of Oakland has a history of arrests also dating to 2015 including for burglary, robbery, battery with serious bodily injury and gun charges. Vehikite of San Ramon has at least two previous arrests in 2021 including for drug and ammunition charges.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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