Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

SFPD’s Violence Reduction Team releases video of multiple arrests in Contra Costa

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Items were seen being tossed from the second suspect vehicle believed to be evidence from the robbery before being stopped. Video screenshots. Source: SFPD

Following gang-related armed jewelry store robbery

By San Francisco Police Department

San Francisco, CA — An investigation by the San Francisco Police Department’s Violence Reduction Team (VRT) into a series of gang-related homicides led to the arrest of multiple suspects and the recovery of firearms after investigators coordinated with regional law enforcement agencies following an alleged armed jewelry store robbery in Contra Costa County.

During June 2026, VRT investigators were conducting surveillance as part of an ongoing investigation into multiple gang-related homicides and efforts to prevent additional acts of violence. During the investigation, officers observed several armed individuals exit a vehicle in San Francisco carrying firearms, including assault-style rifles. Based on their observations, investigators believed the group was preparing to target rival gang members. Detectives continued monitoring the suspects and identified several individuals known to investigators.

On June 28, 2026, investigators observed the group travel to Concord, where they allegedly committed an armed jewelry store robbery inside the Sunvalley mall. As previously reported, according to Concord Police, “Officers arrived on scene and learned that at least four suspects had smashed display cases at the Banter jewelry kiosk and pepper sprayed a patron during the commission of the robbery. The suspects fled the area prior to officers’ arrival.”

Following the robbery, the suspects switched vehicles in an apparent attempt to evade law enforcement. Investigators coordinated a regional enforcement operation to safely apprehend those involved.

The suspect in Richmond fled on foot but was quickly apprehended. Video screenshot. Source: SFPD

In Richmond, California, during the surveillance, one suspect was seen exiting a vehicle and entered a second SUV. When officers attempted to detain him, he fled on foot before being quickly taken into custody. A subsequent search of the SUV resulted in the recovery of a handgun, an assault-style rifle, ammunition, and additional evidence believed to be connected to the investigation.

Meanwhile, investigators continued tracking a second vehicle with the assistance of law enforcement drones. Officers observed occupants allegedly discarding items from the vehicle that investigators believe were evidence from the robbery. The vehicle was ultimately stopped, and officers conducted a felony stop, safely taking the occupants into custody without further incident.

In total, multiple suspects were arrested during the coordinated operation.

As the investigation continued, detectives served search warrants at residences in Richmond and Oakland associated with the suspects, recovering additional evidence.

An assault-style weapon discovered during searches of one of the homes following the arrests. Video screenshot. Source: SFPD

The case was presented to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration on the following arrested individuals, who were charged:

  • Cameron Haynes, 21-year-old, San Francsico
  • Terry Franklin, 29-year-old, San Francisco / Daly City
  • Lavar Kent, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Eric Howard, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Teric Howard, 20-year-old, San Francisco

Concord Police posted on their Facebook page, “Once again, the Concord Police Department remains committed to partnering with our allied law enforcement agencies to bring those who come into our community and commit crime to justice. We are thankful for SFPD’s partnership!”

See related video.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the San Francisco Police Department at 415-575-4444 or submit tips anonymously through the SFPD Tip Line at 1-415-575-4444 or by texting TIP411 and beginning the message with “SFPD.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Two juveniles arrested for June robbery inside Sun Valley mall near Macy’s

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By Concord Police Department

As previously reported, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at approximately 3:12 p.m., Concord Police Department officers responded to a report of a robbery at Sunvalley Shopping Center.

The incident occurred inside the mall near Macy’s Women’s store. Two masked male suspects approached the victim and grabbed his necklaces. A physical struggle occurred, and the suspects fled from the mall with the victim’s necklaces.

The victim sustained minor injuries as a result of the confrontation.

July 2, 2026 – Two suspects were identified in this case and arrested by the Concord Police Department. The suspects were juveniles and as such their names are not being released at this time.

The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office filed felony charges against the two juveniles.

This incident is not related to the recent press release regarding the jewelry store robbery inside Sun Valley mall on June 28.

Five suspects from San Francisco arrested for San Valley mall jewelry store robbery

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Stolen jewelry and price tags recovered from suspects. Photos: Concord PD

By Concord Police Department

On June 28, 2026, at approximately 1:24 PM, the Concord Police Department Communications Center received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a robbery in progress at the Sun Valley Mall.

