Contra Costa Herald

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

El Cerrito Police Officer honored with MADD Award

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El Cerrito Police Officer Will Sepe (center) is joined by ECPD leadership during the MADD Award ceremony July 9th. Photo: El Cerrito PD

For 27 DUI arrests

By El Cerrito Police Department

Congratulations to Officer Will Sepe, who was recognized at the recent Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Awards for his outstanding efforts to keep our community safe. Officer Sepe made 27 DUI arrests in 2025, demonstrating his commitment to removing impaired drivers from our roadways and helping prevent impaired driving crashes.

He was honored at the 2026 MADD Law Enforcement and Prosecutor Recognition Awards Ceremony, held at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville, Thursday, July 9.

El Cerrito Police Officer Sepe congratulated at the MADD Award ceremony July 9, 2026, and his plaque. Photos: El Cerrito PD

Each year, MADD honors law enforcement officers for their impaired‑driving arrest achievements, as well as first responders, prosecutors, probation officers and MADD volunteers for their life‑saving contributions. Each has contributed to putting an end to drunk and drugged driving, supporting the victims of these violent crimes, and preventing underage drinking and other drug use. Every impaired driver removed from the road represents a potential life saved.

The 23152 Pin Award is given to sworn officers who make 25 or more DUI arrests in a single year. The pin’s red color symbolizes victims of impaired‑driving crashes and officers killed or injured in such collisions.

We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his dedication to public safety.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Richmond Police crackdown on illegal fireworks during July 4th Enforcement Operation

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Video screenshot of illegal fireworks in Richmond on July 4th, 2026, an officer extinguishes fireworks and illegal fireworks confiscated. Source: Richmond PD

“Upward of 500 people were blocking roadways and setting off illegal fireworks.”

By Richmond Police Department

Throughout America’s 250th Independence Day on July 4, 2026, the Richmond Police Department had a strong presence across the city, with additional officers dedicated solely to enforcing illegal fireworks violations. Throughout the evening, officers responded to several areas where gatherings of upward of 500 people were blocking roadways and setting off illegal fireworks. These incidents required officers to remain on scene for extended periods to help maintain public safety, keep roadways secure and ensure the gatherings dispersed safely.

Despite these challenges, Richmond Police Officers remained focused on their mission. Officers utilized our Drone First Responder (DFR) program to locate illegal fireworks activity, confiscated numerous illegal fireworks, issued six citations for fireworks violations, and recovered a loaded firearm during enforcement operations.

More illegal fireworks and firearm confiscated on July 4th, 2026. Photos: Richmond PD

By collecting video evidence first, Officers were able to focus on specific individuals, also leading to vehicle impounds. Richmond PD is grateful to have access to this outstanding tool which better enables us to safeguard the public and keep your Officers safe. (See video)

The Richmond Police Department will continue to take a proactive approach to illegal fireworks enforcement and criminal activity that threatens the safety of our neighborhoods. Our officers remain committed to protecting the community and using every available resource to keep Richmond safe. We appreciate the many residents who chose to celebrate responsibly and respectfully.

San Pablo Police Officers honored with MADD Award

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San Pablo Police Officers Adam Grabow and Brian Ashley (with plaques) are joined by Chief Brian Bubar (left) and Captain Shawn Ray (right) outside the Blackhawk Museum following the awards ceremony July 9, 2026, and the officers’ plaques and pins. Photo: San Pablo PD

By San Pablo Police Department

Every year, the California Office of Traffic Safety and Mothers Against Drunk Driving recognize law enforcement officers across California for their outstanding efforts in DUI prevention and traffic safety enforcement.

On Thursday, July 9, 2026, SPPD Officer Brian Ashley and Officer Adam Grabow were honored at the MADD Law Enforcement and Prosecutor Recognition Awards Ceremony, held at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville, for their dedication to keeping our roadways safe. This marks Officer Ashley’s second consecutive year receiving recognition from MADD for his commitment to DUI prevention and enforcement.

Over the past year, Officers Ashley and Grabow have helped remove numerous impaired drivers from San Pablo’s streets. Every DUI arrest represents a potential tragedy prevented and lives protected.

Each year, MADD honors law enforcement officers for their impaired‑driving arrest achievements, as well as first responders, prosecutors, probation officers and MADD volunteers for their life‑saving contributions. Each has contributed to putting an end to drunk and drugged driving, supporting the victims of these violent crimes, and preventing underage drinking and other drug use. Every impaired driver removed from the road represents a potential life saved.

The 23152 Pin Award is given to sworn officers who make 25 or more DUI arrests in a single year. The pin’s red color symbolizes victims of impaired‑driving crashes and officers killed or injured in such collisions.

Congratulations, Officers Ashley and Grabow! Thank you for your relentless commitment to the safety of our San Pablo community.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Richmond attempted homicide suspect arrested two days after shooting

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18-year-old Anderson Marroquin of Vallejo

By Richmond Police Department

An attempted homicide suspect has been arrested two days after an incident that occurred on the evening of July 12, 2026, in the 100 block of Harbour Way South.

At approximately 9:41 p.m., Richmond Police officers responded to a report of a traffic collision and a victim suffering from a gunshot wound in the 100 block of Harbour Way South. Officers arrived on scene and found one of the drivers of the traffic collision suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to the hospital and is in stable condition.

During the preliminary investigation, officers determined two vehicles were involved in the minor traffic collision. For unknown reasons, an occupant of one of the vehicles involved in the collision shot at the other involved vehicle, striking the driver of the vehicle. The shooter then fled on foot from the scene of the collision. Officers quickly identified 18-year-old Anderson Marroquin as the suspect in this shooting. Officers also determined that Marroquin had an active PC 187-Murder warrant for his arrest out of the city of Vallejo. The Richmond Police Department Homicide Unit responded and assumed responsibility for the investigation.

On July 14, 2026 (two days after the shooting), Detectives learned Marroquin was in the city of Palo Alto. With the assistance of the Palo Alto Police Department, Marroquin was arrested for PC 664/187 -Attempted Homicide and the Vallejo Police Department’s murder case. The Vallejo Police Department took Marroquin into custody and subsequently booked him into the Solano County Jail on an outstanding warrant. The Attempted Homicide case that occurred in the City of Richmond is being forwarded to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for them to review and file charges.

According to localcrimenews.com, the five-feet, five-inch tall, 220-pound Marroquin is Hispanic.

This arrest highlights the outstanding work and collaboration between the Richmond Police Department, Palo Alto Police Department, and Vallejo Police Department in quickly bringing a violent offender into custody.

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

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Brentwood Officers again receive MADD Award for DUI arrests

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Brentwood Police Officers Tanner Kephart and Brenden O’Malley with their MADD Award plaques and red badges above their nameplates during the 2026 Law Enforcement & Prosecutor Recognition Awards Ceremonies July 9th. Photo: Brentwood PD

By Brentwood Police Department

On Thursday, July 9, 2026, we proudly celebrated Brentwood Police Officer Tanner Kephart and Officer Brenden O’Malley, who were recognized as MADD Award recipients for their outstanding commitment to keeping our community safe.

Each officer earned this prestigious recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) by making more than 25 DUI arrests—removing impaired drivers from our roadways and helping prevent tragedies before they happen. It’s the third time each officer was honored with the award.

Each year, MADD honors law enforcement officers for their impaired‑driving arrest achievements, as well as first responders, prosecutors, probation officers and MADD volunteers for their life‑saving contributions. Each has contributed to putting an end to drunk and drugged driving, supporting the victims of these violent crimes, and preventing underage drinking and other drug use. Every impaired driver removed from the road represents a potential life saved.

The 23152 Pin Award (see above officers’ name badges) is given to sworn officers who make 25 or more DUI arrests in a single year. The pin’s red color symbolizes victims of impaired‑driving crashes and officers killed or injured in such collisions.

The 2026 Law Enforcement & Prosecutor Recognition Awards Ceremonies were held at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville and attended by Chief O’Grodnick and our Command Staff, whose presence reflected the department’s pride in these officers’ accomplishments and support for their dedication to public safety.

This award represents more than a number. It reflects professionalism, vigilance, and an unwavering commitment to protecting lives. Every impaired driver removed from the road is another opportunity to prevent a tragedy and keep our community safe.

Please join us in congratulating Officer Kephart and Officer O’Malley on this well-deserved honor. Thank you both for your exceptional service and commitment to protecting our community.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Richmond Police Marine Unit assists with sinking boat on the Bay

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Photos: Richmond PD

By Richmond Police Department

On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, the Richmond Police Department Marine Unit responded to assist after a vessel sank in the San Francisco Bay, resulting in a tragic loss of life.

According to a CBS News Bay Area report, “One person died and three were missing in the San Francisco Bay on Tuesday after a boat with 20 people on board sank near Alcatraz Island, authorities said.” The person was identified “as Clifford Joseph Boisa, 79, a former Sutter County sheriff’s deputy.”

However, as of Thursday night, “A body found in San Francisco Bay on Thursday afternoon was identified as one of the three passengers missing after the sinking of a boat near Alcatraz Island on Tuesday. San Francisco’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner said the person was 58-year-old Tondra Miller from Sacramento County. She was also known as Tondra Madruga, the office said.”

Our Marine Unit worked alongside our regional law enforcement and public safety partners during the initial response and will continue assisting in the ongoing search efforts.

The Richmond Police Department remains committed to supporting our partner agencies whenever called upon. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected by this tragic incident.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Two firearms recovered during Danville DUI traffic stop

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Photos: Danville PD

By Danville Police Department

In June, a Danville police officer conducted a traffic enforcement stop on a vehicle on Diablo Road. While investigating the driver for a possible DUI, the officer saw a firearm under the driver’s seat. A search of the vehicle found the driver in possession of a Ruger pistol, an unserialized AR-15 style rifle, and a loaded magazine. In addition to the DUI, the suspect was arrested for multiple gun-related charges, including possession of an unserialized firearm and a felon in possession of a firearm. He was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility.

The investigation into this case is ongoing.

Police investigate shooting of two in Richmond

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By Richmond Police Department

As of Wednesday night, July 15, 2026, at 9:00 p.m., Richmond Police Officers are investigating a shooting in the 400 block of Wilson Avenue.

At this time, there are two victims. One victim has been airlifted to a local trauma center for medical treatment.

If you witnessed the incident or have any information that may assist investigators, please contact the Richmond Police Department at (510) 233-1214.

Updates will be provided as information becomes available.

Candidate filing period now open for November General Election

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County Board of Education, College Board, city councils, school boards, special districts

By Dawn Kruger, Community and Media Relations Coordinator, Contra Costa County, Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department 

The Candidate Filing Period for the November 3rd General Election will began, Monday, July 13, 2026, and nomination papers will be available for candidates running for office. The nomination period runs through 5:00 p.m. Friday, August 7, 2026.

A list of offices anticipated for the election can be found here: www.contracostavote.gov/wp-content/uploads/26Nov03_PositionsUpForElection.pdf.  Offices on this list are subject to change as resolutions are still being filed.

Papers for offices that are up for election will be available at the Contra Costa Elections Office, 555 Escobar Street, Martinez. Papers for Municipal Offices will be available from the City Clerk’s office in the city the position represents.

For further information on the General Election and key dates, go to www.contracostavote.gov

“Our Candidate Services team is ready to work with Candidates who will be running in the November General Election,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa Registrar of Voters. “Candidate Filing begins Monday July 13 and our office is here to help potential candidates.”

If an incumbent does not file to run for office by the August 7th deadline, the filing period for that office will extend until 5:00 pm on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. This rule does not apply to incumbents that have reached their term limit and are unable to run again.

Interested candidates can schedule an appointment by emailing candidate.services@vote.cccounty.us or by calling (925) 335-7800. Walk-ins are accepted, but service is subject to the availability of staff. Appointments are available on weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Filing documents and information will be provided to interested constituents at their appointment. The process takes approximately 20 minutes.

