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.

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.

Concord Police Department to hold DUI Checkpoint June 19, 2026

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By Provisional Sgt. Lee Lawrence, Concord Police Department

Concord, Calif. – Concord Police Department will hold a DUI Checkpoint June 19, 2026, from 7:00 P.M. to 3:00 A.M. The DUI Checkpoint will occur on westbound Willow Pass Road between Mount Diablo Street and Galindo Street.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on the history of DUI crashes and arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired.

During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

The Concord Police Department is committed to keeping the traveling public safe.

“The safety of our community is and always will be our mission,” Lt. Scott Smith said. “We are looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is dangerous and puts others on the road at risk.”

Concord Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or “operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Con Fire crews clean up hazardous materials leak in Concord

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Photos: Con Fire

By Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

On Monday, June 15, 2026, shortly before 11:40 a.m., Contra Costa Fire responded to a hazardous materials alarm at a facility in Concord. Facility personnel reported a fluorine leak alarm had activated inside the building, prompting an immediate evacuation of employees.

The first arriving crews confirmed the building was evacuated, secured the area and initiated hazardous materials operations.

Firefighters developed an entry plan and assembled a hazardous materials team to investigate the source of the leak. Firefighters entered the building wearing specialized protective equipment and conducted air monitoring throughout the facility. Operations were conducted to isolate the leak and safely shut down the affected valve.

Following mitigation efforts, a second entry team conducted additional monitoring throughout the building. Air monitoring confirmed all readings had returned to zero, indicating the leak had been successfully controlled and the atmosphere was safe.

As part of the operation, firefighters completed decontamination procedures before exiting the incident. Decon is the process of removing or neutralizing potentially hazardous substances from personnel and equipment before they leave the operational area. Crews utilized a Tiger Paw decontamination system and paper indicator testing to verify that no contamination remained on personnel or equipment.

No injuries were reported.

See more photos, here.

Suspect in fatal Richmond shooting arrested in Concord

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By Richmond Police Department

The Richmond Police Department has arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred on May 29, 2026, in the 200 block of West Nevin Avenue.

At approximately 6:27 p.m., officers responded to reports of shots fired and located an adult victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by responding officers, the victim tragically succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

Through rapid investigative work, officers quickly identified a possible suspect and associated vehicle. Investigators utilized Flock Safety Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology to track the suspect vehicle as it traveled from Richmond into Concord.

With the assistance of the Concord Police Department, the suspect was located and taken into custody without incident later that evening. The suspect has been booked on charges of murder (PC 187).

The Richmond Police Department is grateful for the assistance provided by the Concord Police Department and is pleased that Flock ALPR technology served as a critical investigative tool, helping investigators identify and arrest a homicide suspect within approximately eight hours of the shooting.

This case highlights the value of technology, strong investigative work, and regional law enforcement partnerships in helping bring violent offenders into custody quickly.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances and motive surrounding this incident.

We extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Richmond Police Department Investigations Bureau at (510) 621-1288.

The suspect’s name, age and other details have been requested. Please check back later for any updates.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Cal State East Bay President Cathy Sandeen to step down

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CSU East Bay President Cathy Sandeen. Photo: Cal State East Bay

CSU Chancellor Mildred García issues statement

By Amy Bentley-Smith & Warren Robak, Media Relations & Public Affairs, The California State University

On May 20, 2026, California State University, East Bay President Cathy Sandeen announced that she will step down from the presidency at the end of the 2026 calendar year. Sandeen is the university’s sixth president and has served in the role since 2021.

In her announcement, Sandeen wrote:

“Dear Cal State East Bay community, friends and supporters,

The end of this calendar year will mark my sixth year serving as your president, and my thirteenth year overall as a university president or chancellor. Those years have been filled with unforgettable moments, extraordinary people, and the profound privilege of serving students whose determination and dreams inspire me every day.

“As we reflect on the hope, pride, and joy that filled our recent commencement ceremonies, I want to share some deeply personal news with you. There is no easy way to say this because this community has meant so much to me, but after a great deal of reflection and consideration, I have made the decision to step down as president of Cal State East Bay at the end of 2026. This was not a decision I arrived at lightly.

“I joined Cal State East Bay in January 2021, in the depths of the Covid-19 pandemic, before vaccines were widely available. You welcomed me into this community (on Zoom, mostly!) and together we emerged from the pandemic united in our mission to serve local East Bay students. Over the years we have worked hard to adjust to declining enrollments and reduced state budget allocations all the while maintaining and even improving student success metrics, like graduation and retention rates and achieving the Seal of Excelencia.

“We brought the campus back to life while also retaining flexible learning options through online and hybrid programs. We enhanced the sense of belonging for all students through our various student success and support units. We opened two new buildings: the impressive CORE Library and the fully donor-funded Braddock Center. We created a College of Health. Our faculty developed new degrees and refined existing programs. The new BS in Civil Engineering and the online MS in Speech-Language Pathology, among others, come to mind.

“Our marketing teams elevated the awareness and reputation of the university and we all welcomed Perry the Peregrine Falcon as our new mascot. We built stronger partnerships with our surrounding community. The many new MOUs with our local school districts are a shining example. Enrollments have improved. Spirits have improved. We are on steady footing because at Cal State East Bay, when confronted by challenges, we take action.

“This clarity and focus, as reflected in our Future Directions strategic plan, caught the attention of MacKenzie Scott’s foundation culminating in a $50 million gift to our Educational Foundation last November.

“Between now and the end of December, our work will continue and I remain fully committed to building on current progress. We will check in on our Future Direction priorities as well as our planning for the upcoming WSCUC special visit. We will continue our efforts to increase enrollments and generate new non-state, non-tuition revenue streams. We will launch our brand new Staff Council, expanding shared governance to staff members. I am confident in our ability to maintain our positive momentum before “passing the baton” to the next leader.

“As a first-generation college graduate, born and raised in the East Bay—and a double CSU alum—it has been the honor of a lifetime to bring the experience I gained throughout my career right back home where I got my start. In my Commencement remarks this weekend, I shared what has been deeply true throughout my time here: it has been an extraordinary privilege to be part of our students’ educational journeys. Watching them grow, persevere, and achieve their dreams has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. It has also been a true gift to work alongside so many talented, compassionate, and dedicated people who care so deeply about our mission and each other. Together, we have changed lives in ways that ripple far beyond our campus.

“I look forward to working with purpose and determination from now until the end of December, because what we do matters immensely. No one creates life-changing opportunities for students, families, communities, and our region the way we do. This place will always hold a special place in my heart—I am Pioneer for life.

“With deepest gratitude to all of you,

Cathy Sandeen

President

——–

In response, CSU Chancellor Mildred García issued the following statement:

“Since joining Cal State East Bay in January 2021, President Sandeen has led with clarity, resilience and purpose, while positioning the university for long-term growth, regional impact and deeper community connection.

“Under her leadership, Cal State East Bay has strengthened enrollment, elevated its brand identity, revitalized campus pride and advanced a clearer sense of the university’s distinctive role in the East Bay region and beyond. President Sandeen has also strengthened the university’s academic mission and alignment with regional workforce needs through the creation of new academic programs and the expansion of pathways that prepare students for high-demand fields.

“During her tenure, the university also opened two new buildings and has seen consistent growth in sponsored programs and private giving, culminating in the landmark $50 million gift from MacKenzie Scott in November 2025 – one of the largest in CSU history.

“Guided by a deep commitment to student success, particularly those who are the first in their families to attend college, President Sandeen’s proactive and thoughtful engagement has fostered a more inclusive and equitable campus community and expanded meaningful connections across the East Bay region. This includes her instrumental role in re-energizing collaboration with the city of Hayward to foster a college-going culture in marginalized communities.

“President Sandeen will leave Cal State East Bay stronger, more connected to its community and better positioned for the future. On behalf of the entire California State University, I offer my deepest gratitude for her partnership, her integrity and her unwavering commitment to student success.”

The CSU will soon launch a national search for Sandeen’s successor. Under university policy, the chair of the CSU Board of Trustees and the chancellor will select a committee comprised of campus and community stakeholders to lead the search.

About Cal State East Bay

Cal State East Bay serves the East Bay through its Hayward campus and Concord center. The university was originally named the State College for Alameda County when it was officially established by the California State Assembly in 1957. The first academic year began in 1959. The university expanded its reach to Contra Costa County in 1992, opening a branch in Concord. The university changed its name to California State University, East Bay in 2005 to reflect its new regional service to Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

For nearly 66 years, Cal State East Bay has served the Bay Area as part of the California State University system, providing access to higher education for a diverse student body and advancing regional engagement through its academic programs and leadership. The university is a federally designated Asian American, Native American, Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI) and Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).  Cal State East Bay has been recognized from everything from its diversity and social mobility potential to its business school and online education. For more information visit www.csueastbay.edu.

