Contra Costa Herald

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

Walnut Creek police warn residents of “courier scam”

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By Walnut Creek Police Department

We want to share an urgent message regarding a prolific scam targeting our residents. The scam is generally referred to as a “courier” scam, and preys on victims through manipulation and technology. The scam employs several methods, to include:

– Receiving a pop-up window on your computer alerting you to fraud or a hack. The pop-up will typically urge you to click on a button within the window or ask you to call tech support (a phone number provided by the suspects). Once you do these two things, the suspects have access to your computer, as well as the ability to manipulate you over the phone.

– Receiving an email alerting you to a purchase you did not make (commonly PayPal), and then requesting that you call tech support, which is connecting the suspects to you.

– Receiving an alert that your computer is vulnerable to viruses and is unprotected. Once you follow the prompts to pay for current protection, you are contacted by the suspect informing you that you overpaid, an excessive refund will be issued to you, at which point you are responsible for paying them back the difference. (This is common using PayPal).

– Receiving a call from someone posing as a family member or friend, stating they’ve been arrested or had an accident, and need cash quickly.

– Receiving an alert that your money has been used for criminal activity and that you are under investigation, after which you need to deliver your money to the suspects so they can “secure” it.

Almost all of these scams include the following techniques:

– You will be required to go to the bank to withdraw a large sum of cash, after which you will be instructed to meet with a “courier” or driver to hand over the cash.

– The suspects contacting you on the phone will be highly aggressive, controlling your movements through manipulation, and may even threaten you or your family.

– The suspects will attempt to avoid apprehension by using spoofed email addresses and phone numbers, and will state they work for major financial institutions and government entities.

– The suspects will ensure you’re following instructions by insisting you stay on the phone with them, FaceTime them, and photograph cash you intend to deliver to them.

It is WCPD’s first priority that its community members do not fall victim to crimes such as these. If you are contacted through any of the above means by people employing these tactics, simply disregard pop-ups and emails, do not click on anything within them, and do not call tech support phone numbers offered within these messages. If there are people in your family who may be vulnerable to these scams, please have conversations with them regarding tech and financial safety.

Thank you for reading and stay safe.

Police seek Daly City man as person of interest in series of Brentwood auto vandalism cases

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Person of interest Arpy Yap and the Volkswagen Touareg he’s known to drive. Photos: Brentwood PD

Targets solo females in parking lots in ruse

By Brentwood Police Department

The Brentwood Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance regarding a series of vandalism incidents that have occurred throughout the City of Brentwood.

The individual in the photo has been identified as 48-year-old Arpy Yap of Daly City. Yap is suspected of targeting solo female victims in parking lots. In each incident, the victims returned to their vehicles to discover their tires had been vandalized or deflated. Yap reportedly appeared shortly after, offering assistance in exchange for money.

Yap is known to drive a blue Volkswagen Touareg with a roof rack.

We are releasing this photo in an effort to identify any additional victims or witnesses who may have information related to these incidents.

This is also being shared as a public safety advisory. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911. Callers may remain anonymous.

Knife-wielding man killed in Richmond officer involved shooting

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Angel Montano. Source: GoFundMe

ID’d as a U.S. Marine reserve officer

By Allen D. Payton

The Richmond Police Department announced that on Monday, August 4, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Richmond Police responded to a 911 call about a man armed with knives threatening to kill people inside a home in the 400 block of 1st Street.

When officers arrived, they heard a disturbance inside. When officers announced their presence, they were confronted by a subject who came to the door armed with at least one edged weapon. During the confrontation, two officers discharged their firearms, and the subject, unfortunately, suffered fatal injuries at the scene.

According to a KRON4 TV news report, the man was identified as 27-year-old Angel Montano who “served in the U.S. Marines as a reserve officer “

Per protocol, the Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol has been activated. The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office is leading the investigation into this incident.

Investigators are in the early stages of this investigation. The Richmond Police Department is committed to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation. Updates will be shared as new information becomes available on the Richmond Police Department’s website.

A GoFundMe page was set up by Liz Montaño to raise funds to cover funeral and burial expenses with the following message:

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and tragic passing of our beloved cousin, Angel Montano, at just 27 years old.

Angel was a proud U.S. Marine, a devoted son, brother, father and to many a loyal friend. Angel brought light and strength into every room he entered. His unexpected loss has left our family heartbroken, and we are doing everything we can to give him the memorial he deserves.

We’re raising funds to help cover funeral and burial expenses, and to support his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to give, sharing this page and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers means just as much.

Thank you for honoring Angel’s memory with us. Your support brings us comfort and strength.

-The Montano Family

Con el corazón en la mano, compartimos la repentina y trágica pérdida de nuestro querido primo, Angel Montano, a tan solo 27 años de edad.

Angel fue un orgulloso miembro del U.S Marine, un hijo, hermano y padre devoto, y un amigo leal para muchos. Angel iluminaba cada cuarto donde entraba con su carisma y sonrisa. Su partida inesperada ha dejado a nuestra familia con el corazón destrozado, y estamos haciendo todo lo posible para darle el homenaje que se merece.

Estamos recaudando fondos para ayudar a cubrir los gastos del funeral y entierro, así como para apoyar a sus seres queridos en este momento tan difícil. Cualquier donación, sin importar la cantidad, es profundamente agradecida. Si no puedes donar, compartir esta página y mantener a nuestra familia en tus pensamientos y oraciones es igualmente agrdecido.

Gracias por honrar la memoria de Angel con nosotros. Su apoyo nos brinda consuelo y fortaleza.

La Familia Montano”

Brentwood man arrested during Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force operation

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Ty Leighton was arrested for child sex crimes on July 29, 2025. Photos: Brentwood PD

Led by Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department with assist from Brentwood, Orinda, Martinez PD’s; police seek additional victims

Was on felony probation with felony warrant for burglary, had 10 previous arrests dating to 2017

By Brentwood Police Department

As part of a week-long operation led by the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force hosted by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and supported by the Brentwood Police Department and 13 additional agencies significant progress was made in protecting children from online exploitation.

During the operation, Detectives from the Brentwood Police Department, Orinda Police Department, and Martinez Police Department arrested 29-year-old Ty Oliver Leighton (born 9/26/1995) on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, for arranging to meet a 13-year-old minor with the intent to engage in lewd and lascivious acts, among other related charges.

Leighton, who is currently on felony probation, also had a felony warrant for a commercial burglary that occurred in the city of Brentwood.

Aerial photo of Ty Leighton’s arrest.

We are releasing Leighton’s photo in an effort to identify any additional victims. If you have any information or believe you may have had contact with him, please contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911. Callers may remain anonymous.

We would also like to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and all the partnering agencies that contributed to this operation.

According to localcrimenews.com, Leighton has a  history of arrests dating back to 2017 and is charged with attempting lewd acts with a child, arranging a meeting with a child for lewd purposes, attempting to contact a minor with intent to commit an offense and revocation of probation.

His previous arrests by multiple agencies including Napa PD, Napa County and San Joaquin Sheriff’s Departments, and Antioch PD for crimes including inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, receiving  known stolen property over $200, addict in possession of firearm possession of ammunition, theft, receiving or concealing stolen property, vandalism and trespassing upon private property after notice by peace officer that property is not open to the particular person or failure to leave said property upon request.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department, the five-feet-nine-inch tall, 150-pound Leighton is Hispanic, being held in West County Detention Facility on no bail, and his next court appearance is scheduled for August 8, 2025, at 8:30 AM in the Martinez Superior Court Department 5.

40-year-old man shot in Oakley Friday morning

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Victim expected to recover; multiple bullet holes in nearby homes; police seek suspect

By Danielle Navarro, Assistant City Manager, City of Oakley

On Friday August 1, 2025, at 10:30 AM the Oakley Police Department was dispatched to the area of Macadamia Lane for a reported shooting. Oakley Officers found the victim at the AM/PM gas station at Main Street and Cypress Road. Additional officers responded to Macadamia Lane.

Officers found the victim to be a 40-year-old male with a gunshot wound to his back. Oakley Officers treated the victim until relieved by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District personnel. The victim was transported to a local trauma center via ambulance and he is expected to recover.

The crime scene was located in the 4400 block of Macadamia Lane, and it was marked by numerous spent shell casings. During an area search, Oakley Officers discovered two nearby residences that had been struck by bullets. At one residence a bullet went through the fireplace; the other residence had at least three bullets go through a sliding glass door. A woman inside that residence sustained a minor cut from the broken glass.

This is an active investigation with Oakley Police Detectives on the scene. Detectives are specifically looking into any relationships between the involved parties.

“This investigation is our top priority right now and the safety of the Oakley community is of paramount importance to us,” Chief Paul Beard stated. “We are utilizing all of our resources to identify a suspect in this case. I will update the community as developments occur.”

Contra Costa DA Becton’s campaign announces support for her recall

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Source: Diana Becton for District Attorney campaign

CCC Deputy Sheriff’s contribute $50K; Antioch Police Officers Association explains reasons for $5,000 contribution

By Allen D. