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Fire Prevention Week: Two minutes may be all you have to escape a home fire — the nation’s most frequent disaster

October 8, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Dos minutos puede ser todo lo que tiene para escapar un incendio doméstico, el desastre más frecuente del país

During Fire Prevention Week, practice your escape plan and test your smoke alarms; residents in need can contact the Red Cross to request a free smoke alarm installation

This National Fire Prevention Week, October 9-15, the American Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region urges everyone to practice their two-minute home fire escape plan and test their smoke alarms to stay safe from the nation’s most frequent disaster.

Two minutes is the amount of time that fire experts say you may have to safely escape a home fire before it’s too late. These crises account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year across the U.S. — locally in the Northern California Coastal Region, home fire responses are 18% higher during cold months than warmer times of year.

“As the threat of home fires increases with colder temperatures, Fire Prevention Week serves as an important reminder to prepare now,” said Ana Romero, Regional Preparedness Manager. “Practice your two-minute home fire escape drill and test your smoke alarms monthly to help keep your family safe.”

HOW TO PRACTICE YOUR TWO-MINUTE DRILL

Practice your plan with everyone in your household; also teach children what a smoke alarm sounds like and what to do in an emergency. Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including a printable escape plan and safety tips for cooking and home heating — the leading causes of home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association, which is sponsoring Fire Prevention Week with the theme, “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape.”

Include at least two ways to exit every room in your home in your escape plan.
Select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone knows to meet.
Place smoke alarms on each level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year, if your model requires it.
Check the manufacturer’s date of your smoke alarms. If they’re 10 years or older, they likely need to be replaced because components such batteries can become less reliable. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.
Tailor your escape plan to everyone’s needs in your household. If you or a loved one is deaf or hard of hearing, install strobe light and bed-shaker alarms to help alert you to a fire.

IF YOU NEED HELP

If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Visit us at SoundTheAlarm.org/NorCalCoastal to request an appointment.

Red Cross volunteers and partners perform smoke alarm installations and home fire safety visits wherever possible to ensure our communities are safe.

Here is the full circle story of Burnie Gipson, who lives in Martinez, California. His previous home in San Francisco suffered a fire and the Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteers responded to provide help and care to him and other displaced residents. After moving to Martinez, Burnie reached back out to the Red Cross to set up a free smoke alarm installation in his new home.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVE LIVES

Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign with community partners has saved at least 1,393 lives — including 24 here in the Northern California Coastal Region— by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. Locally, Red Cross volunteers and partners have installed 42,309 alarms and helped make 15,807 households safer. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Durante la Semana de la Prevención de Incendios, practique su plan de escape y pruebe sus detectores de humo; los residentes que lo necesiten pueden ponerse en contacto con la Cruz Roja para solicitar una instalación gratuita de alarma de humo

Esta Semana de la Prevención de Incendios (del 9 al 15 de octubre), la Cruz Roja Americana Región de la Costa Norte de California insta a todos a practicar su plan de dos minutos de evacuación de incendios en el hogar y probar sus alarmas de humo para mantenerse a salvo del desastre más frecuente del país.

Dos minutos es la cantidad de tiempo que los expertos en incendios dicen que puede tener para escapar de forma segura de un incendio doméstico antes de que sea demasiado tarde. Estas crisis representan la mayoría de los más de 60,000 desastres a los que la Cruz Roja responde cada año en todo Estados Unidos. Localmente, las respuestas a los incendios domésticos son un 18% más altas durante los meses de frío que las épocas más cálidas del año.

“A medida que la amenaza de incendios domésticos aumenta con las temperaturas más frías, la Semana de la Prevención de Incendios sirve como un recordatorio importante para prepararse ahora”, dijo Ana Romero, Gerente Regional de Preparación. “Practique su simulacro de escape en caso de incendio en el hogar de dos minutos y pruebe sus alarmas de humo mensualmente para ayudar a mantener a su familia segura”.

CÓMO PRACTICAR SU SIMULACRO DE DOS MINUTOS

Practique su plan con todos en su hogar; también enseñe a los niños cómo suena una alarma de humo y qué hacer en una emergencia. Visite CruzRojaAmericana.org/incendios para obtener más información, incluyendo un plan de escape imprimible y consejos de seguridad para cocinar y calentar el hogar, las principales causas de los incendios domésticos, según la Asociación Nacional de Protección contra Incendios, que patrocina la Semana de la Prevención de Incendios con el tema, “El fuego no espera. Planifica tu escape”.

Incluya al menos dos formas de salir de cada habitación de su casa en su plan de escape.
Seleccione un lugar de reunión a una distancia segura de su casa, como la casa de su vecino o un punto de referencia, como un árbol específico en su patio delantero, donde todos sepan reunirse.
Coloque detectores de humo en cada nivel de su casa, incluidos los dormitorios y las zonas de descanso interiores y exteriores. Pruebe las alarmas mensualmente y cambie las baterías al menos una vez al año, si su modelo lo requiere.
Compruebe la fecha del fabricante de sus detectores de humo. Si tienen 10 años o más, es probable que deban reemplazarse porque componentes como las baterías pueden ser menos confiables. Siga las instrucciones del fabricante de la alarma.
Adapte su plan de escape a las necesidades de todos en su hogar. Si usted o un ser querido es sordo o tiene problemas de audición, instale alarmas de luz estroboscópica y para agitar la cama para ayudar a alertarle de un incendio.

SI NECESITA AYUDA

Si no puede darse el lujo de comprar detectores de humo o no puede instalar uno físicamente, la Cruz Roja puede ayudar. Visite nuestro sitio web ActivaTuAlarma.org para solicitar un turno. Los voluntarios de la Cruz Roja junto con socios locales realizan visitas para instalación de alarmas de humo gratuitas y prevención de incendios en el hogar cada vez que resulta posible.