About the California State University

The California State University is the nation’s largest four-year public​ ​university system, providing transformational opportunities for upward mobility to more than 470,000 students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. More than half of CSU students are from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, and more than one-quarter of undergraduates are first-generation college students. Because the CSU’s 22 universities* provide a high-quality education at an incredible value, they are rated among the best in the nation for promoting social mobility in national college rankings from U.S. News & World Report, the Wall Street Journal and Washington Monthly. The CSU powers California and the nation, sending more than 123,000 career-ready graduates into the workforce each year. In fact, one in every 20 Americans holding a college degree earned it at the CSU. Connect with and learn more about the CSU in the CSU newsroom.

*Transition to 22 universities in progress (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Maritime integrating)—​official fall 2026​.​

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

City of Concord offers first time homebuyer subsidy program

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Up to $60,000 for downpayment; Introductory Workshop May 19th

By Walter Zhovreboff, Administrative Director, Bay Area Affordable Homeownership Alliance, City of Concord Program Administrator

Tuesday May 19, 2026 6PM to 7:30PM

The City of Concord, along with the Bay Area Affordable Homeownership Alliance (BAAHA) and A-1 Housing Community Services (A-1 CHS), is hosting a workshop to introduce Concord’s First Time Home Buyer program. The virtual zoom workshop will be held from 6:00pm to 7:30pm on Tuesday May 19, 2026.

Concord’s First Time Home Buyer Program (FTHB) assists low- to moderate-income first-time homebuyers with purchasing a home in Concord. The FTHB loan does not charge an interest rate or require monthly payments. The loan must be repaid in full within 15 years, at which point the City receives the original principal amount plus a share of the home’s increased value.

The FTHB program provides the following valuable resources.

  • Down Payment Assistance Funds – Eligible low- to moderate-income first-time homebuyers could receive up to $60,000 through the City FTHB; and up to an additional $40,000 provided through other organizations. FTHB funds can either increase the purchase power and/or decrease the cost of ownership for eligible first-time homebuyers. FTHB funds are strictly limited to purchasing homes within Concord city limits.
  • Homebuyer Education and Counseling – A-1 CHS, a HUD approved non-profit homebuyer education and counseling organization, will be delivering free homebuyer education and counseling to interested applicants. Education and counseling assists homebuyers with establishing a stronger understanding of the requirements, steps, and capacity for households to purchase a home. FTHB homebuyers must secure a HUD approved education and counseling certificate of completion in order to secure Concord’s FTHB funds and other partnering funding sources.

The FTHB introductory workshop will provide additional details on:

  • FTHB Funds – directed towards assisting low- to moderate-income first-time homebuyers to purchase a home in Concord.
  • FTHB Participation Guidelines – an overview of Program requirements and guidelines to receive access to FTHB resources and funds.
  • Next Steps – for eligible first-time homebuyers to take in order to access FTHB’s beneficial homebuyer resources.

Workshop presenters will include:

  • City of Concord – housing staff will introduce the FTHB program.
  • Bay Area Affordable Homeownership Alliance (BAAHA) – the City’s contracted FTHB administrator will provide additional information on FTHB and the steps required to become an FTHB participant.
  • A-1 Community Housing Services – a representative will provide information on HUD approved required FTHB homebuyer education; and on financial and homebuyer counseling available for eligible Concord residents and workforce.

A reservation is required to attend the free FTHB Informational Virtual Zoom workshop. To make a reservation please go to BAAHA’s FTHB workshop webpage at https://www.myhomegateway.org/concord-fthb-introworkshop.html. Reservations must be submitted by no later than 7:00PM Monday May 18, 2026.

About BAAHA

The Bay Area Affordable Homeownership Alliance, Inc., or BAAHA, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that was formed as the successor organization of a public joint powers authority, the East Bay Delta Housing & Finance Agency (AKA the Bay Area HomeBuyer Agency). BAAHA’s mission is to promote homeownership for low to moderate income and workforce homebuyers in the San Francisco Bay Area region. We will accomplish our mission by: Supporting the preservation of affordable homeownership in the community Expanding affordable homeownership opportunities Structuring a comprehensive, informational and educational resource and service clearinghouse