Contra Costa Herald

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

Oakley man dies, three boys in stolen car injured in crash following police pursuit from Antioch

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A Con Fire firefighter extinguishes the fire on of three cars involved in the fatal crash at the intersection of O’Hara Avenue and Laurel Road in Oakley on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. Photo courtesy of ContraCosta.news

By Oakley Police Department

On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at approximately 10:24 AM an Oakley police officer was in the area of Main Street and Bridgehead Road. The Oakley officer knew the Antioch Police Department had been pursuing a gray Honda sedan east bound on 18th Street towards Oakley. The gray Honda had been reported as stolen vehicle to the Oakland Police Department on February 22, 2026. At the time the vehicle was stolen, it was reported that a firearm had been left in it.

The Antioch Police Department stopped pursuing the vehicle prior to it leaving the city limits and advised neighboring agencies the car was headed east bound. The Oakley officer remained in the area to keep an eye out for it. The Oakley officer saw the gray Honda enter Oakley at speeds of 80 MPH. The Oakley officer initiated a pursuit of the stolen Honda. The pursuit down Main Street passed the major intersections of Live Oak Avenue, Big Break Road, Empire Avenue, Teakwood Avenue, and Vintage Parkway. The driver of the stolen Honda drove in excessive speeds during the entire pursuit. The driver of the stolen Honda turned right onto south bound O’Hara Avenue.

An Oakley sergeant determined the pursuit should be terminated, and within just a few seconds of the decision to terminate the pursuit, the driver of the stolen Honda collided with another vehicle at the intersection of O’Hara Avenue and Laurel Road. The violent collision resulted in the death of the adult male driver (50, Oakley) of the other vehicle. The collision also resulted in the ejection of one of the occupants of the stolen Honda, a juvenile male. It was further determined the stolen Honda contained two additional juvenile males. All three juveniles who were in the stolen Honda were hospitalized with major injuries. Due to the fact all occupants of the stolen Honda were juveniles, we will not be identifying them.

A second vehicle was also struck by the stolen Honda incidental to the major collision.

The Oakley Police Department is conducting a parallel investigation with the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and the California Highway Patrol as per the Contra Costa County Law Enforcement Fatal Incident Protocol.

This incident is still under active investigation. We will update the public with appropriate information as it becomes available.

This is a tragic incident; the City of Oakley extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the driver who lost his life in this senseless incident.

 

Four to be honored during LMC 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Celebration Feb. 26

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By Juliet Casey Geary, Director of Marketing and Media Design, Los Medanos College

Los Medanos College is pleased to announce the 2026 recipients of our Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards, recognizing community civil rights and social justice champions, and students whose activism sets them apart as emerging leaders. The event is part of LMC’s yearlong acknowledgement of Black history (BHM 365) and raises support for the LMC Foundation African American Student Scholarship.

The Celebration luncheon begins at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the Student Union Conference Center of the Pittsburg Campus, 2700 E. Leland Road.

This year’s honorees:

Emerging Leadership Awards

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Emerging Leadership Award recognizes an LMC student or alumnus who embodies the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and, who within the past year, has made a significant difference on the LMC campus or in the local community through advocacy and social justice. Emerging leaders in our community exemplify the principles of Dr. King and affect social change. Dr. King once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

LMC student Mina Jobe

Mina Jobe. All photos: LMC

Mina Jobe is a student leader and youth activist passionate about social justice, especially women’s and Indigenous rights. Drawing from her Irish, Japanese, and Yaqui heritage, she uses writing, art, and advocacy to raise awareness and uplift her community.

Through school projects and outreach, Mina works to create positive change and hopes to pursue a future dedicated to helping others.

Jobe also is an IMS Alumni Artist in Residence, BNV Alumni, and former PHS SLAM Club President. She has poured love, leadership, and selfless service into the Pittsburg Community for over 2 years. Jobe has participated in countless community open mics, been a community spokesperson at the Prodigies Youth Arts Showcase in 2025.

She has been a featured performer at the LMC Umoja / IMS Say it With Youth Chest Open Mic, and most recently was crowned the Prodigies Grand Slam Champion for 2025. Mina’s greatest contributions are the advice, agape love, and presence she offers Pittsburg youth.

LMC student Chijioke Onyeagucha

Chijioke Onyeaguch

Chijioke Onyeaguch was born Antioch California, the fifth of five siblings. His parents both immigrated to the Bay Area from Nigeria and always taught their children to work hard to achieve their dreams. In 2007, Onyeagucha says he was, “raised in the LMC Child Study Center for a little while.”

He returned to LMC in 2023 after graduating high school and competed in track and field for Diablo Valley College. He joined the Honors Program his first year and has served as an officer with the club for three years. Through his involvement with the program, he had the opportunity to study abroad in Paris in 2024.