Contra Costa businesses receive support from Alameda County Board of Supervisors for ultra-light rail freight and transit system, underground utility “SuperGrid”

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Renderings source: CyberTran International, Inc.

Richmond’s CyberTran International, Inc., EarthGrid, UC Berkeley’s PATH, San Ramon’s Manex announce major achievement signaling new era of freight rail innovation and development, East Bay job creation

Richmond, CA – The Alameda County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, officially and unanimously adopted a resolution in support of moving freight through the county using Richmond-based CyberTran International’s Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit (ULRF&T) system. The ULRF&T system is planned to operate from Oakland to the Central Valley via underground tunnels, and create a next-generation SuperGrid for underground utilities.

The development partnership includes CyberTran International, Richmond-based EarthGrid, U.C. Berkeley Partners in Advanced Transportation Technology (PATH), located at the Richmond Field Station, and the San Ramon-based Corporation for Manufacturing Excellence (Manex).

“Adoption…demonstrates…support for continued exploration and development of the Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit system, associated underground infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of advanced manufacturing and Inland Port facilities that could provide long-term transportation, environmental, and economic benefits to the East Bay region.” – Supervisor Nate Miley

Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley has been a leading advocate for this effort. According to his staff report for the agenda item, #46, “The proposed ULRF&T system is intended to provide a lower-cost, zero-carbon alternative to conventional freight and transit rail systems while reducing truck traffic along the heavily congested Interstate 580 corridor. EarthGrid’s proposed underground SuperGrid technology would provide tunnel infrastructure capable of supporting both freight transportation and modernized utility corridors, while PATH contributes expertise in autonomous vehicle technology. MANEX would assist CyberTran in establishing a manufacturing facility within Alameda County, creating local jobs and supporting advanced manufacturing in the East Bay. As part of this initiative, CyberTran and its partners are also proposing the development of an Inland Port in eastern Alameda County to facilitate the movement of goods between the Port of Oakland and California’s Central Valley.”

“Adoption of the attached resolution demonstrates the County’s support for continued exploration and development of the Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit system, associated underground infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of advanced manufacturing and Inland Port facilities that could provide long-term transportation, environmental, and economic benefits to the East Bay region,” the staff report concludes.

Miley made the motion to adopt the resolution, Board President David Haubert seconded the motion, and it passed on a vote of 5-0. (See AlCo BOS CyberTran Resolution 071426)

“Automobiles have evolved, aviation has evolved, aerospace has evolved, it’s time for rail to evolve. Plus, roving blackouts and wildfires along with tomorrow’s energy and water needs dictate that it’s time to upgrade our outdated utility grid,” said Dexter Vizinau, CEO of CyberTran International.

Key Highlights of the Resolution

  • The initiative seeks to establish a Public Private Partnership Pilot Project.
  • The project will focus on developing and deploying an innovative autonomous rail system designed to efficiently transport freight, reduce costs, and decrease travel times compared to traditional trucking methods.
  • The County’s resolution also supports UC Berkeley PATH’s work to research, develop, and implement an autonomous ULRF&T system.
  • EarthGrid’s plasma boring technology is endorsed for tunnel construction, which will form a SuperGrid for utilities and facilitate the ULRF&T transit network.
  • Manex is supported in creating a CyberTran factory in Alameda County to manufacture and distribute ULRF&T systems globally.
  • This initiative is expected to reduce traffic congestion, particularly along the Highway 580 Corridor.
  • Thousands of well-paying jobs are anticipated for Alameda County residents because of the project.
  • By lessening truck traffic and congestion, the county aims to reduce negative environmental impacts.

Commitment to East Bay Community

The companies and organizations involved have a long history of fostering innovation and supporting skilled individuals, organizations, and businesses. Their strong ties to Alameda and Contra Costa County demonstrate their dedication to quality, creativity and integrity. (See related articles here, here and here)

(See 2:01:30 mark of Board meeting video)

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Note: The publisher of the Herald has a financial interest in CyberTran International, Inc.