Contra Costa Herald

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

San Pablo PD receives ABC state grant to reduce alcohol-related harm

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By San Pablo Police Department

The San Pablo Police Department announces they have been awarded a $68,118 grant from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) to reduce alcohol-related harm in their community.

“This is important to San Pablo in order to increase protection for youth and to address crime at problem locations,” said San Pablo Police Chief Brian Bubar.

The grant is one of nearly 50 awarded in California to local law enforcement agencies through ABC’s Alcohol Policing Partnership (APP) program.

These grants strengthen local law enforcement efforts by combining theirs with ABC agents who have expertise in alcoholic beverage laws to help reduce alcohol-related harm within their community.

“Our Alcohol Policing Partnership program can improve the quality of life in neighborhoods,” said ABC Acting Director Frank Robles. “The communities where the grant program’s resources have been invested have seen a real difference.”

The APP program was created in 1995 to strengthen partnerships between ABC and local law enforcement agencies. The program is designed to keep alcohol away from minors and prevent harm to the community.

The funds will be used to help prevent alcoholic beverage sales to minors and obviously intoxicated patrons, illegal solicitations of alcohol, and other criminal activities such as the sale and possession of illegal drugs.

About the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control

The mission of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control is to provide the highest level of service and public safety to the people of the State through licensing, education, and enforcement.

The San Pablo Police Department is proud to partner with ABC to educate licensees and enforce alcohol laws that keep alcohol away from minors and reduce harm at problem locations. This grant allows SPPD and ABC agents to work together to protect youth and improve neighborhood quality of life.

53-year-old Florida man arrested for stabbing in Brentwood

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Screenshot from the Brentwood PD CitizenRIMS Crime map. Source: Brentwood PD.

At brewhouse that issued statement they’re “heartbroken by the incident”

Suspect charged with attempted murder, faces up to 9 years in state prison

By Chris Bollinger, Community Engagement Officer, Brentwood Police Department

On Friday, October 2, 2026, at approximately 7:58PM, Brentwood officers were dispatched to the 2000 block of Elkins Way for a report of a stabbing. The address is the location of Four Leg Brewing which issued a statement about the incident Saturday morning.

When officers arrived, they quickly located the suspect, an adult male, 53 years old out of Tallahassee, Florida still on scene.  The suspect was taken into custody without incident.  They also located an adult male victim with several stab wounds to his lower torso.  Officers immediately began to provide medical aid to the victim until medical personnel arrived on scene.  The victim was then transported to a local hospital for further treatment.

The male, who is being treated, is expected to survive. All evidence indicates this was an isolated incident.

This investigation is ongoing and we will not be releasing any further information at this time. If you have any additional information regarding this incident, you can call the Brentwood Police Department Dispatch line at (925) 809-7911.

Four Legs Brewing Issues Statement

Statement by Four Legs Brewing posted on their Facebook page Saturday morning, Oct. 3, 2026.

In a post on their Facebook page Saturday morning, Oct. 3rd, Four Legs Brewing issued the following statement: “Our Four Leggs family is heartbroken by the incident that took place here last night. Our thoughts are with the victim and his loved ones, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery. Brentwood Police have confirmed that this was an isolated incident and that the involved is in custody.

“Our staff is safe, but understandably shaken by what happened. We are incredibly grateful to Brentwood PD for their quick response and to the brave patrons who stepped in to help prevent further harm.

“To everyone who has reached out, checked in on our team, and shown us much love and support, thank you. In difficult moments like these, we are reminded of how much our community means to us. Four Legs has always been about bringing people together, building friendships, and creating a place where everyone feels welcome. We are truly grateful for the kindness and support surrounding us.

“Please take care of one another and always lead with kindness.

“With love, The Four Legs Family.”

The brewhouse also changed their hours for Saturday in a later Facebook post which reads, “Due to the incident that occurred last night we are open today 12pm-6pm. Thank you for understanding” and “We apologize for any inconveniences this may cause, but thank you for your understanding.”

The department’s CitizenRIMS Crime map shows the incident is listed as an assault and felony second degree attempted murder. However, the website’s list of arrests has not yet been updated since Thursday, Oct. 1st and the website’s Media Bulletins have not been updated since Sept. 29th.

The suspect is charged with 664/187(A) PC, attempted second-degree murder which is punishable by 5, 7 or 9 years in state prison, and  417(A)(1) PC, described as, “Every person who, except in self-defense, in the presence of any other person, draws or exhibits any deadly weapon whatsoever, other than a firearm, in a rude, angry, or threatening manner, or who in any manner, unlawfully uses a deadly weapon other than a firearm in any fight or quarrel is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for not less than 30 days.” Case Number: 2604025 Incident Number: 2610020104

Bollinger was asked for information about the victim and reiterated, “He is a male.” But that is all he could share at this time, pending notification of family.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

“MELT ICE” Act of 2026 authored by Contra Costa’s Ávila Farías signed by governor

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Prevents former ICE agents with history of misconduct from becoming law enforcement officers in California

Claims participating in ICE operations during Trump’s 2nd term “demonstrates an immorality”

Could be challenged in court, deemed unconstitutional

By Allen D. Payton

On Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law AB 1627, the Misconduct Ends Law-enforcement Trust Act of 2026 (MELT ICE) by Assemblywoman Anamarie Ávila Farías (D-Martinez), which disqualifies officers employed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from being employed as a peace officer in California, if they “engaged in serious misconduct that would have resulted in their certification being revoked…if employed as a peace officer in this state.”

The Assemblywoman represents portions of Contra Costa County in the State Assembly’s 15th District.

While the law makes clear that existing police hiring rules covering serious misconduct by former law enforcement officers now, also apply to officers involved in immigration enforcement, it applies even if the ICE officer was not found guilty of misconduct in their current or previous position.

However, the soon to be new law could be challenged in court because of possible violation of federal labor law and deemed unconstitutional in part due to the “immorality” clause. That clause reads, “Participating in the operations of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on or after January 20, 2025, demonstrates an immorality that California cannot afford to have in its ranks of peace officer.”

On August 30th, the bill passed the state Senate on 29 to 10 party-line vote, and the Assembly by 57 to 16 also on a party-line vote. It was enrolled and presented to the Governor on Sept. 9th at 1 p.m.

Part of Package of Federal Immigration Enforcement Related Bills Signed by Governor

According to a press release from the governor’s office that day, “Governor Newsom signed 21 bills earlier today cementing California’s longstanding efforts to support immigrant communities and reflecting on the state’s response to an intensified federal immigration enforcement environment.”

“Newsom…signed a package of bills related to federal immigration enforcement in California to expand oversight of federal immigration enforcement in California.

“This action builds on years of work by Governor Newsom and the Legislature to support (illegal) immigrant families, protect communities and the economy from reckless immigration actions, strengthen transparency and oversight of detention facilities, and ensure that state resources are focused on public safety and the needs of Californians.

The governor’s office claims the package of bills, “Prohibits ICE officers who have committed serious misconduct on the job from becoming peace officers or public employees in California.”

Included in the bills was AB 1627 by Ávila Farías, described as “Public employment: disqualifications”, and known as the MELT ICE Act.

Legislative Counsel’s Digest of AB 1627

According to the Legislative Counsel’s Digest, “Existing (state) law specifies circumstances that disqualify a person from holding office or being employed as a peace officer, including, among other things, any person previously employed in law enforcement in any state or United States territory or by the federal government whose name is listed in any of specified indexes whose certification as a law enforcement officer in that jurisdiction was revoked for misconduct or who, while employed as a law enforcement officer, engaged in serious misconduct that would have resulted in their certification being revoked by the commission if employed as a peace officer in this state.

“This bill would specify that, for purposes of the disqualification circumstances described above, the terms ‘employed in law enforcement’ and ‘law enforcement officer’ include a law enforcement officer employed in any state or United States territory or by the federal government who engages in immigration enforcement, as provided.”

Bill Text Claims Participating in ICE Operations During Trump’s Second Term “Demonstrates an Immorality”

According to the Bill Text in, “SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

“(a) Beginning in 2025, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have terrorized California residents, United States citizens and noncitizens alike, through untargeted arrests and brutality based on nothing more than a person’s racial appearance, language spoken, means of earning a living, or exercise of First Amendment-protected expression.

“(b) Beginning in 2025, the United States Department of Homeland Security has recruited peace officers to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement with the promise of being unrestrained in the manner in which officers engage with civilians or by the laws of the State of California.

“(c) Participating in the operations of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on or after January 20, 2025, demonstrates an immorality that California cannot afford to have in its ranks of peace officers whose duties include interacting with the public.”

Further according to the Bill Text, “…except as provided in subparagraph (B), any person previously employed as a sworn law enforcement officer or individual contractor, and personally engaged in immigration enforcement,” is “disqualified from holding office as a peace officer or being employed as a peace officer of the state, county, city, city and county, or other political subdivision, whether with or without compensation, and is disqualified from any office or employment by the state, county, city, city and county, or other political subdivision, whether with or without compensation, which confers upon the holder or employee the powers and duties of a peace officer.”

Subparagraph B (ii) reads, “‘Immigration enforcement’ includes any and all efforts to investigate, enforce, or assist in the investigation or enforcement of any federal civil immigration law, and also includes any and all efforts to investigate, enforce, or assist in the investigation or enforcement of any federal criminal immigration law that penalizes a person’s presence in, entry, or reentry to, or employment in, the United States.”

However, the bill “does not prohibit or restrict any governmental entity or official from sending to, or receiving from, federal immigration authorities information regarding the citizenship or immigration status, lawful or unlawful, of an individual, or from requesting from federal immigration authorities immigration status information, lawful or unlawful, of any individual, or from maintaining or exchanging that information with any other federal, state, or local governmental entity.” That means existing law enforcement officers can cooperate with ICE within limits of California’s sanctuary state laws.

Assemblywoman Ávila Farías speaks about her bill, AB1627 on the Assembly Floor On May 27, 2026. Video screenshot source: CalMatters

Ávila Farías Comments About Bill, Signing by Governor

A press release issued earlier this year, after the State Assembly passed her bill, reads, “On the Assembly Floor, Assemblymember Ávila Farías emphasized that ICE enforcement has created fear across California—impacting both citizens and immigrants alike—and legislation is needed to proactively safeguard our communities and critical spaces.”

She is further quoted in a FOX11 Los Angeles report as saying in a statement, “California’s peace officers…must be guardians of constitutional rights, not participants in their erosion.” and “argued that participating in ICE operations during this period ‘demonstrates an immorality that California cannot afford to have in its ranks.’”

In her brief speech on the Assembly Floor on May 27th, Avila Farias said, “Communities are safer when we are policed by people who are committed to protecting the public rather than kidnapping them.”

During a presentation before the Assembly Standing Committee on Public Safety in April, she said, “Frankly, I don’t want my kids or anyone else’s counting on people who flaunt the rule of the law.” Ávila Farías also claimed, “this bill, does not have any legal issues, and challenges, because we’re simply doing a modest expansion of existing law in a way to protect our community members and holding the highest regard of what our law enforcement professionals. It also is not honing into the individuals that are doing their jobs to the letter of the law. This is protecting vulnerable community populations…”

She repeated her remarks before the state Senate Standing Committee on Public Safety in June saying, “AB 1627 ensures that immigration enforcement personnel are disqualified from becoming a peace officer in California if they have committed misconduct in their prior roles. This bill is about restoring public trust and holding federal law enforcement to the same standards as any other peace officer in California.”

About the governor signing her bill Ávila Farías said, “Our kids deserve role models in uniform, not individuals tied to fear and intimidation. AB 1627 is about accountability, integrity, and reducing harm before it happens. With the signing of the MELT ICE Act of 2026, California sends a clear message: Federal agents who have disregarded constitutional rights are not to be entrusted with peace enforcement roles in our state. Thank you, Governor Newsom, for your commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting our communities.”

Ávila Farías’ office issued a press release about the bill’s signing.

“Today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed my bill to prevent former ICE employees with documented histories of misconduct from becoming peace officers in California.

“AB 1627, the Misconduct Ends Law-Enforcement Trust Act of 2026, started with people in my community speaking up. One year ago, at a No Kings Rally in Concord, our community came together and spoke out about the fear many immigrant families were experiencing. That community activism helped inspire this legislation, and I am proud that their voices helped lead to meaningful change.

“AB 1627 was not written overnight. It was the result of many conversations, a lot of listening, and working with people who care deeply about public safety and accountability.

“At the heart of this bill is a simple principle: if someone has a documented history of misconduct, they should not be able to leave one agency and simply put on another uniform without accountability.

“I am honored and humbled to have played a part in creating one more barrier to prevent individuals who have abused their authority from becoming peace officers in California. This is about protecting public trust and making sure the people entrusted with a badge are held to a high standard.

“I want to thank Governor Newsom, my legislative colleagues, the community partners who stood with me, and the law-enforcement professionals who worked with us throughout this process. “This is what people power looks like. A community raised its voice, we listened, we worked together, and we turned that vision into law.

“AB 1627 takes effect January 1, 2027.”

Opposed by Statewide Police Organization

According to a report on MSN.com, “The Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) has voiced opposition to the bill. ‘This bill is unnecessary, duplicative and it jeopardizes qualified immunity for California employees,’ stated David Mastagni on behalf of PORAC.

The report further claims, “Critics argue the measure represents ‘guilty by association’ and could worsen existing staffing shortages in California’s police departments and schools. According to data from PORAC, law enforcement agencies throughout California have lost over 3,300 sworn officers since 2020, with an average of 10% of policing roles remaining unfilled.”

Could Be Challenged in Court, Deemed Unconstitutional

However, the new law could be ruled unconstitutional if challenged in court as questions have arisen whether the state can legally enforce a lifetime ban on a specific class of former federal employees without violating federal labor protections or constitutional due process.

According to a report by iHeart Radio in February, “Legal experts question whether California can legally enforce a lifetime ban on a specific class of federal employees without violating federal labor protections or constitutional due process rights.”

Inclusion of the “immorality” clause could give further basis for a court challenge.

Majority of $10,000 in stolen tools from new Brentwood fire station construction site recovered

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Stolen tools from Brentwood Fire Station recovered. Photo: Brentwood PD

License plate reader identifies suspect vehicle

By Brentwood Police Department

On September 27, 2026, at approximately 11:30 a.m., two suspects forced entry into the Fire Station construction site in downtown Brentwood on First Street and stole more than $10,000 worth of tools from a secured electrician’s toolbox.

A BPD patrol officer conducted a very thorough investigation, quickly obtained surveillance footage, and a detailed list of the stolen property. While construction site cameras captured the suspect vehicle, no license plate was visible.

Using License Plate Reader (LPR) technology, a BPD detective was able to identify the suspect vehicle. Within hours of the theft being reported, our partners at the Fremont Police Department located and stopped the suspect vehicle and contacted BPD Investigations.

BPD detectives continued the investigation and, within just two days of the reported theft, recovered the majority of the stolen tools and returned them to their rightful owner.

Screenshot of surveillance video of suspect’s car leaving the new downtown Brentwood fire station construction site and the car located with the help of Fremont Police. Photos: Brentwood PD

For the victim, a female engineer working here in our community, the recovery of her tools meant much more than simply getting back stolen property. These are essential tools that support her work and career, and returning them helps her continue pursuing her success while working on projects right here in our city. She expressed her overwhelming appreciation for the officers and detectives who worked quickly to recover what she had lost.

This case is a great example of how good police work, technology, and strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies can quickly make a difference for our community.

Thank you to our patrol officers, BPD Investigations team, and our friends at the Fremont Police Department for their assistance in getting these stolen items back where they belong.

Argument leads to shooting of three at BART transfer platform in Pittsburg

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Two passengers inside the front car of an eBART train lie on the floor, while another passenger stands near the front with what appears to be a cell phone in his hand. The person who took the photo said that man was not the shooter. BART Police were on scene investigating at the transfer platform in Pittsburg following the shootings. Photos source chose to remain anonymous.

9/29 & 30/26 UPDATES: BART Police ID suspect in custody, charged with 6 felonies, 3 misdemeanors, being held on $160,00 bail; previously arrested twice in 2024, once in 2025

By Allen D. Payton

Three people were shot Monday evening, Sept. 28, 2026, while inside a BART vehicle at the transfer platform in Pittsburg and one of two suspects is in custody.

According to a BART news release, at approximately 5:25 pm on Monday, September 28, BART Police responded to the BART to Antioch transfer platform in Pittsburg after an argument between two people turned into a shooting.

Three victims with gunshot wounds were transferred to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.

BART Police apprehended one suspect nearby. Police continue to search for a second suspect.

9/29/26 UPDATE: BART Police officers on their regular patrol of Pittsburg/Bay Point Station intercepted one suspect, 22-year-old Xavier Johnson of Pittsburg, on the trackway as he fled the scene. Police continue to search for a second suspect.

The trains remained at the transfer station with passengers on board according to people waiting for some of them at the Bay Point Station.

According to a BART rider, “3 shot, 1 shooter running off the tracks at the transfer point. Asked if he was inside a regular BART train or an eBART vehicle he responded, “It was the eBART and it happened right at the transfer stop.”

“It took 20 mins for police and EMS to show up. We then got a police escort to the last two stops,” the passenger continued. “The shooter ran onto the tracks and they didn’t catch him. He was running towards the Pittsburg Center Station. That’s not him though (in the photo inside the vehicle). We were yelling at the driver to close the doors.”

“So, they ushered the (passengers from the) other car into our car and we got more information. The guy who got shot in the armpits was the intended target,” the passenger shared. “All this happened in the 2nd car. I was in the 1st car.”

The Bay Point BART Station was closed following the shootings then reopened about 7:05 p.m. to trains from the North Concord/Martinez Station on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. Photos by Allen D. Payton

At 6:30 p.m. the Bay Point BART Station was closed and the gates to the entrance were down. They were reopened at 7:05 p.m.

About that same time, train service between North Concord/Martinez and Pittsburg/Bay Point was restored. It shortened the distance of the bus bridge provided by Tri Delta Transit. Some passengers stuck at the North Concord/Martinez Station and heading east resorted to taking Uber rides to get back to the Antioch BART Station. For those headed to the Pittsburg Center they had to travel to Antioch, exit the bus and take a train back to Pittsburg Center.

Tri Delta Transit provided free bus bridge and shuttle service first from the Bay Point Station to the Antioch Station. Photos by Allen D. Payton

BART Police crime scene technicians have been working diligently to get the BART to Antioch platform released for service. The BART news release and X post at 7:27 p.m. claimed, “We believe that will occur this evening.”

Exclusive to the Herald: BART Police investigate the shootings at the transfer station in Pittsburg Monday night. Photo by Allen D. Payton

By 8:05 p.m., BART Police Evidence Technicians and Critical Asset Control Officers were still on scene working at the transfer station.

See video footage by Art Ray of Bay News Video.

9/30/26 UPDATE: According to localcrimenews.com, Johnson’s middle name is Rondell, he is Black and was previously arrested twice in 2024, on March 22nd for vandalism: paint and unauthorized entry of a dwelling-house and on Dec. 13th for shoplifting that did not exceed $950. He was arrested again on April 26, 2025, for warrants or holds only.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the six-foot, one-inch tall, 220-pound Johnson is listed as Non-Hispanic, but also as Black, was born on June 1, 2004, and is being held in the Martinez Detention Facility on $160,000 bail. He is charged with six felonies including three for assault with a firearm, one each for willfully discharging a firearm or BB device in a grossly negligent manner that could result in injury or death, carrying a loaded firearm with the intent to commit a felony, known as “armed criminal action,” and the manufacture, import, sell, offer for sale, give, lend, buy, or receive a large‑capacity magazine. Johnson is also charged with three misdemeanors including for carrying a concealed upon a person any pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed; trespassing on railroad property in a way that interferes with, interrupts, or hinders — or could interfere with, interrupt, or hinder — the safe and efficient operation of a locomotive, railway car, or train; and carrying a loaded firearm on a person or in a vehicle.

Pittsburg Police Department invites community to “Palabras con la Policía” Sept. 30

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El Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg invita a la comunidad a “Palabras con la Policía”

By Toni Baldazo, Community Engagement Officer, City of Pittsburg

The Pittsburg Police Department invites community members to join officers for Palabras con la Policía on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The event will be held on the City Hall Lawn at 65 Civic Avenue.

Palabras con la Policía, which means “words with the police” is a community focused event designed to bring Pittsburg residents and officers together in an informal and welcoming setting. Community members are encouraged to stop by, meet the officers who serve their neighborhoods, ask questions, learn about available community resources, and, as the event name says, have a conversation. This event is multilingual, catering especially to Spanish speakers as part of the Pittsburg Police Department’s continued commitment to building strong relationships with the Pittsburg community through open communication and positive interactions outside of traditional calls for service.

“Some of the most valuable conversations we have with our community happen outside of an emergency or a call for service,” said Pittsburg Police Chief Phil Galer. “Palabras con la Policía gives our officers and community members an opportunity to get to know one another, ask questions, share information, and continue building the relationships that help make Pittsburg a stronger community.”

Light refreshments will be provided at this free event, and no registration is required. Residents of all ages are encouraged to attend.

For additional information, contact Officer Salazar at (925) 252-4248 or ssalazar@pittsburgca.gov. Additional information is also available through the Pittsburg Police Department social media platforms.

El Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg invita a la comunidad a “Palabras con la Policía”

El Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg invita a la comunidad a participar en Palabras con la Policía el miércoles 30 de septiembre de 2026, de 4:30 p. m. a 6:30 p. m. El evento se llevará a cabo en el jardín del Ayuntamiento, ubicado en 65 Civic Avenue.