At LMC he discovered his passion for writing and worked for LMC’s student-run news outlet, LMC Experience. As a journalist, Onyeagucha aims to bridge narrative with strategy, producing ethical journalism while understanding how media institutions evolve and influence public discourse. As a black journalist, he is committed to reshaping narratives that have historically misrepresented and marginalized communities of color. He is completing two associate degrees for transfer in journalism and business administration, while finishing his Honors Scholar Badge.

He recently presented research on modern forms of colonialism in Nigeria at the statewide Honors research symposium at UC Berkeley, which his parents were able to attend. His career goal is to create spaces within the media industry where strategic innovation coexists to uplift and support culture, so future generations can see themselves represented with depth. He also plans on a career in law.

Beloved Community Award

Tianna Hicks

Tianna Hicks, Vice President, Da Bigger Picture Non-Profit Foundation

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Beloved Community Award is presented to a local resident who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to service and who best represents the core values modeled by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Beloved Community Award is inspired by the term popularized by Dr. King – a global vision in which, as noted by The King Center: all people can share in the wealth of the earth; poverty, hunger, and homelessness will not be tolerated; racism and all forms of discrimination, bigotry, and prejudice will be replaced by an all-inclusive spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood; and love and trust will triumph over fear and hatred. At the heart of the quest for the Beloved Community is agape love, which Dr. King described as “understanding, redeeming goodwill for all” – a love “seeking to preserve and create community.”

Tianna Hicks is a co-founder with her son, Najee Harris, and vice president of Da Bigger Picture Non-Profit Foundation, which aims to create access and opportunity for youth through community programs, school partnerships, and events that build confidence. The organization works to support families facing hunger and homelessness, provides resources to families in need with food giveaways, backpack and school supplies giveaways, toy drives, free youth camps, and a clothing closet to support the Antioch Unified School District students in need of interview, prom, graduation or special event attire.

Born in San Francisco, Hicks attended Philip and Sala Burton High School in San Francisco, and Fremont High School in Oakland. She graduated from P.I.M.A. Medical institute in Seattle, Wash., with a certificate of completion in medical assistance. Hicks then worked at Kaiser Permanent as a business representative from 2010 to 2016. She left Kaiser and moved to Birmingham, Alabama. to support her youngest son through college. She worked as a front desk medical receptionist for plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael S. Beckenstein, from 2016 to 2020. After her son graduated from college the pair moved back to California where she and her son formed Da Bigger Picture Non- Profit Foundation. The future goal for Da Bigger Picture is to expand services throughout the community, offering resources for families in need of mental health support groups for men and women.

Visionary Leadership Award

Dennisha Marsh, Executive Director, Parent of African American Achievement Collaborative Team

Dennisha Marsh

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visionary Leadership Award recognizes a member of the East Contra Costa County community who demonstrates the qualities of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Visionary Leadership Award honors individuals who embody Dr. King’s strengths as a transformational, servant leader. Dr. King inspired others to shape the future articulated in his vision. He focused on the well-being, growth, and empowerment of others and the community he served. Dr. King said, “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable…Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.”

Dennisha Marsh is the executive director of the Parental African American Achievement Collaborative Team (PAAACT), a nonprofit organization dedicated to aligning essential educational and economic resources with underserved families in Contra Costa County.

She serves on several city and county commissions and advisory committees. She is a member and past chair of the Pittsburg Community Advisory Commission, which advises the City Council on community services, including parks, recreation, and public safety issues. Marsh has chaired the Pittsburg Measure M Oversight Committee and the Pittsburg Community Block Grant. She has served as an advisor for the Youth Advisory Commission and Public Safety.

Marsh serves on Los Medanos Health Advisory Committee for Contra Costa County, following her tenure on Los Medanos Health District elected board prior to its transition to county oversight, Library Commission, Measure X, East Bay Regional Park District Advisory Committee and Educational Chair for East County NAACP.

In the Pittsburg Unified School District, Marsh participated as a member of the District Advisory Council, the Bond Oversight Committee, and the Student Attendance Review Board. She was a member of the Economic Opportunity Council and the Racial Justice Task Force.

Marsh has played a crucial role in fostering communication among community stakeholders, leading to the reconstruction of educational facilities and the development of community gardens throughout the Pittsburg Unified School District. She has worked on summer STEM programs for youth and secured new equipment and signage for local schools. Her advocacy has also spurred local road repairs and policies aimed at enhancing community safety, including the installation of street speed bumps and the development of a skateboard park in the City of Pittsburg.

Marsh participated in community advocacy for the name Thurgood Marshall Regional Park, home of the Port Chicago 50, and took part in the Contra Costa Bar Association’s Task Force for the exoneration of the Port Chicago 50.