Officers arrived on scene and learned that at least four suspects had smashed display cases at the Banter jewelry kiosk and pepper sprayed a patron during the commission of the robbery.

The suspects fled the area prior to officers’ arrival.

Through investigative efforts and coordination with the San Francisco Police Department, the suspects were quickly identified and ultimately located in the City of Richmond. All five suspects were taken into custody on charges related to the robbery, as well as various additional offenses. Stolen jewelry from the business was recovered. Multiple firearms were located as well.

The swift identification and arrest of the suspects highlights the strong partnership between the Concord Police Department and the San Francisco Police Department. Continued collaboration and real-time intelligence sharing between agencies remain critical in investigating and disrupting organized retail crime throughout the Bay Area.

This case was jointly investigated by the San Francisco Police Department and the Concord Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit. The case was presented to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration on the following arrested individuals, who were charged:

  • Cameron Haynes, 21-year-old, San Francsico
  • Terry Franklin, 29-year-old, San Francisco / Daly City
  • Lavar Kent, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Eric Howard, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Teric Howard, 20-year-old, San Francisco

No further information is being released at this time.

This robbery is in addition to the robbery on June 23rd inside the mall near Macy’s Women’s store.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

City of Martinez launches “GoMartinez” mobile app for fast, easy connection to services

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By Eve Kearney, Manager City Manager’s Office

Martinez, CA — The City of Martinez is excited to announce the launch of GoMartinez, a new mobile app designed to help residents stay connected, submit non‑emergency service requests, and access important City information all in one convenient place.

GoMartinez makes it simple for community members to report non‑urgent issues they see around town, whether it’s a damaged sign, pothole, or other maintenance need. Residents can snap a photo and send it directly to the City through the app, making the reporting process faster, easier, and more efficient.

“Our goal with GoMartinez is to give residents a quick and easy way to reach us,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “Whether you’re sharing a service request or exploring upcoming community events, we want this app to be another bridge between City Hall and our residents.”

In addition to service requests, GoMartinez offers:

  • Direct link to City website
  • Easy access to City Council information
  • Link for water bill payment
  • Events calendar link

Over time, the City will continue expanding GoMartinez with additional links, features, and services so residents can access even more resources right from their phones.

All Martinez residents are invited to download and start using GoMartinez beginning July 6, 2026. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices: simply search “GoMartinez” in your device’s App Store/Google Play store and download. Create an account to submit and track service tickets; tickets can be submitted anonymously.
As Martinez celebrates its 150th year, the City remains committed to offering tools that make it easier than ever for residents to engage with their local government, and looks forward to the positive impact GoMartinez will have in meeting the evolving needs of our residents and helping us provide high-quality service to our community.
Download the app at: https://app.govoutreach.com/martinezcityca/public/crm/topics.

City of Martinez to conduct virtual wildfire evacuation drill July 11

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By Eve Kearney, Martinez City Manager’s Office

The City of Martinez is continuing to take proactive steps to enhance community safety by hosting a virtual evacuation drill, on July 11, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. This exercise will simulate the evacuation and response to a wildfire emergency.

A virtual evacuation drill is an ideal opportunity for residents to review and practice their personal and family safety plan in the event of an evacuation and ensure they are registered to receive emergency alerts.
The emergency scenario for the Unified Command exercise will be a wildland fire burning into the urban interface on the west edge of the City, north of SR-4. The virtual evacuation and emergency scenario will focus on five evacuation zones: MAR-001, MAR-002, and MAR-003.  These zones were chosen due to actual wildfire risk and wildland-urban interface (WUI).

What to Expect During the Drill

The drill will begin at 9:00 am. Live mock messages will be sent to all registered Martinez Alerts users. Messages will be clearly marked as drill-related. Residents in the three evacuation zones will receive additional messages during the drill.

There are up to three ways residents can participate in the Virtual Evacuation Drill.

  1. Ensure expected mock messaging from Martinez Alerts is received.
  2. Residents may practice preparing to evacuate from their residence, including a list of suggestions on our website.
  3. Residents may safely leave their residence and use their identified evacuation route.

The Importance of Evacuation Drills

The City as a whole benefits from this drill, extending beyond the target neighborhoods. It serves as an instructive example for emergency response across the entire City and offers an educational and preparation opportunity for all residents. Additionally, Martinez’s first responders will use this

Drill to conduct a Unified Command exercise, practicing multi‑agency coordination as well as response and management of an emergency scenario.

For more information, visit the evacuation drill webpage at cityofmartinez.org/july11.

For day-of messaging options during the exercise, please sign up for the Martinez Alerts e-notification system at www.martinezalerts.com.

Walnut Creek to celebrate America’s 250th, California’s 175th with patriotic concert July 4th

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By City of Walnut Creek

Spend Independence Day with the Walnut Creek Concert Band!

Join the Walnut Creek Concert Band at Civic Park on Saturday, July 4, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. for a free evening of patriotic music as we celebrate Independence Day.

This year’s concert is also a wonderful way to commemorate two historic milestones: the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 175th anniversary of California.

Lawn chairs and blankets are recommended. Bring your family, pack a picnic and enjoy this beloved community tradition before the evening’s festivities.

Pleasant Hill to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day, 50th Anniversary of July 4th Commission

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With fun run, parade, live music and fireworks show

By & Pleasant Hill Police Department

This coming weekend, Pleasant Hill will be celebrating the Fourth of July with our annual fun run, parade and fireworks display.

We invite you to participate in our Firecracker 5K Race or Kids 100-yard dash from 7:45-9:00am. Prizes for the top finishers. National Anthem sung by Jennifer Bennett. First up is the 100-Yard Dash followed by the 5K Race. A portion of your registration goes directly to Pleasant Hill sc…

Come to Downtown Pleasant Hill and see the World-Famous Pleasant Hill Parade presented by the Pleasant Hill Coin & Jewelry Exchange. 9:30am-10:30am

After the parade ends, walk over to Pleasant Hill Park on Gregory Lane and join us for the Party in the Park with live music by Inner State 80’s, food by Back 40 Texas BBQ and Kettle Corn, and fun games for the kids! 10:30am-1:30pm

Then enjoy the best fireworks show in the East Bay with a viewing party at College Park High School. There will be music, food and dessert trucks on site. Access is $4 per person (suggested donation). 6:30pm – 10pm

The Pleasant Hill 4th of July Commission works hard to put together the largest single-day event in the city. The commission is not part of the City of Pleasant Hill and is an all-volunteer non-profit organization that was formed in 1976 to celebrate United States Bicentennial. This year we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For more information visit Pleasant Hill 4th of July or email pleasanthilljuly4@gmail.com.

Police Announce Road Closures

We know how much our community looks forward to these celebrations, and over the next several days, the Pleasant Hill Police Department will be sharing information about these community events. Today, let’s talk about the Fireworks display, which takes begins at 9:15pm on the night of Saturday, July 4th, 2026, in the area of College Park High School.

  • Expect delays along Taylor Blvd between Contra Costa Blvd. and Morello Avenue.
  • Road closures will occur along Norse Drive, Viking Drive and Ruth Drive.
  • Heavy traffic around Diablo Valley College and College Park High School.
  • NO PARKING OR STOPPING ON TAYLOR BOULEVARD

Road closures/detours can be expected at least 30 minutes prior to and 30 minutes after the display. The fireworks display will last approximately 30 minutes. Spectators and vehicles will be withheld from entering the fallout zone immediately following the show until the site has been cleared by the Fire Inspector. We anticipate traffic returning to normal by 11:00pm.

For those planning to come into the area and view the fireworks, we suggest that you strive to come early to secure a parking spot in the surrounding community parking areas. Please be patient (and courteous) while driving, given the road closures, detours and increased vehicle traffic. We want everyone to get a good spot, have a good time, and leave in good spirits.

Check back on our social media platforms for more information, including details about the parade route, road closures and other event details that will help you stay informed about what’s to come this Saturday. Have a great week Pleasant Hill!

Concord to celebrate America’s 250th and California’s 175th birthdays July 4th

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Fun Runs, Pancake Breakfast, Parade, Festival, Food, Live Music & Fireworks

By Concord July 4th

Get ready to celebrate America’s 250th and California’s 175th birthdays with friends and family as Concord comes together for a full day of fun, traditions, live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show! Make plans now to celebrate on Saturday, July 4, 2026.

TODOS SANTOS PLAZA

8:00 AM – Kids Fun Run

8:00 AM – Rotary Pancake Breakfast

8:15 AM – 5K Run and Walk

10:00 AM – Parade through Downtown Concord

  1. DIABLO HIGH SCHOOL

4:00 PM – Festival, Food, Vendors & Family Fun

5:30 PM Live Music with Brooks Lundy

7:30 PM Live Music with 3day Weekend

9:00 PM Fireworks to culminate the party!

A special thank you to our Title Sponsor, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, and all of the sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who help make this beloved tradition possible year after year.

Learn more at www.ConcordJuly4th.com.

Concord man gets 21 months in federal prison for selling counterfeit sports memorabilia

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San Francisco Giants player Willie Mays in 1955 posing for the camera of an Associated Press photographer. Public domain. Source: Wikpedia

After pleading guilty to fraud scheme; claimed bat was used by Willie Mays during 1954 World Series; must pay over $1 million in restitution

By U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of California

OAKLAND – Daniel Damato was sentenced on Monday, June 29, 2026, to 21 months in federal prison for his role in a wire fraud scheme in which he knowingly sold counterfeit sports memorabilia and attempted to obstruct the FBI’s investigation into his criminal conduct. United States District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín handed down the sentence. He faced a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Damato, 40, of Concord, California, was charged by Information on October 20, 2025, with one count of wire fraud. The Information alleged that between 2022 and 2024, Damato, a sports memorabilia dealer, doctored and gave false provenance to valuable items to make them appear as authentic and legitimate sports collectables. Damato then attempted to sell these items to unsuspecting buyers at heavily inflated prices.

The Information specifically described two sports memorabilia items Damato fraudulently marketed and sold—a baseball bat he represented was a 1954 game-used World Series bat and a jersey he asserted was a 1972 game-worn jersey. Damato claimed that the bat was used and the jersey was worn by Willie Mays, described as one of the greatest baseball players who ever lived, according to the Information

As previously reported by the Herald, on December 8, 2025, Damato pled guilty to the wire fraud count charged in the Information. In connection with his plea, Damato admitted that despite his assertions to the contrary, the bat he sold for $100,000 to one victim had not been used in the 1954 World Series by Mays. Rather, Damato admitted that the bat was a “factory error” bat that was an inch shorter than what Mays used during his career. Damato further admitted that he sold other fraudulent items, including a jersey he falsely claimed was worn by Mays that he sold for $50,000 to a second victim. In addition, the Court found that Damato defrauded a third victim in connection with his sports memorabilia scheme, determining that Damato stole over $900,000 from that victim while falsely promising to deliver sports memorabilia.

In addition to his fraudulent conduct, Damato admitted in his plea agreement that after the FBI executed a search warrant on his residence, he contacted at least one potential witness in an attempt to obstruct the government’s investigation.

United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Special Agent in Charge Scott Schelble made the announcement.

In addition to the prison term, Judge Martínez-Olguín sentenced Damato to a three-year period of supervised release and ordered restitution in the amount of $1,068,940. Damato had previously been remanded into custody and will begin serving his sentence immediately.

Assistant United States Attorney Abraham Fine is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Amala James. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Concord residential, vehicle burglaries under investigation

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Photos: Concord PD

By Concord Police Department

The Concord Police Department is actively investigating a series of residential and vehicle burglaries that have occurred throughout our community over the past several weeks. Detectives are actively pursuing investigative leads and working diligently to identify and apprehend those responsible.

As part of this investigation, we are sharing surveillance images of two individuals believed to be involved. In several incidents, the suspects have approached homes during the early morning hours, checking parked vehicles and using garage door openers left inside unlocked vehicles to gain access to garages. Once inside, they have primarily targeted tools and other valuable property.

On multiple incidents, the suspects were captured on surveillance video while armed with handguns outside a garage. Although no confrontations with homeowners have been reported, these images serve as an important reminder to remain vigilant and take simple steps to reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

Help protect your property by:

  • Always lock your vehicles, even when parked in your driveway.
  • Never leave garage door openers, keys, wallets, or other valuables inside your vehicle.
  • Keep your garage door closed and secured, especially overnight.
  • Report suspicious activity immediately to the Concord Police Department.

If you recognize either of the individuals pictured or have surveillance footage or information that may assist investigators, please contact the Concord Police Department at (925) 671-3333.

We appreciate our community’s continued partnership as we work to identify those responsible and prevent additional crimes.