Esta es la historia de circulo completo de Burnie Gipson, residente de Martinez, California. Su anterior hogar en San Francisco sufrió un incendio y los voluntarios del Equipo de Acción en Desastres de la Cruz Roja asistieron

para ayudar y proveer cuidados a el y a otros residentes desplazados por el fuego. Luego de mudarse a martines, Burnie contacto a la Cruz Roja para instalar una alarma de incendios en su nuevo hogar.

LA CAMPAÑA DE PREVENCIÓN DE INCENDIOS EN EL HOGAR SALVA VIDAS

Desde octubre de 2014, la Campaña de La Cruz Roja contra incendios en el hogar con socios comunitarios ha salvado al menos 1.393 vidas -incluyendo 24 en la Región de la Costa Norte de California- al educar a las familias sobre la seguridad contra incendios, ayudarles a crear planes de escape e instalar alarmas de humo gratuitas en zonas de alto riesgo en todo el país. Localmente, los voluntarios y socios de la Cruz Roja han instalado 42.309 alarmas y han ayudado a hacer 15.807 hogares más seguros. Para saber más sobre la campaña y cómo puede participar, visite CruzRojaAmericana.org/IncendiosDomesticos.

Sobre la Cruz Roja Americana:

La Cruz Roja Americana alberga, alimenta y ofrece Alivio a víctimas de desastres; suministra aproximadamente el 40% de la sangre que necesita el país; enseña habilidades que salvan vidas; distribuye asistencia humanitaria internacional; y brinda apoyo a veteranos, miembros de las fuerzas armadas y sus familias. La Cruz Roja Americana es una organización sin fines de lucro que depende de los voluntarios y de la generosidad del pueblo estadounidense para entregar su misión. Para más información, visite redcross.org o CruzRojaAmericana.org, o visítenos en Twitter en @RedCross.

Brothers found guilty in brutal 2020 Antioch sexual assault, robbery case

October 8, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Kenry Young (left) and Lamar Young. Photos by APD.

Face life sentences

ANTIOCH, CA – On Monday, September 26, 2022, a jury of Kenry Lee Young and Lamar Young’s peers returned with a guilty verdict after a five-week trial. The brothers were convicted of California Penal Code Section 289 (sexual penetration by a foreign object), PC 287 (oral copulation), and two counts of PC 211 (robbery) for the numerous crimes they committed on October 17, 2020. (See related article)

While we regret these crimes took place, we would like to commend the bravery of the victims for coming forward and assisting with the prosecution of these two men. Because of their efforts, the Young brothers will never be able to victimize anyone else.

Additionally, we would like to thank Deputy District Attorney Jessica Murad and everyone else involved for their hard work during this lengthy trial.

The Antioch Police Department would like to thank the members of the community who assisted us with this investigation, in addition to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab, Serological Research Institute, FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Stockton Police Department.

Lastly, we would like to recognize the tireless efforts of Antioch PD Detective Kelly Inabnett, who was the lead investigator on this case. His extensive work and dedication to bringing justice to the victims led to the identification, arrest, and successful prosecution of this case.

According to the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office, Lamar and Kenry Young, the two brothers who callously committed a sexual assault and robbed two foreign national students in Antioch are facing life sentences.

35-year-old Lamar Lee Young of Stockton and 33-year-old Kenry Lee Young of Antioch attacked a couple on October 16, 2020, before midnight in the Palms Parking Lot near G Street in Antioch. The victims traveled to Antioch from the South Bay to go fishing at a pier on the Delta. When the victims returned to their vehicle, Lamar and Kenry approached them on foot with handguns drawn while the couple were seated in their car. The Youngs then proceeded to use their firearms as blunt force weapons on both individuals, carried out sexual acts on the female victim, and robbed them of their valuables — including an ATM card.

Members of the Antioch Police Investigations Bureau took the lead in reviewing a large amount of video evidence – including areas near the scene of the crime and a bank’s security camera footage where Kenry Young attempted to use the stolen ATM cards to withdraw cash. Investigators also used a DNA sample from Kenry Young to compare it to forensic evidence from the scene of the crime – which resulted in a positive match.

On October 22, 2020, members of the Antioch Police Special Operations and Problem Oriented Policing Units arrested Kenry Young at his residence in Antioch, which was only a few blocks from the crime scene. Lamar Young, identified as the second suspect, was arrested in Stockton on October 29, 2020.

After the Youngs were booked into the Martinez Detention Facility, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office filed a six-count felony complaint on November 2nd against Kenry and Lamar Young.

On September 26^th, 2022, a jury found both men guilty of forcible oral copulation and sexual penetration by a foreign object with enhancements for use of a dangerous or deadly weapon, as well as second-degree robbery and assault. Each faces a minimum of 30 years to life. A sentencing date has been set for December 16^th, 2022, in Martinez in front of Judge Rebecca Hardie.

Deputy District Attorney Jessica Murad – who prosecuted the case for The People — said she’s thankful to the victims for coming forward and “having the courage to testify against these men for these truly horrific crimes. By doing so they have ensured no one else will ever be victimized by these brothers again.”

Antioch Police Detective Kelly Inabnett said in a statement: “I am sorry I met the victims during one of the most traumatic moments of their lives, but I am grateful and inspired by the strength they showed when testifying against their perpetrators. I am grateful the jury decided to hold the Young brothers accountable for their actions.”

The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office and the Antioch Police Department would like to thank the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab, Serological Research Institute, Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Stockton Police Department, the CCCDAO’s Sexual Assault Unit, Legal Assistants, Victim Support, and the members of the community who helped in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

Original Antioch Police News Release

ANTIOCH, CA. On Saturday, October 17, 2020, at about 1:00 am, Antioch Police patrol officers were notified of a brutal sexual assault that occurred in the Palms Parking Lot (near the Foot of G Street). Officers learned two victims were fishing at the San Joaquin River and returned to their vehicle at about 11:50 pm the previous evening. They were approached by two male suspects who were armed with handguns. The suspects robbed and pistol whipped both victims. After doing so, both suspects forced the female victim to perform sexual acts on them. The suspects left the scene in a vehicle – and minutes later – attempted to use a credit card stolen in the incident at an ATM.

Members of the Antioch Police Investigations Bureau took over the investigation and performed an extensive collection of video evidence. This included areas near the scene of the crime and the ATM that was used. From this video collection, investigators developed a suspect, 31-year-old KENRY LEE YOUNG of Antioch. A reference sample of his DNA was compared to forensic evidence from the scene of the crime, resulting in a positive match. On October 22, 2020, members of the Antioch Police Special Operations and Problem Oriented Policing Units arrested Kenry Lee Young at his residence, which was only a few blocks from the crime scene.

Detectives conducted additional investigation and learned the second suspect was Kenry Young’s brother, 33-year-old LAMAR YOUNG of Stockton. On October 29, 2020, members of the Special Operations and Problem Oriented Policing Units placed Lamar Young under arrest in Stockton.

On Monday, November 2, 2020, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office charged both Kenry and Lamar Young with multiple felonies, including oral copulation by force, sodomy by force, sexual penetration by force, aggravated assault with a firearm, and two counts of

robbery. Both remain in-custody at the Martinez Detention Facility awaiting trial and their bail was set at $3,450,000.

Additional inquiries or information can be directed to Antioch Police Detective Inabnett at (925) 779-6932 or by emailing kinabnett@antiochca.gov. Anonymous tips or information about this – or any other incident – can be sent via text to 274637 (CRIMES) with the keyword ANTIOCH.

Contra Costa Supervisors open 1964 time capsule, create new one to be opened in 2072

October 7, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

The members of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors hold Items for the new time capsule to be opened in 50 years. Photo: Contra Costa County

Copy of Antioch Herald, other local newspapers included in new time capsule placed in vault at new county Administration Building

By Contra Costa County Office of Communications & Media

The front cover of the Antioch Herald Feb. 2022 issue included in the new time capsule.

Martinez, CA – On October 4, 2022, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors opened a 58-year-old time capsule that was buried on September 26, 1964, under the prior Administration Building at 651 Pine Street in Martinez.

“We were excited to see what items were preserved in the old time capsule and to accept materials from all five Board Members as well as County departments for the new Administration Building time capsule,” said Board Chair Supervisor Karen Mitchoff. “The new time capsule will be placed in a vault at 1025 Escobar Street and opened in 2072.”

The 1964 capsule contained a diverse collection of artifacts. Some of the unearthed items included the County’s 1964 annual report, predictions from the City of Martinez, emergency numbers for fire, police, and the County, a picture of the building maintenance staff, a County office telephone directory, directions on how to operate a push-button telephone, a photo of the first Contra Costa Courthouse built in 1855 and demolished in 1903, a copy of the special edition dedication of the Administration Building published in the Morning News-Gazette on September 25, 1964, and a letter from the 1960s County Administrator Joseph P. McBrien. The items will be placed on a history wall in the new Administration Building at 1025 Escobar Street.

At the October 4, 2022, Board of Supervisors meeting, the County Board of Supervisors and departments also included items for the new time capsule to be opened in 50 years.

District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis said, “This is a moment where you get to talk to people in the future, and it made me philosophical and introspective. The capsule that we are opening today was set up a year before I was born, and so much turbulence was going on in the world at that time, and as much as things have changed, they haven’t.”

She included a letter addressing the current situation in District 3, the County, and the world, background on District 3 and far east County, and the priorities and issues in 2022. Supervisor Burgis added, “I closed the letter with a message to my future loved ones and encouraged people to continue to give and serve to make the world a better place. We must be optimistic and look forward to the progress that has gone on in the world.”

She also included a bio, a photo with her staff, and information from Antioch, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen, and Oakley. Recent editions of local newspapers including the February 2022 copy of the Antioch Herald which featured the City of Antioch’s yearlong Sesquicentennial Celebration of its 150th anniversary of cityhood, plus brochures of the Future of the Diablo Valley Conference, and the Delta Counties Coalition memorabilia were also included.

Board Vice Chair and District 5 Supervisor Federal Glover said, “This is an opportunity to reflect where the County has been in the last several decades. So, I included some history in terms of myself, in that I am the first African American to be a part of the Board of Supervisors.”

Some items that he included were pins from the cities, brochures, and information on the widening of Highway 4, BART coming into the county system, eBART, community colleges, refineries, the Zero Tolerance initiative against Domestic Violence, electrifying of housing through the Sustainability Committee, the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice, and the Youth Summits.

District 4 Supervisor Mitchoff included a letter highlighting the significant impacts of the pandemic and commenting: “My hope and wish are that 50 years from now, we will have returned to a time when people are respectful, more courteous, and more understanding of different points of view.” Her letter also identified major issues affecting Contra Costa County including the Delta, transportation, housing, and public service.

Mitchoff included letters from each city in her district and photos of their council members. All cities provided pins, Clayton provided a pen, and Pleasant Hill provided a stamp from this year’s library opening.

District 1 Supervisor John Gioia’s letter to the future indicated, “We faced enormous challenges. We persevered. We had faith in our young people and future leaders to protect and fight for our future. We know you will have the wisdom and the will to continue the fight for our planet and our communities.”

He included a CD about the Contra Costa Historical Society, a COVID home test kit, an N-95 mask, a San Francisco Bay Trail Map with a note hoping the trail would be fully built, a T-Shirt from the 5th annual Richmond Indigenous Peoples Walk to show respect for our native inhabitants, a T-Shirt from a recent Coastal Clean-Up Day, a “Racism is a Public Health Crisis” lapel pin, and a lapel pin of the original El Cerrito High School which Gioia attended.

District 2 Supervisor Candace Andersen’s items included letters from Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda and San Ramon. She also wrote a letter describing her role as County Supervisor, as well as the priorities and issues confronting District 2. Supervisor Andersen included a Blackhawk Bulletin, photos of the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council, and a PowerPoint presentation about District 2.

“I also included our holiday card, which is a picture of my staff because they are an integral part of what we do in serving the community,” she added.

To see all the items the Board of Supervisors placed in the new time capsule and opened from the 58-year-old time capsule, visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/8735/Contra-Costa-County-Time-Capsule. The new time capsule is scheduled to be buried at 1025 Escobar Street and opened in 2072. Watch the video of the presentation and ceremony. For more information, you can visit www.contracosta.ca.gov.

DeSaulnier announces House passage of Mental Health Matters Act

September 30, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

A comprehensive package to address concerns of students, families, educators

Rep. Mark DeSaulnier

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D, CA-11), Chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee’s Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions, and Education and Labor Committee Chairman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) announced House passage of the Mental Health Matters Act (H.R. 7780), legislation they authored to help confront the mental health crisis by increasing access to support, services, and resources for children, students, workers, and families. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 220-to-205 with all Democrats and one Republican voting in favor.

“From children and young adults experiencing an uptick in mental health challenges to educator burnout, our country is experiencing a mental health and substance abuse crisis. As someone who lost their father by suicide, I am proud to have led this comprehensive approach to strengthen mental health resources for students, educators, and workers with Chairman Scott,” said DeSaulnier. “I urge the Senate to pass this legislation so we can combat the mental health crisis in this county and ensure everyone has the resources they need to live happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the mental health crisis among students, workers, and families. As a result, educators have been forced to play an outsized role in supporting and responding to students’ mental health needs, leading to increased depression and trauma among educators. Moreover, nearly half of the U.S. workforce now suffers from mental health issues since the COVID-19 pandemic began. In response to the national mental health crisis, I am proud to stand in strong support of the Mental Health Matters Act led by Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. The Mental Health Matters Act delivers the resources that students, workers, and families need to improve their well-being,” said Chairman Scott.

The Mental Health Matters Act takes comprehensive steps to address our nation’s mental health and substance abuse crises by strengthening school-based behavioral health care, bolstering mental health parity protections, and ensuring access to mental health and substance use disorder benefits for workers and families.

Specifically, this bill would:

Increase the number of mental health professionals serving in high-need schools and help to build a pipeline of school-based mental health services providers;
Help state educational agencies recruit and retain school-based mental health services providers at high-need public schools;

Require institutions of higher education to increase transparency around the accommodations process and allow incoming students with existing documentation of a disability to access disability accommodations;

Increase students’ access to evidence-based trauma support and mental health services through innovation by linking schools and districts with local trauma-informed support and mental health systems;

Require the Department of Health and Human Services to identify evidence-based interventions to improve the health of children and staff in Head Start programs, and help Head Start agencies implement these interventions;

Strengthen the capacity of the Department of Labor to ensure that private, employer-sponsored group health plans provide mental health and substance use disorder benefits under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA); and

Strengthen the ability of people with private, employer-sponsored health and retirement plans to hold plan sponsors accountable when they are improperly denied mental health and substance use disorder benefits.

DeSaulnier represents most of Contra Costa County in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Bay Area transportation agency adopts landmark policy to promote housing, commercial development near transit stations

September 29, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

TOD projects adjacent to a BART station. Source: MTC. Credit: Karl Nielsen

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), yesterday, Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022, adopted a new Transit-Oriented Communities (TOC) Policy designed to boost the overall housing supply and increase residential densities in transit-rich areas throughout the Bay Area; spur more commercial development near transit hubs served by multiple agencies; promote bus transit, walking, biking and shared mobility in transit-rich areas; and foster partnerships to create transit-oriented communities where people of all income levels, racial and ethnic backgrounds, ages and ability levels can live, work and thrive. The newly adopted policy applies specifically to transit priority areas within a half-mile of BART, Caltrain, SMART, Capitol Corridor and ACE stations; Muni and VTA light-rail stations; Muni and AC Transit bus rapid transit stops; and ferry terminals.

Studies show people are more likely to ride transit if they live within half a mile of a rail station, ferry terminal or bus line. And jobs that are within a quarter-mile of transit often are more attractive to the Bay Area’s workforce.

The TOC Policy is the update to MTC’s 2005 Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Policy. That set minimums for the average number of housing units (both existing and/or permitted housing units) within a half-mile of each new rail station funded through Regional Measure 2. However, according to MTC spokesperson Rebecca Long the new policy applies to any all existing and future transit priority areas.

“The Transit-Oriented Communities Policy is truly groundbreaking,” explained MTC Chair and Napa County Supervisor Alfredo Pedroza. “Using transportation funds as an incentive, the policy encourages cities and counties to upzone transit-rich areas so transit, walking and biking can be viable travel choices for more people, and so we can generate maximum value from the billions of taxpayer dollars that have been invested in our transit network over the years as well as new transit lines that will be built in the years to come. The policy specifically encourages the development of affordable housing and protects current residents from being displaced by new development.”

The TOC Policy links all four of the themes — transportation, housing, the economy and the environment — of Plan Bay Area 2050, the long-range transportation plan and sustainable communities strategy adopted by MTC and the Association of Bay Area Governments in 2021. Minimum residential density requirements range from 25 units per acre for locations within a half-mile of ferry terminals; SMART, ACE and Capitol Corridor stations; and Caltrains stations south of San Jose’s Tamien station up to 100 units per acre within a half-mile of BART stations in downtown San Francisco and Oakland, and within a half-mile of San Jose’s Diridon Station. The policy also eliminates minimum parking requirements in many transit-rich areas, allows for shared parking between residential and commercial uses, and mandates at least one secure bike parking space for each new dwelling unit.

MTC is the regional transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Former Antioch High football QB and female partner in custody for Brentwood armed robberies

September 23, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Delvon Hasain Hasan & Dioni Tamira Patton. Photos by Brentwood PD.

Identified, arrested with assistance from Concord PD, Antioch PD

By Brentwood Police Department

On Tuesday, Sept. 20 at approximately 3:25 PM, Brentwood Police officers responded to the Bank of America located at 6261 Lone Tree Way for a robbery that just occurred. The victim reported that after exiting the bank, she was approached by one suspect who attempted to grab her purse. A struggle ensued with the suspect while a second suspect was waiting close by in a getaway vehicle. The victim’s wallet and purse, containing an undisclosed amount cash was stolen during the struggle. Both suspects fled the scene in the getaway vehicle, described as a black four-door sedan was seen traveling eastbound on Lone Tree Way.

The victim sustained minor injuries and it was determined a second minor victim was on scene but did not sustain any injuries.

Our investigators quickly performed follow-up and with the help of Concord PD and Antioch PD, identified and arrested 18-year-old Dioni Tamira Patton and 20-year-old Delvon Hasain Hasan both from Antioch. Our investigators also recovered two firearms, other related evidence and two vehicles associated with the robbery. Additionally, it was determined through surveillance footage, these suspects were responsible for a similar robbery that occurred at the same location on Sept.16, 2022, at approximately 2:25 p.m.

Guns confiscated by Brentwood police and Delvon Hasan perp walk.

According to MaxPreps Hasan is a 2021 graduate of Antioch High School where he played baseball and football. According to hudl.com he wore jersey #5 and played quarterback and tight end in 2019.

Through collaboration and partnership, we were able to safely take both suspects into custody. A special thank you to Concord PD and Antioch PD for their assistance.

Please remain vigilant at all times and aware of your surroundings. If you see something suspicious immediately report it to the police.

If you have any information related to this crime, please contact Detective Sares at 925-809-7733. Callers may remain anonymous.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Foulger plays spoiler for third Antioch Speedway win

September 20, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Five-time champion Troy Foulger #49 returned for his fourth IMCA Modified win. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Pearce, Dutra, Holbrook, Brown also winners

By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media

Troy Foulger won the 20 lap IMCA Modified Main Event Saturday night, Sept. 17, 2022, at Antioch Speedway. This was his third win of the season aboard the Bowers Motorsports Modified, and the fact that the five-time champion stole the win from title hopeful Kellen Chadwick meant that Chadwick and Nick DeCarlo ended up tied for the point lead. DeCarlo won the championship on tiebreaker due to four wins to the three that Chadwick had.

Chadwick bolted into the early lead ahead of Bobby Motts Jr, but Foulger slipped past Motts for second on Lap 4. Foulger closed in quickly on Chadwick and made a low pass in Turn 2 on Lap 8 to take the lead. After his own car was broke, incoming leader Nick DeCarlo had to borrow his father’s car and started at the back of the pack. He was trying to make enough passes to at least keep a tie with Chadwick. When Tyler Browne bobbled out of Turn 4 two laps from the end, DeCarlo ended up seventh, which was all he needed to do. Foulger set a rapid pace and brought it home to victory ahead of Chadwick, Motts, Buddy Kniss and Trevor Clymens.

Andrew Pearce #15p gave it a valiant effort in his second IMCA Sport Modified victory, but he’ll come up short in the championship chase. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Andrew Pearce won his second-straight IMCA Sport Modified Main Event, but a third-place finish wrapped up the third championship for Fred Ryland. The race was destined to go without a yellow flag. Pearce and Ryland started on the front row with Pearce charging into the lead ahead of Ryland and Jacob Mallet Jr. Kenny Shrader made an inside pass on the back stretch on Lap 6 to take third and slipped past Ryland on the inside down the front stretch on Lap 10 to take second. However, Pearce had a commanding lead and led the final 10 laps for the impressive win. Shrader settled for second ahead of Ryland, Tommy Fraser and Jason Ryan Jr.

Travis Dutra #22 used his first win of the season to wrap up the IMCA Stock Car championship. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Travis Dutra wrapped up the 2022 IMCA Stock Car championship with his first win of the season. He started on the front row and led immediately ahead of Jason Robles. Troy Foulger gained second on Lap 8 and held the position until he threw a wheel in Turn 2 on Lap 14 to end his race. At that point, Dutra led Ryland and Robles, but Ryland threw a wheel in Turn 4 on the last lap as Dutra picked up the win ahead of Robles, Dan Gonderman, Dave Hill and Jason Jennings.

Clarence Holbrook III #2h scored his fourth Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock win. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Clarence Holbrook III won his fourth Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock Main Event. Despite having a rough last lap, Misty Welborn won the division championship. Jared Baugh took the early lead over Michaela Taylor and they ran that way until Baugh slowed on the back straightaway and pitted in the infield on Lap 8. Taylor led a lap before Grayson Baca took the lead with a low pass in Turn 4 on Lap 9. Aidan Ponciano settled into second and they ran that way until a yellow flag on Lap 16. Holbrook took the lead on the restart with Baca in second. That’s the way they finished over the final laps as Larry McKinzie Jr ended up third followed by Taylor and Kevin Brown.

Dan Brown, Jr. #15 took the Xtreme Limited Late Model point lead with his second Antioch win. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Dan Brown, Jr. won the 20 lap Xtreme Limited Late Model Main Event and in the process took the point lead in the series. He had won the previous race at Antioch. Matt Micheli jumped into the early lead and built a straightaway advantage within seven laps. As the race hit the midway point, Micheli closed in on slower traffic and had a difficult time getting by. Brown made a Turn 2 pass to take the lead. Two slower cars got together in front of leaders with Jake Dewsbury spinning for a Lap 18 yellow flag. Brown maintained the lead on the restart and went on to victory ahead of Micheli, Kiely Ricardo, Rod Oliver and Dewsbury.

Next week is Championship Night #2, featuring the Wingless Spec Sprints, Mini Stocks, W

MR Midgets, a non-point Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock race and the Hardtops. For further information, go to www.antochspeedway.com.

Unofficial Race Results September 17th

Antioch Speedway

IMCA Modifieds

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Bobby Motts Jr, Kellen Chadwick. Main Event (20 laps)-Troy Foulger, Kellen Chadwick, Bobby Motts Jr, Buddy Kniss, Trevor Clymens, Brian Cass, Nick DeCarlo, Jeff Browne, Paul Guglielmoni, Danny Malfatti.

IMCA Sport Modifieds

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Fred Ryland, Kenny Shrader. Main Event (20 laps)-Andrew Pearce, Kenny Shrader, Fred Ryland, Tommy Fraser, Jason Ryan Jr, Jacob Mallet Jr, Chris Sieweke, Joseph Pato, Todd Gomez, Dylan Connelly.

IMCA Stock Cars

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Travis Dutra, Jason Jennings. Main Event (20 laps)-Travis Dutra, Jason Robles, Dan Gonderman, Dave Hill, Jason Jennings, Joe Gallaher, Rob Gallaher, Jeff Bentancourt, Fred Ryland, Troy Foulger.

Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stocks

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Clarence Holbrook III Aidan Ponciano, Jon Haney, Jared Baugh. B Main (15 laps)-Danny Aves, James Graessle, Gavin Griffiths. Main Event (20 laps)-Clarence Holbrook III, Grayson Baca, Larry McKinzie Jr, Michaela Taylor, Kevin Brown, Jewell Crandall, Taylor DeCarlo, Misty Welborn, Jon Haney, Adam Kujala.

Xtreme Limited Late Models

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Matt Micheli, Kiely Ricardo. Main Event (20 laps)-Dan Brown Jr, Matt Micheli, Kiely Ricardo, Rod Oliver, Jake Dewsbury, Jason Ryan Jr, Paul Guglielmoni, Buddy Kniss, Brett Curran.

Contra Costa County provides payment details for out-of-court settlement in Thorpe sexual harassment case

September 19, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

By Susan Shiu, PIO, Contra Costa County Office of Communications & Media

Former LMCHD executive director and Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe.

(Martinez, CA) – Sept. 19, 2022 – The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, in its capacity as successor agency to the Los Medanos Community Healthcare District (“District”), has approved an out-of-court settlement relating to claims submitted by Jasmine Cisneros and Jocelyn Munoz against the District and its former executive director, Lamar Thorpe. (See related article)

The liability insurance carrier for the former District, RSUI Group Inc, handled this matter and provided counsel to defend the claims. Following a mediation session among the parties, a settlement was reached. The settlement was fully executed on August 23, 2022.

The total amount of the settlement of both claims was $350,000, inclusive of attorneys’ fees and costs. Of the settlement amount, $321,000 was paid by the former District’s liability insurance carrier. The remaining settlement amount of $29,000 was paid from the Los Medanos Community Healthcare fund, as an insurance deductible payment.

The Board of Supervisors approved the settlement solely in its capacity as the successor agency to the District. As the successor agency, the County was required to assume all liabilities of the District, including any claims filed against it. The settlement includes a release and waiver of all claims by Cisneros and Munoz against the District, the former executive director, and the County. The settlement also avoids potentially expensive federal court litigation relating to the claims.

Contra Costa Health Plan rated among California’s top health systems

September 19, 2022 By Publisher 1 Comment

The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), the national evaluator of health insurance plans, has recognized Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) as among the best in California for patient experience and the quality of care it provides.

Among health maintenance organizations (HMO) offering Medi-Cal, none rated higher than CCHP on NCQA’s annual report card, which gave the Plan 4 out of 5 stars and exceptionally high marks for patient experience and preventative care.

“We are especially proud of our rating for patient experience, because it comes directly from the people we care for,” Contra Costa County Health Director Anna Roth said. “It shows how strong our county’s healthcare delivery system is, from the medical professionals taking care of county residents to the hospitals and medical clinics serving our community.”

Contra Costa Health provides high-quality, affordable coverage through CCHP, which will mark 50 years of service in 2023, making it the nation’s first federally qualified, state-licensed, county-sponsored HMO.

CCHP’s high marks and recognition by NCQA are a direct result of the exemplary care and patient support provided by Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and affiliated health centers, and our Public Health and Behavioral Health divisions, which touch about 243,000 members, including 235,000 Medi-Cal enrollees.

CCHP earned high marks among patients for the quality of care from primary care doctors, overall quality of care, and preventative care. No other Medi-Cal HMO rated higher.

NCQA is a national nonprofit organization that accredits and evaluates a wide range of healthcare organizations and medical practices. A searchable database of its report cards is available at reportcards.ncqa.org.

Visit contracostahealthplan.org to learn more about CCHP, including how to enroll if you need healthcare, or call 1-800-211-8040 weekdays.

Contra Costa supervisors vote 5-0 to settle sexual harassment claims against Antioch Mayor Thorpe

September 16, 2022 By Publisher 1 Comment

Former LMCHD executive director and Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe.

While executive director at now-defunct healthcare district for $350K; he denies accusations

Mayor pro tem, councilwoman call for his resignation

By Allen D. Payton

On Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to settle claims against Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe by two former female employees for $350,000 from when he was executive director of the now-defunct Los Medanos Community Healthcare District. Then in a press conference held Thursday afternoon, Mayor Pro Tem Mike Barbanica and District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock called for Thorpe to resign as mayor.

The healthcare district was disbanded, earlier this year, the county acts as the successor agency and now, receives the annual revenue estimated at $1.1 million. (See related article)

The women, whose names were provided in the documents as Bay Point resident Jasmine Cisneros and Antioch resident Jocelyn Munoz, filed their claims on February 22, 2022. The two made multiple accusations against Thorpe both on formal government forms and in a resignation letter from Munoz to healthcare district board president, Patt Young, including inappropriate touching and an incident of groping Cisneros while at a California Special Districts Association conference in Monterey.

Formal Claims

Cisneros claimed she worked for the healthcare district “as a Community Outreach Specialist from approximately early 2020 to November 4, 2021, when she was forced to resign her employment. Ms. Cisneros resigned due to sexual harassment, unwanted sexual advances, hostile working conditions, and other unlawful actions resulting from Executive Director Lamar Thorpe’s misconduct, and the District’s inaction, despite having knowledge of that misconduct. Ms. Cisneros has been injured as a result of Thorpe’s misconduct and the District’s inaction. Thorpe’s unwanted sexual advances, harassment, and other unlawful behavior continued until Ms. Cisneros resigned. Ms. Cisneros was forced to resign her employment as a result of Thorpe’s misconduct and the District’s inaction and has been harmed economically in the form of lost wages and emotional distress damages.”