Marsh and her husband live in the City of Pittsburg, where they have a son who is in college.

Keynote Speaker

Kolette Simonton

Kolette Simonton, Director, City of Pittsburg Department of Recreation

Lifelong Pittsburg resident Kolette Simonton is committed to her community. A product of Pittsburg High School (Class of ’96, Student Body President), she honed her communication skills at CSU Sacramento, graduating in 2001 with a degree in Communications/Public Relations. Her early career included roles with the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce, Contra Costa and San Jose Newspapers, KRON 4 News, and Changed Life Church, providing a strong foundation for her 18-year tenure with the City of Pittsburg. Today, she serves as the Director of Recreation.

Kolette’s leadership touches all aspects of Pittsburg’s recreational offerings. She oversees the Marina Community Center, Pittsburg Senior Center, and the city’s extensive park system, including Small World Park and Buchanan Swim Center. She spearheads popular events like the Old Town Car Shows, 1st Friday Music Series, and the Pittsburg Jazz, Blues & Funk Festival. Kolette is passionate about providing diverse programs, from youth and adult sports leagues to adaptive sports and fitness, the My Brothers Keeper Initiative, and the Pittsburg Youth Commission.

Kolette was honored as the 2025 recipient of the Los Medanos College Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Beloved Community Award and was added as a member of LMC Foundation Board.

Kolette’s commitment extends beyond her professional role. She serves on the board and coaches for Full Stride Track Club and is active in the Pittsburg Kiwanis. She is grateful for the support of her husband, Ken, and children, Nayelli and Kenneth IV, in her community endeavors. Kolette’s daily focus is on expanding accessible, engaging, and inclusive opportunities for Pittsburg residents to connect and thrive.

About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, serving the east Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood. For more information visit www.losmedanos.edu.

Oakley woman announces third run for Congress in District 10

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Katherine Piccinini will again take on incumbent Mark DeSaulnier with campaign theme, “Putting the People First”

Longtime Oakley resident Katherine Piccinini announced she has officially filed to run for Congress in District 10 — “bringing a proven record of community leadership, public service and results.” Although Piccinini lives in the portion of Oakley now in the new District 9 following the passage of Prop. 50 last November, just outside of District 10, when asked about her decision to run in the neighboring congressional district Piccinini said, “I am running in Congressional District 10 as I did in 2024. District 10 is my base and my donors are there. So are my friends and family. District 10 it is!!”

However, candidates for and Members of Congress aren’t required to live in the district they represent, just the same state, as Congressman John Garamendi lived just outside the district he represented for several years.

Her campaign announcement continues, “Coming from a law enforcement family, Katherine believes in honoring those who serve — police, firefighters, military, veterans and first responders — while keeping communities safe and accountable. Her priorities include protecting children, supporting parents, honoring farmers, securing borders and ensuring opportunity for every hardworking American.

“She believes government must work for people — not special interests — and that transparency, accountability, and common sense must replace division and dysfunction. Her campaign is rooted in the belief that Americans deserve clean air, safe food, pure water, safe communities, affordable living, fiscal responsibility, free speech, and a government that listens.  Putting the People First has been her heart since 2022.

“A mother of four and grandmother of five, Piccinini knows firsthand the challenges families face. In 2022, she launched a grassroots write-in campaign that earned over 1,600 votes in just 20 days — the strongest Congressional write-in performance in Northern California in over a decade. In 2024, running on the ballot, she received more than 122,000 votes, the highest total for any non-incumbent congressional candidate in the region.

“Piccinini has served as President of East Contra Costa Republican Women, helped found the Eastern Contra Costa Republican Assembly, and served on multiple county and state party leadership boards. More importantly, she has spent years listening to constituents, supporting community organizations, and standing up for working families.

“Piccinini is running to restore trust in leadership, protect freedoms, and ensure future generations inherit a nation of opportunity, security, and hope for the American Dream once more.

“She pledges to be your voice in Washington — and she wants to hear from you. Together, we can stand as neighbors, not partisans, united in one mission: Putting the People First.

“Contact Katherine Piccinini to share your priorities or support her campaign at piccinini4congress@gmail.com.”

New CD10 Map. Source: Wikipedia

The new District 10 includes most of Contra Costa County, except for Pittsburg, Antioch, Bethel Island, most of West County and portions of Oakley. (See District Map here, here or here) According to Wikipedia, the ethnicity is 47.7% White, 22.2% Asian ,18.3% Hispanic, 6.1% Two or more races, 4.6% Black and 1.2% other and Median household annual income is $151,546.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Super Bowl anti-human trafficking operations net 29 traffickers, recovery of 73 victims

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Source: Santa Clara County DA’s Office

Including 7 traffickers in Contra Costa County; CCDA, Pittsburg PD participate

By Lt. Joshua Singleton, Task Force Commander, Human Trafficking Task Force, Santa Clara District Attorney’s Office                 

Days after the Super Bowl, the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Human Trafficking Task Force reported its own statistics: numbers that showed enhanced investigations resulted in the arrests of 29 traffickers and the recovery of 73 sex trafficking victims, including 10 minors. One of the victims, who was being trafficked in Oakland, was 12 years old.

Law enforcement operations were held throughout 11 Bay Area counties during the lead up to one of the world’s biggest sporting events. Similar enforcement is being prepared for the deluge of fans coming to see the 2026 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament games at Levi’s Stadium between June 13 and July 1.

Santa Clara District Attorney Jeff Rosen said: “Beyond football, the Super Bowl was a triumph of Bay Area law enforcement planning, organization, cooperation, and safety. Human trafficking is not a game, it’s a tragedy. However, our team was very successful. Close to 70 agencies effectively discouraged traffickers from exploiting the game and victims. For traffickers that still came to the game from all over the world with bad intentions, many ended up behind bars.”

The HTTF helped organize the efforts of 67 law enforcement agencies from Sacramento to Monterey.

For two weeks before the big game, the Task Force set up a command center in Sunnyvale populated with more than 20 analysts from various agencies, such as the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, the DA’s Crime Strategies Unit, the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office, Pittsburg Police Department, federal agencies and partners from community-based organizations such as In Our Backyard, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The analysts worked on tips in real time and worked alongside agents in the field to do investigations and make arrests. Operations that often take weeks took minutes in the enhanced Human Trafficking Tactical Operations Center.

Launching almost 40 operations, investigators recovered 20 victims from San Mateo County alone. Seven traffickers were arrested in Contra Costa County; six in Monterey and Solano counties. In Santa Clara County, seven victims were recovered, two traffickers arrested and a firearm was seized.

View the In Our Backyard 2026 Super Bowl Report.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

DRE urges CA seniors to watch for targeted real estate and property scams

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Sacramento, Calif. – The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) encourages seniors to be aware of real estate and mortgage fraud targeting older adults. Scammers increasingly target seniors with real estate and mortgage-related deception, exploiting their trust and financial vulnerability.

The following tips aim to help Californians safeguard themselves before harm is done, as well as how to report this type of fraud.

Fraud Avoidance Tips

  1. Be vigilant, diligent, and suspicious, and proceed very cautiously, when contacted by strangers.
  1. Use only licensed professionals when engaging the services of people or companies offering rental, home loan, foreclosure rescue, or other real estate services on your behalf. Check licensing at dre.ca.gov and dfpi.ca.gov.
  1. Never pay in cash, or wire cash to anyone, in connection with real estate transactions; Also, be certain to protect your personal information, such as social security number, so scammers cannot steal your identity.
  1. Never pay anyone for home loans or foreclosure relief services in advance of successfully completing the work you wanted them to do for you.
  1. Never sign an agreement for a real estate transaction (including a Rental) or a home loan that you cannot afford.
  1. Never sign a real estate (including Rental) or home loan agreement that you do not understand or have not read, or which contains blank spaces.
  1. Anyone (including scammers without an appropriate or legitimate California license) can advertise on television or radio, in newspapers, magazines or on the Internet.
  1. Just because someone looks professional, sounds like an expert, and/or gives you confidence in their real estate knowledge, does not mean that you can or should trust them.
  1. Never transfer or sign your home over to any third party or anyone else who claims that such a transfer can or will help you repair your credit or keep you in your home. Also, never sign a “power of attorney” giving rights to your property or money to any individual – or any company – you do not personally know and trust.
  1. Monitor and periodically check the title to your real estate holdings, just like you check your credit reports; and act immediately if you detect fraud.
  1. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Current Types of Real Estate Fraud

Foreclosure Rescue Schemes 

Scammers promise to save a homeowner’s property from foreclosure in exchange for fees or title transfer. Victims often lose both their homes and money when no real help is provided.

Unlicensed Prepaid Rental Listing Services Fraud 

Scammers offer rental property lists for a fee without proper licensing. Victims often pay upfront but receive outdated or nonexistent listings, leaving them without a rental and no recourse.

Timeshare Resale and Rental Schemes 

Fraudsters promise to sell or rent timeshares for a fee but either fail to deliver, exaggerate property value, or sell nonexistent interests, exploiting owners’ desire to liquidate or monetize their timeshare.

Online Rental Fraud 

Scammers advertise fake rental properties online, often requesting deposits or personal information before disappearing, targeting people searching for homes or vacation rentals.

Unlicensed Property Managers 

Individuals manage rental properties without the necessary real estate license, potentially leading to mismanagement, legal issues, or financial loss for property owners and tenants.

Real Property Recordation Fraud 

Fraudsters forge or falsify deeds and record them against properties without the owner’s consent, potentially leading to disputes over property ownership.

Real Property Investment Schemes 

Scammers promote high-return real estate investments that are either nonexistent or misrepresented, leading to financial losses for investors.

Reverse Mortgage Scams 

Fraudulent schemes target seniors, offering reverse mortgages with misleading terms or fees, potentially leading to loss of home equity or foreclosure.

Vacant Land Scams

Scammers or bad actors posing as owners of vacant land and contact real estate agents for their assistance to sell a property they do not own.

How Consumers Can Report Suspected Fraud

If you believe you have been a victim of a mortgage crime or have a concern or complaint about a real estate salesperson or broker, you can file a complaint with DRE: https://dre.ca.gov/Consumers/FileComplaint.html

ABOUT DRE

The Department of Real Estate is the regulatory agency that enforces the Real Estate Law, Subdivided Lands Law, and Vacation Ownership and Timeshare Act. DRE oversees the licensure of approximately 434,000 licensees. The Department’s mission is to safeguard and promote the public interests in real estate matters through licensure, regulation, education, and enforcement. Consumer protection is its highest priority. For more information, visit: www.dre.ca.gov.

Oakley man charged with attempted murder of Contra Costa Sheriff’s Deputy transferred from hospital to jail

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54-year-old Raymond Edward Smith held on $1.385 million bail

Began as restraining order violation

By Allen D. Payton

An Oakley man charged with attempted murder for shooting at a Contra Costa Sheriff’s Deputy during an hours-long stand-off last month, was transferred from a hospital to jail on Wednesday, Feb. 18th, according to CrimeVoice.com. Raymond Edward Smith, 54-years-old (born 12/6/1971), was arrested following a self-inflicted gunshot.

As previously reported, on Monday, January 12, 2026, at about 10:50 AM, a deputy sheriff was dispatched to a call regarding a violation of a restraining order. A deputy conducted a traffic enforcement stop after locating the suspect vehicle on the 4300 block of Gold Run Drive in Oakley. Almost immediately after the stop, the driver came out of the vehicle and fired several shots at the deputy. The deputy was not struck and was able to return gunfire.

The suspect fled on foot in the neighborhood. During the search for the suspect, the Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Oakley Police Department, California Highway Patrol, East Bay Regional Park Police, Brentwood Police Department, and Antioch Police Department. The Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team, Hostage Negotiation Team, Drone Unit and a police K-9 also responded. The suspect was found barricaded at his home in the 2700 block of Placer Drive in Oakley.

After several hours of attempting to communicate with the suspect, the SWAT team armored vehicle approached the residence. A gunshot was heard. The suspect apparently tried to take his own life. Medical personnel, who were on scene, immediately implemented life-saving measures. Smith was transported to a local hospital.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the six-foot, one-inch tall, 200-pound Smith is Hispanic and being held in the Martinez Detention Facility and his bail was set at $1,385,000. UPDATE: However, according to Sheriff’s Office Director of Public Affairs Jimmy Lee, Smith is being held on no bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 26th at 1:30 p.m. in Martinez Superior Court Department 5.

Also, according to CrimeVoice.com, his “bond amount is a cumulative total and involves three other cases filed against Smith for prior unrelated offenses.

  • $1.25 million for attempted murder of peace officer, and assault with a firearm
  • $100,000 for violation of a domestic violence restraining order
  • $25,000 for an outstanding warrant related to package thefts
  • $10,000 for additional misdemeanor warrants

“One of Smith’s other pending cases involves second-degree burglary in Discovery Bay. Smith is
accused of stealing packages from porches last year in December.”

According to localcrimenews.com, Smith was also arrested in December 2013 by the Lake County Sheriff’s Department for assault with a deadly weapon or assault with force likely to produce great bodily harm and in May 2024 by the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department for Warrants or Holds Only.

Joint Contra Costa DA, Air District prosecution secures $10.6M from Martinez Refining Company

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Contra Costa DA Diana Becton is joined by Deputy District Attorney Brian Tierney and Bay Area Air District General Counsel Alexander Crockett during a press conference on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026. Photo courtesy of Supervisor John Gioia, Contra Costa County’s representative on the Air District Board.

For violations between 2020 and 2024, doesn’t include Feb. 2025 fire; will benefit multiple agencies

“We are committed to safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible operations and to being actively engaged locally.” – from MRC statement

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office

Martinez, California – A joint prosecution by the Contra Costa District Attorney and Bay Area Air District has resulted in a $10 million penalty against Martinez Refining Company (MRC), along with compliance improvements at its Martinez refinery, and $600,000 in mitigation payments for supplemental environmental projects.

Judge Benjamin T. Reyes, II signed the final judgment on February 18th, 2026. The case involved a number of violations that occurred at MRC’s refinery located at 3495 Pacheco Boulevard in the City of Martinez and unincorporated Contra Costa County between early 2020 and late 2024, including offenses under the health and safety code, business and professions code, and fish and game code.

The complaint stemmed from violations over four years, including MRC’s 2022 Thanksgiving Day release of spent catalyst that covered parts of Martinez in a white ash-like substance. Other major violations included illegal flaring, fires, leaking tanks, public nuisance-level odors in downtown Martinez, and releases of “coke dust” — a powdery oil refining byproduct — spreading beyond the refinery’s fence line onto neighboring properties. The violations are described in 163 notices of violation issued by the Air District.

This enforcement action does not include the February 1, 2025, fire at the MRC refinery. The Air District is addressing that incident through a separate enforcement action. (See related articles here and here)

District Attorney Diana Becton said, “The residents of Martinez deserve to feel safe in their communities. This civil action holds the Martinez Refining Company accountable for numerous violations, enforces compliance with the law, and reinforces our office’s dedication to protecting public health and safety through all available legal means, including civil action.”

Distribution of $10 Million Penalty

The $10 million penalty will be distributed as follows:

  • $6.35 million to the Air District, most of which will be reinvested in beneficial projects in Martinez and the surrounding areas that were impacted by these violations under the Air District’s Community Benefits Penalty Funds Policy
  • $3.5 million to the District Attorney’s Office Environmental Unit for enforcement efforts
  • $100,000 to Contra Costa Health Services
  • $50,000 to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife

In addition to the $10 million penalty, MRC will also pay $600,000 in mitigation payments to fund supplemental environmental projects. These payments include:

  • $450,000 for air filtration systems in public schools near the Martinez Refinery Company
  • $100,000 to the Certified Unified Program Agency for environmental regulator scholarships
  • $50,000 to Contra Costa County Fish and Game’s Community Propagation Fund to enhance the county’s fish and wildlife resources

Moreover, the judgment requires MRC to change how it operates its catalytic cracking unit to keep key emissions control equipment operational during startup and shutdown operations. The company is also required to install enhanced emissions monitoring systems on various other pieces of equipment.

“This enforcement action reflects significant air quality violations and makes clear that compliance with air quality laws is mandatory,” said Alexander Crockett, the Air District’s general counsel. “The penalty the Air District is collecting through this action will support local and regional projects that improve air quality and public health under our Community Benefits Policy. Strong enforcement ensures accountability while directing resources back to the communities most affected by pollution.”

The attorneys prosecuting the case include Deputy District Attorney Bryan Tierney; Assistant District Attorney Stacey Grassini; and Air District Assistant Counsel Brian Case.

MRC Responds

Asked if MRC had a response, Dominic Aliano, Community & Government Relations Manager for MRC, shared the following: “Martinez Refining Company (MRC) is pleased to announce the settlement of the joint civil enforcement action initiated by the Contra Costa County District Attorney (District Attorney) and the Bay Area Air District (Air District) in November 2023 involving multiple agencies, including the Air District, Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Contra Costa County Health. The parties agreed to the settlement without trial or adjudication of facts or law, and MRC has made no admission of liability to any of the underlying allegations and/or claims.  The settlement resolves all notices of violations issued by the Air District against MRC from February 1, 2020, to February 1, 2025, including those related to the November 2022 catalyst release, and the July 11 and October 6, 2023, coke dust releases, for total civil penalties of $6.35 million. (See related articles here, here, here, here and here)

“MRC will separately pay civil penalties of $100,000 to Contra Costa Health Services and $50,000 to the California Department of Fish & Wildlife for other notices of violations.  The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office will receive $3.5 million for its involvement in the action.

“MRC recognizes that we must earn the right to operate in Martinez and that we have a responsibility to be involved in and to give back to the Martinez community. We are committed to safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible operations and to being actively engaged locally. In resolving these matters, MRC included provisions directly for the benefit of the Martinez community. As a result:

  • MRC is providing $450,000 to fund high-performance air filtration systems projects at public schools in the vicinity of the refinery.  Allocation of the funds will be prioritized based on proximity of the applicant schools to the refinery.  The District Attorney and MRC will be providing further information on how public schools located in the City of Martinez can apply to receive the funds.
  • MRC is providing $50,000 to fund the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee Propagation Fund to enhance the county’s fish and wildlife resources in the local community.
  • MRC is providing $100,000 to the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) Forum Environmental Protection Trust Fund for scholarships to attend and participate in the annual California Unified Program Annual Training Conference and other trainings to benefit Contra Costa County local CUPAs.

“We thank our employees for their hard work and dedication to safe and reliable operations.  We also thank the District Attorney and Air District for working constructively with us to resolve these matters.

“We look forward to continuing to safely manufacture products that fuel the economy and help make modern life possible.”

City of Martinez responds to Martinez Refining Company violations, penalties

Martinez, CA — The City of Martinez acknowledges the recent announcement by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and the Bay Area Air District of a $10 million civil penalty assessment on the Martinez Refining Company (MRC), owned by PBF Energy and located in unincorporated Contra Costa County, for violations occurring between 2020 and 2024. In total, 163 notices of violation are addressed by this penalty, including the November 2022 spent catalyst release incident.

Mayor Brianne Zorn noted the significance of this development, stating, “This action is a meaningful first step in addressing the impacts our community has experienced. We appreciate that resources will soon begin to reach Martinez and help protect some of the most vulnerable members of our community, our children. We will continue to follow the process closely as grant funds are made available through the District’s Community Benefits Fund to improve the health and safety of Martinez and our neighbors.”

As outlined in the announcement, the Air District will receive $6.35 million and intends to allocate most of this amount toward community-focused grants under its Community Benefits Penalty Funds Policy, with the intention of funding projects beneficial to residents of Martinez and other affected communities. The grant process for these specific funds is not yet available for applications, and more information about the process and eligibility will be provided by the Air District as the grant process is finalized.

In addition to the $10 million penalty, MRC will also pay $600,000 in mitigation payments to fund supplemental environmental projects, including $450,000 towards air filtration improvements in schools located near the refinery. This initial investment will provide a necessary tangible benefit to students and school faculty within our affected community.

Moreover, the judgment requires MRC to change how it operates its catalytic cracking unit, and the company is also required to install enhanced emissions-monitoring systems on various other pieces of equipment.

This enforcement action does not address incidents that occurred in 2025, including the February 1, 2025 fire incident at MRC. Those matters remain under separate review by the appropriate regulatory agencies. The City will continue to monitor those processes and appreciates the ongoing commitment of the District Attorney’s Office and the Air District to advocate for our community’s health, safety, and wellbeing.

Information Resources:

Bay Area Air District Community Investments Office – https://www.baaqmd.gov/en/community-health/community-investments-office

About the Air District

The Bay Area Air District (formerly the Bay Area Air Quality Management District) is the regional agency responsible for protecting air quality and the global climate in the nine-county Bay Area. Connect with the Air District via Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and on their website at www.baaqmd.gov.

About Martinez Refinery Company

According to the company’s LinkedIn profile, the Martinez plant was built in 1915 and refines gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. As the first continuously running refinery in the United States, Martinez is considered the ‘birthplace of the modern refining process’. In 2020, Martinez became part of the PBF Energy Family of Refineries has 560 employees, 250 contract partners and is owned by New Jersey-based PBF Energy. According to the parent company’s website, it “is one of the largest independent petroleum refiners and suppliers of unbranded transportation fuels, heating oil, petrochemical feedstocks, lubricants and other petroleum products in the United States.” For more information visit https://martinezrefiningcompany.com.

Case No. C-26-00490 | The People of the State of California v. Martinez Refining Company, LLC

CCWD Division 2 Director Burgh to step down March 31st

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CCWD Division 2 Director John Burgh will step down after 22 years on March 31, 2026. Photo: CCWD

After representing Central County communities for 22 years on Board

“CCWD is on a solid path investing in the next generation of water service with a collaborative Board and innovative staff.” – Director Burgh

By Nicola McCluney, Management Assistant, Public Affairs, Contra Costa Water District

Concord – During the Board meeting on February 18, Contra Costa Water District’s Board Director, John A. Burgh, announced that after 22 years representing the community on water issues, he will step down from the Board effective March 31, 2026.

Director Burgh was appointed to the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) Board of Directors in 2004. He represents Division 2, which includes Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Port Costa and a portion of Concord. During his 22-year tenure, he served on the Public Information & Conservation, Operations & Engineering, Finance and Retirement & OPEB Joint Advisory Committees.

Director Burgh’s 42-year professional career, working as an engineer on water and wastewater projects throughout the world, gave him a unique perspective joining the CCWD Board.  His technical expertise translated to thoughtful policy decisions ensuring CCWD makes sound investments in critical infrastructure to the benefit of all customers, including future generations. While serving on the CCWD Board, his highest priorities have been transparency in spending public dollars, regional collaboration and smart infrastructure investments based on the best available data.

“It has been my honor to represent my neighbors on the CCWD Board for 22 years,” said Burgh. “This Board operates at the highest level of transparency and accountability. I have learned so much from each of my colleagues and always appreciated the respectful discussions, especially when we had differing points of view.”

When asked about his decision to step down from the board, Burgh responded, “While a tough decision, CCWD is on a solid path investing in the next generation of water service with a collaborative Board and innovative staff. For my own personal reasons, this felt like the right time for me to step down and provide an opening for the next generation of water policy leaders.”

According to his bio on the CCWD website, Burgh is a retired engineer who has worked on water and wastewater projects throughout the world. He has a total of 42 years of experience in the administration, project management and design of public works projects.

For the last 30 years of his career, he worked for an environmental engineering consulting firm, where he retired as vice president.

Burgh holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s degree in management from the University of New Mexico. He is a registered civil engineer in California and an Air Force veteran.

He is a past President of the Contra Costa County Historical Society. A resident of Concord for over 35 years, he is a member of the Pleasant Hill Rotary Club and is a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels, delivering meals to shut-in senior citizens in the area.

Director Burgh’s last day is March 31, and the Board will need to decide to fill the vacancy for Division 2 by appointment or election.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Following chase to Oakland four arrested for Walnut Creek auto burglary

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Video screenshots including from a helicopter infrared camera and police body cam footage show Walnut Creek auto burglary suspects, fleeing car during police chase on the Hwy 13 onramp in Oakland, hunt and apprehension on Jan. 31, 2026. Source: Walnut Creek PD

Connected to other auto burglaries; ground and air assist from Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, CHP

By Walnut Creek Police Department

In the early morning hours of January 31, 2026, Walnut Creek Police officers responded to a report of a vehicle burglary in a residential neighborhood.

Shortly after the initial call, officers observed a vehicle leaving the area at a high rate of speed. A pursuit was initiated and continued until the vehicle became disabled on Highway 13 in Oakland. Several individuals fled from the vehicle as ground and air resources from Walnut Creek Police, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Highway Patrol assisted with a coordinated search of the area.

During the investigation, officers determined the group was connected to additional vehicle burglaries occurring within a similar timeframe.

In total, four suspects were located and taken into custody. One adult was arrested on multiple charges related to vehicle burglary, possession of stolen property, evading, conspiracy, and resisting. Additional involved individuals were identified and released to responsible parties in accordance with department policy.

See video of auto burglary, chase and arrests.

Robbery suspects wanted in multiple Contra Costa jurisdictions in custody

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Jarmaya Tillman of Antioch (left) and Allen Charles Benjamin Foster of Oakland (right) were arrested for bank robbery on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026. Photos: CCC Sheriff’s Office

From Antioch and Oakland, each with history of arrests

By Jimmy Lee, Director of Public Affairs, Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at about 1:01 PM, Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office Valley Station deputy sheriffs responded to a report of a robbery at a bank on the 3100 block of Danville Boulevard in Alamo.

The suspect and vehicle descriptions were broadcast to area law enforcement agencies. Danville police were able to identify a license plate associated with the suspect vehicle and began searching for it.

Lafayette police officers also began searching for the suspect vehicle in the downtown area and witnessed an attempted robbery outside a bank on the 3600 block of Mt. Diablo Blvd. The suspect ran to a waiting vehicle, which fled toward Lafayette Circle. Lafayette police later located the unoccupied car parked on Lafayette Circle.

A replica firearm found in one of the suspects’ backpacks. Photo: CCC Sheriff’s Office

Lafayette police were able to detain two suspects near East Street and determine they were the suspects in the Lafayette attempted robbery and the Alamo robbery. A search of the suspect’s backpack found a replica Glock firearm. Another police department in the area is investigating a similar incident just prior to the Alamo robbery.

Jarmaya Tillman, 23-years-old from Antioch (born 4/13/2002) and 20-year-old Allen Charles Benjamin Foster of Oakland (born 3/28/2005), were arrested for robbery, attempted robbery and two counts of conspiracy.

Both suspects were booked into the Martinez Detention Facility.

Tillman is being held in lieu of $200,000 bail, while Foster’s bail is set at $150,000.

During the search for the suspects, Valley Station deputy sheriffs and Lafayette police were assisted by Danville PD, Orinda PD, Moraga PD and Concord PD.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, Tillman is five-feet, 11-inches tall and 160-pounds and Foster is five-feet, 10-inches tall and 195-pounds.

According to localcrimenews.com, Tillman is Black and while an Oakland resident was arrested three times in 2020 and 2021 for burglary, with one arrest including charges for minor in possession of live ammunition and minor shall not be in possession of any concealed firearm.

Foster is Black and this is his ninth arrest since 2023 by five other agencies for crimes including multiple counts of vehicle theft, grand theft, robbery, receiving stolen property and gun charges.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact the Investigation Division at (925) 313-2600. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.