Palabras con la Policía es un evento comunitario que reúne a los residentes de Pittsburg y a los agentes en un ambiente informal y acogedor. Se invita a los asistentes a conocer a los agentes que prestan servicio en sus vecindarios, hacer preguntas, informarse sobre los recursos disponibles para la comunidad y, como indica el nombre del evento,

conversar. El evento será multilingüe, con especial atención a las personas que hablan español. Forma parte del compromiso continuo del Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg de fortalecer sus vínculos con la comunidad mediante la comunicación abierta y las interacciones positivas fuera de las llamadas de servicio.

“Algunas de las conversaciones más valiosas que tenemos con nuestra comunidad ocurren fuera de una emergencia o una llamada de servicio”, dijo Phil Galer, jefe de la Policía de Pittsburg. “Palabras con la Policía brinda a nuestros agentes y a los miembros de la comunidad la oportunidad de conocerse, hacer preguntas, compartir información y seguir construyendo las relaciones que hacen de Pittsburg una comunidad más unida”.

Se ofrecerán refrigerios ligeros. El evento es gratuito y no requiere inscripción. Se invita a asistir a residentes de todas las edades.

Para obtener más información, comuníquese con el agente Salazar al (925) 252-4248 o a ssalazar@pittsburgca.gov. También encontrará información en las redes sociales del Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg.

 

Two wanted suspects arrested at Hercules apartment complex

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Alameda County Sheriff’s Deputies and police from Hercules and other agencies respond to the Dylan Apartment Homes in Hercules where the suspects were sleeping and then arrested. Photo: Hercules PD

Muti-agency effort assists Alameda County Sheriff’s Office

By Hercules Police Department

Hercules Police Department officers recently assisted the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office with the arrest of two wanted suspects.

Upon locating the suspects in a vehicle at the Dylan Apartment Complex on John Muir Parkway, officers observed that both suspects were asleep and that one had a pistol resting on his lap.

Recognizing the potential for a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation, officers developed and implemented a tactical plan centered on time, distance, communication, and de-escalation. Through patience, coordination and sound police tactics, the situation was resolved safely, and both suspects were taken into custody without further incident.

This operation was a strong example of the importance of interagency cooperation and teamwork. We extend our sincere appreciation to our allied agency partners who assisted:

  • Vallejo Police Department — K-9
  • Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office
  • San Pablo Police Department — SWAT
  • Pinole Police Department
  • Pittsburg Police Department

The hard work, professionalism, and dedication of frontline law enforcement officers can never be overstated. Kudos to every officer and deputy who worked together to bring this incident to a safe resolution.

Efforts have been made to reach the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office and Hercules Police Department for more details, including the names of the suspects and what they were wanted for, as no police activity is shown on the department’s CitizenRims crime map for that location since August 1st, nor are addresses included in the list of arrests dating back to Aug. 28th. Please check back later for any updates.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Pittsburg drug dealer arrested with heroin, meth, prohibited gun

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Items seized from the suspect during the arrest. Photos: Pittsburg PD

By Pittsburg Police Department

Last week, Pittsburg PD’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) served a search warrant at a residence here in town.

The warrant was the result of a collaborative investigation with an outside law enforcement agency, combined with some solid investigative work by our SIU detectives.

During the search, detectives located nearly a quarter-pound of suspected heroin, additional suspected methamphetamine, a firearm and cash.

The suspect was arrested and, as it turns out, was already prohibited from possessing firearms. Apparently, the “prohibited” part wasn’t clear enough. We helped clear that up.

More importantly, another suspected drug dealer is off the street, a firearm is out of the hands of someone who legally shouldn’t have had it, and hopefully the neighbors can enjoy a little less traffic at all hours of the day and night.

No more customers. No more doorbell. No more neighborhood pharmacy.

Nice work, SIU.

Contra Costa DA’s investigation report clears cops in death of Brentwood woman following 2025 arrest

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Photo source: Yolanda Bustos Ramirez’s obituary.

Becton says 72-year-old Yolanda Bustos Ramirez “died from a stroke and other health related issues” Oct. 3, 2025, while in the hospital and, “No further action will be taken in this case.”

Shares details about inquest jury’s split vote on findings

By Allen D. Payton

According to Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office PIO Ted Asregadoo, “The Contra Costa DA’s Office has released its full report on the investigation into the death of Yolanda Bustos Ramirez, following a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding her death. This release reflects our office’s commitment to transparency in matters that affect the community we serve.”

As previously reported, 72-year-old Yolanda Bustos Ramirez, died on Oct. 3, 2025, following her arrest during a family dispute. She was in the hospital and not in police custody at the time of her death. But her family is blaming police for causing her death and have filed a wrongful death lawsuit. A letter to the City from the family’s attorney claims she was “violently arrested by multiple Brentwood Police Officers.”

According to the Department, “On Friday, September 26, 2025, at around 11:00 a.m., Brentwood Police officers responded to a call involving a family dispute, during which Yolanda Ramirez, approximately 70 years old, was placed under a citizen’s arrest at the request of a family member. When officers arrived, Ms. Ramirez attempted to flee the scene. Officers detained Ms. Ramirez, and after being secured in a patrol vehicle, officers noticed she appeared to be having a medical issue, and they immediately contacted medical personnel. Ms. Ramirez was promptly released from police custody and transported by medical personnel to a local hospital.

“Several days later, the Police Department was notified that Ms. Ramirez was still hospitalized, her condition had worsened, and that she was not expected to survive. In accordance with Contra Costa County Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol, the Brentwood Police Department immediately notified the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, and their agency initiated an independent investigation into the incident.”

Video screenshot shows Yolanda Ramirez in the back of a Brentwood Police car following her arrest on Nov. 5, 2025, included in the report with descriptions. Source: CCDA

In February, Brentwood Police released “a community briefing video consisting of in-car and body-worn camera footage, as well as 911 audio” of Ramirez’s arrest. They reported, “the family of Ms. Ramirez was provided with an opportunity to privately view the video prior to its release to the public.” (See related article)

Then, in July, a Contra Costa Sheriff-Coroner’s inquest jury found her death to be an accident. “The inquest presented the facts of the incident, including witness testimony, medical information, and body-worn camera footage, to a jury tasked with determining the manner of death: natural causes, accident, at the hands of another, or suicide,” Asregadoo shared. (See related article)

Investigation Report & Timeline

The investigation report includes audio and video footage of both police body cam, dash cam and a home surveillance camera, interviews with the involved police officers, Bustos Ramirez’s family members and a Con Fire paramedic, as well as medical records, autopsy report and the results of the Sheriff-Coroner’s Inquest Jury findings.

Asregadoo’s press release provided the following additional details:

Brentwood Dispatch Receives a Call

On September 26, 2025, at 10:37 a.m., a family member called Brentwood police to report a disturbance involving Ramirez, who was outside a residence banging on the front door and had broken a coffee mug on the porch. The family member, who is Ramirez’s sister, told dispatch that Ramirez had been confrontational in the past and that she feared Ramirez would become combative again.

Officers Aaron Peachman and Danielle Tjhia arrived at approximately 10:49 a.m. and found Ramirez standing in the driveway. The family member told Officer Peachman that a dispute arose over who was responsible for driving their brother to a medical appointment. When the family member took their brother back inside, Ramirez banged on the door and broke a coffee mug on the porch. The family member told officers she wanted to press charges for property damage.

Ramirez’s Arrest

As Officer Peachman explained the process of a citizen’s arrest, Ramirez attempted to leave the scene. Despite repeated commands to sit down and statements that she was not free to leave, Ramirez refused the officer’s directives. When officers took hold of her wrists and attempted to guide her away from her car, she said “stop” and continued to resist. Officer Peachman advised her she was under arrest and ordered her to place her hands behind her back. When she refused, officers moved her hands behind her back, handcuffed her, and escorted her to the patrol vehicle.

At the patrol car, Ramirez pulled away as officers attempted to search her pockets and repeated instructions to enter the patrol vehicle. Officers Peachman and Tjhia held Ramirez by the upper arms and walked her toward the open rear door. Approximately two to three feet from the door,

Ramirez dropped to her knees and struck the left side of her face against the vehicle’s interior, crying out in pain. She appeared alert afterward, with no visible injury. When she did not respond to further requests to stand and enter the car, officers lifted her to her feet and placed her across the back seat. As Officer Peachman guided her feet inside and closed the door, Ramirez pushed her leg against it. When he closed it firmly, Ramirez’s body shifted forward and the top of her head struck the closed door on the opposite side of the vehicle. She did not react audibly, nor were there visible signs of being hurt.

Medical Distress in the Patrol Vehicle

At approximately 11:04 a.m., Ramirez shifted to an upright position in the back seat and appeared alert. She repeatedly asked to be uncuffed, given water, and allowed to call family. After Officer Peachman stepped away at 11:14 a.m., her condition declined. As captured on the interior video camera in the patrol vehicle, her breathing grew slower and shallower, and her speech became incomplete and incoherent. When Officer David Smith checked on her at 11:18 a.m., she had difficulty understanding his questions, though she was able to state her name. After several more minutes of attempted interaction, officers called for medical assistance at 11:21 a.m. While medical responders were en route, Ramirez vomited in the vehicle.

Transport to Hospital and Death Days Later

Paramedics arrived at 11:29 a.m. and transported Ramirez first to Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center and then to John Muir Health Walnut Creek Medical Center, where she was diagnosed with an intraparenchymal hemorrhage – which is bleeding in the right basal ganglia, deep inside the brain. She received medical treatment for several days before she died on October 3rd.

Autopsy Findings

On October 4th, 2025, Forensic Pathologist Dr. James Caruso conducted an autopsy of Ramirez and concluded that her death was caused by a cerebrovascular accident, or stroke, with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and obesity as other significant preexisting conditions.

On October 26th, 2025, a second forensic pathologist, Dr. Matthias Okoye, conducted a private autopsy of Ramirez and concluded that her death was due to “multiple blunt force trauma and asphyxiation with complications all due to, and as a consequence of, police restraint.”

Additional Witness Account

On February 2nd, 2026, a resident who lived near the scene of the incident provided a statement to a Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office inspector describing his observations of the arrest. The witness stated that he saw a male officer strike Ramirez three times in the back of the head with his elbow or forearm, driving her face into the closed rear passenger window as she stood next to the patrol vehicle. This account was incorporated into the investigation’s overall analysis, but a review of all witness statements and body-worn camera video capturing the entirety of the police contact with Ramirez found that the use of force described by the additional witness did not occur.

The officers “had the Legal Authority to detain/arrest Yolanda Ramirez” and “used objectively reasonable force” – Contra Costa DA Diana Becton

District Attorney’s Findings

The investigation report includes audio and video footage, interviews with the involved police officers, Bustos Ramirez’s family members and a Con Fire paramedic, as well as medical records, autopsy report and the results of the Sheriff-Coroner’s Inquest Jury findings.

DA Diana Becton’s Executive Summary provides more details about the results of the inquest jury writing, “The jury returned a split verdict on the case. Seven members of the jury determined that the cause of death was by ‘natural causes’, and eight members of the jury determined the cause of death was by ‘accident.’ None of the jurors concluded that the death was ‘at the hands of another’ or by ‘Suicide’.’”

Becton’s Executive Summary and Conclusion states, “In applying the law and the California District Attorney’s Uniform Crime Charging Standards to the present case, the CCCDAO finds the following:

  1. As a matter of law, Officers Peachman and Tjhia had the Legal Authority to detain/arrest Yolanda RAMIREZ.
  2. Officers Peachman and Tjhia used objectively reasonable force during the arrest of Yolanda RAMIREZ and there is no evidence that excess force was applied.
  3. While incredibly tragic, Yolanda RAMIREZ died from a stroke and other health related issues, as opposed to police use of force.

“Based on the aforementioned findings, no further action will be taken in this case.”

Read the complete findings here: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/92820/LEIFI-Final-Report-Yolanda-Bustos-Ramirez.

Couple with stolen mail arrested during Pleasant Hill traffic stop

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A Pleasant Hill Police Officer searches through the suspects’ bags to find stolen mail for which the couple was arrested following a traffic stop Sept. 18, 2026. All photos: Pleasant Hill PD

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

On Friday, September 18, 2026, during the early morning hours, Officers Margiotta and Munoz engaged in proactive enforcement.

They located a white Mercedes-Benz without license plates in the vicinity of Contra Costa Boulevard and Dexter Drive. Subsequently, they initiated a traffic enforcement stop. The vehicle was occupied by two individuals, a man and a woman.

During the traffic stop Officers Margiotta and Munoz discovered the stolen mail early Friday, Sept. 18, 2026.

The investigation revealed that the driver was operating a vehicle with a suspended license. Officers also discovered mail that did not belong to either the driver or occupant. The vehicle was impounded, and both occupants were subsequently arrested for violation of California Penal Code § 530.5(e), which prohibits the possession of another person’s identifying information or mail under circumstances involving identity theft.

Great proactive police work by our officers to identify and address suspicious activity!

Unfortunately, the department’s CitizenRIMS does not show the incident on the map nor names of the suspects in the list of arrests, and the latest updates are from Sunday, Sept. 13. An effort to reach a spokesperson in the department for more details was unsuccessful prior to publication time.

Please check back later for any updates.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.