Munoz claims she worked for the district “for approximately eight months, from early 2021 to September 2, 2021, when she was forced to resign her position. Ms. Munoz’s [sic] resigned due to sexual harassment, unwanted sexual advances, hostile working conditions, and other unlawful actions resulting from Executive Director Lamar Thorpe’s misconduct, and the District’s inaction, despite having knowledge of that misconduct. See Exhibit A (Resignation letter). Thorpe’s unwanted sexual advances, harassment, and other unlawful behavior continued until Ms. Munoz resigned on September 2, 2021. Ms. Munoz has been injured as a result of Thorpe’s misconduct and the District’s inaction. Moreover, Ms. Munoz was forced to resign her employment as a result of Thorpe’s misconduct and the District’s inaction and has been harmed economically in the form of lost wages and emotional distress damages.”

Both claims show the amount of compensation sought “Exceeds $10,000”.

Munoz’s Resignation Letter Provides Details

In her resignation letter dated Sept. 3, 2021, Munoz provided details of two incidents involving Thorpe, including one at an Antioch restaurant and another during an out-of-town conference at both ladies, one of their partners and Thorpe stayed the night in a hotel. It also mentions “many levels of harassment and very high levels of hostile working conditions from board members and management. LMCHD has a culture of disrespect, bullying and harassment,” including “board members berating staff during public meetings”.

“In the season of the AB 903 celebration in early July 2021, my partner and I met with the executive director for LMCHD, Lamar Thorpe at La Plazuela in Antioch, CA to socialize and celebrate the win,” she wrote. “While we were seated, Lamar came between my partner and I, looked down at my leg and grabbed my leg; specifically my calf. While still holding my calf, he acknowledged the act and said, ‘this is sexual harassment, should I stop’ and let go. In that same instance, my partner and I agreed to his statement and said, ‘yeah what are you doing?!’ Being fearful of my job, status and Lamars [sic] social status as Mayor of Antioch and executive director I felt his simple acknowledgement was sufficient and I physically moved on, but mentally I still felt trapped.”

“Following the traumatizing experience, I witnessed another horrifying act on August 30, 2021 at the CSDA conference where I saw Lamar inappropriately grope my colleague when we (my partner, my colleague and executive director) were out socializing and walking back to our hotel,” her letter continued. “Immediately following the grope, my colleague got my undivided attention, looked me in the eyes and said, ‘PLEASE walk me back to my room’. My partner and I escorted my colleague to her room, and Lamar opened his hotel room door to check on us and gave us a sinister look. At that moment, my partner and I left to our hotel room.”

“The next day on August 31, 2021 my colleague, my partner and I went to lunch and were discussing what other seminars to attend, that’s where Lamar joked about attending the ‘sexual harassment training and prevention’ and also joked about the inappropriate grope that happened the night before,” Munoz wrote. “Later that evening of August 31, 2021 my colleague, my partner and I were having dinner and Lamar texted us ‘are y’all coming to this reception?’ referring to the conference networking mix and mingle. We did not respond and saw Lamar walk by our table and he ignored us. A few minutes later Lamar approached our table and said ‘hey haters!’ and made two inappropriate hand gestures, showing his middle fingers and walked away.”

On the “evening of September 1, 2021 Lamar texted my colleague and I ‘yo, ya’ll wanna go to Rolando’s house’. I politely declined, and then I heard a knock at my hotel room door. I did not answer fearing that it was Lamar. A few seconds later Lamar called and asked if I was in my room, confirming that the knock was him. He requested to meet with me to have a discussion,” the letter continued. “During the discussion he acknowledged the level of discomfort that he was feeling about the conversation and also stated that he didn’t want to have it. He opened with ‘are we cool?’ At that moment I felt cornered, trapped, triggered and manipulated into having to relive the events that happened on Monday night. The conversation went on for 15 minutes to which he was trying to get a temperature check on the situation at hand. At the end of the conversation, he asked what he could do to make things better. We met up with my partner inside the restaurant where he then approached my partner apologized to him, shook his hand and excused himself.”

“The final day, September 2, 2021 as we were all exiting the conferenced, I approached Lamar…he then proceeded to walk with me and said, ‘you still don’t seem ok’ referring to the events from Monday and the conversation we had the night before…I quickly made an excuse to try to avoid anymore discussion regarding Monday night, but that didn’t help and I ended the conversation by stating I wouldn’t be comfortable with anymore continued unwanted advances,” Munoz added.

“I hope this reveals the level of unprofessionalism at LMCHD, and I hope that this matter gets resolved in the best and most appropriate way. These past events have severely hindered my efficiency at work, my mental health and I don’t know how I can support LMCHD as an employee,” the letter concluded.

No Admissions in Settlement Agreement

The settlement agreement signed in August by the two women and a representative of the county’s Risk Management, includes a “No Admissions” clause. That reads, “It is understood and agreed by the PARTIES that the promises and payments and consideration of this Agreement shall not be construed to be an admission of any liability or obligation by any Party to another Party, the District, the County, Thorpe, or any other person, and the Releasees expressly deny that they have breached any duty, obligation or agreement, or engaged in any tortious or wrongful activity, or that they are liable to the Claimants or any other person or party in any way, or that any injuries, damages or harms of any kind have been sustained by the Claimants.”

Supervisors Explain Their Votes

Each of the county supervisors were asked why they voted to settle the claims. Board Chair Karen Mitchoff responded via email writing, “An independent investigation was performed and concluded it was likely the plaintiffs would prevail in litigation. As with all such claims, the Board was presented with this information, discussed the matter and concluded it was best to settle the matter, thus saving litigation costs and a potentially higher jury award.”

Both Districts 2 and 3 Supervisors Candace Andersen and Diane Burgis issued the same response, writing, “the insurance carrier for the former Los Medanos Community Healthcare District, RSUI Group Inc, handled this case and provided counsel to defend the claims against the former District. Following a mediation session among the parties, a settlement was reached. The Board of Supervisors approved the settlement solely in its capacity as the successor agency to the District. As the successor agency, the County was required to assume all liabilities of the former District, including the claims filed against the District.”

“I really don’t have any additional comments about the specifics of the case,” Andersen added.

Neither Supervisors John Gioia (District 1) nor Federal Glover (District 5) who represents portions of Antioch, responded prior to publication time.

Past Accusation Against Thorpe for Sexual Misconduct

It’s not the first time a woman has accused Thorpe of inappropriate sexual activity. As previously reported, while in college, Thorpe was found guilty of disorderly conduct for “lewd and indecent behavior” against a female student by Student Judicial Services at George Washington University, but he was acquitted of sexual harassment. Thorpe later lost an appeal to overturn the disorderly conduct charge. He has denied the incident ever occurred. In 2016, this reporter chose to believe him, and the Herald endorsed him for city council. (See related articles here and here)

Barbanica, Ogorchock Call for Thorpe’s Resignation

Barbanica and Ogorchock hold press conference Thursday afternoon, Sept. 15, 2022. Facebook Live video screenshot.

During a press conference held Thursday afternoon, at Barbanica’s business office, both he and Ogorchock called for Thorpe’s resignation. The mayor pro tem said he had sent a letter to Thorpe earlier in the day asking him to resign but had not yet heard back.

“This is a distraction for our city. We have a city of 114,000 people and the council has very serious business to do, yet we are sidetracked in these meetings by these types of issues,” Barbanica stated. “I do not believe that the behavior that is suspected, not convicted, but suspected, here is not indicative of a leader within our community; our council and our mayor should be held to a higher standard.”

He should “step aside, resign and allow the council to move forward. That’s what we’re asking him to do,” he added.

Asked if they had read the documents, Ogorchock responded, “I did. I read them all, from their statements, the filings, their release.”

“As did I,” Barbanica added.

Asked for their analysis of what they read he said, “Very concerning.”

Ogorchock responded, “As a woman I felt, that’s why I’m asking for his resignation. This is inexcusable. We can’t behave in this manner and be in a leadership position. You just can’t do that.”

“I’m very disappointed in what I read…in the court documents,” Barbanica later said. “This is not what the citizens want in a leader.”

Questions for Thorpe Go Unanswered, Denies Allegations

Thorpe was asked Friday morning to respond to both the settlement and the calls for his resignation. He was also asked if anything included in the complaints from your two former female employees, true, if they both worked directly for him and how many employees worked at the district when he was executive director.

Thorpe was also asked if he had found a new job and what he is doing for work. He was also asked about a severance that he and the other district employees were each provided, and how long did or will it last.

Finally, Thorpe was asked if he hired the two women, approved their hiring or compensation, or involved in any way in their hiring process and if so, how.

He did not respond as of publication time Friday afternoon. However, according to an East Bay Times report

On Thursday, Thorpe issued a statement denying the allegations.

“I am wholeheartedly heart-broken by these allegations, as they are completely false. When I served as the executive director of the Los Medanos Community Healthcare District (LMCHD), I worked to create an environment that gave opportunities to members of our community that were historically marginalized, as I have always sought to make change through empowerment.

“As the members of my team at the LMCHD can attest, the environment that I created was one of positivity and respect. Although saddened by the allegations, I will not be making any comment about the individuals involved, as I want to continue believing in the good in people, and not allow for this moment to shut down my spirit of community.”

Former Board Chair Patt Young Also Denies Allegations Against Thorpe

When reached for comment about the allegations against Thorpe, former LMCHD Board Chair Patt Young, now a member of the Contra Costa Water District board, said, “I actually, reviewed the allegations, and it just wasn’t credible. He had and has my full support. I found the allegations to be unfounded.”

Asked what she did when she received Munoz’s letter in September, Young responded, “I forwarded, I always forward to our legal counsel. It had to go there, first.”

When asked if she was at the CSDA conference where one of the incidents is alleged to have occurred, Young said, “I was, but I wasn’t with them that evening.”

Asked if she or anyone from the board reached out to the two women, Young stated, “we couldn’t. It would be a violation of the law.

Efforts to reach both Cisneros and Munoz for responses to the denials by Thorpe and Young were unsuccessful prior to publication time.

Wilson Labels Calls for Resignation “Racially Divisive Grandstanding”

In that same Times article, District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson claimed calls for Thorpe’s resignation by Barbanica and Ogorchock to be “racially divisive grandstanding”. Ogorchock is one of Wilson’s three challengers in this year’s council election, after Wilson, Thorpe and District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker drew and then approved a gerrymandered redistricting map, moving Ogorchock into District 4. (See related article)

Ogorchock Responds to Wilson’s Comments

In a post on her official Facebook page Friday morning, Ogorchock wrote, “After reading remarks made by Councilwoman Wilson in response to the press conference held yesterday with Mayor Pro Tem Barbanica and myself requesting Mayor Thorpe to resign appear to be a deflection of the real issues.

Councilwoman Wilson is ignoring that two women presented valid claims of sexual harassment, unwanted sexual advances, hostile working conditions and other unlawful actions. The real issue is the detailed actions of Mayor Thorpe as outlined by the two women under his direction as the executive director.

In speaking with County Supervisor Mitchoff this morning she said, and I quote “after the completion of the investigation and based on credible facts we settled the case”. The county, who took control of the defunct healthcare district, settled the case for $350k.

I stand by my statements made yesterday, and believe that Mayor Thorpe should resign.”

Former Councilwoman Supports Thorpe’s Resignation

“He ought to step down. Enough is enough. First drunk driving, arrested for that. Now, this. Come on. We deserve better in the city of Antioch. Get out,” stated former Antioch Councilwoman Norma Hernandez. “I’m very suspicious of all these allegations that have happened, way in the past and now, if they are true, and this is the mayor representing all of us in the city of Antioch.”

Please check back later for any updates to this report.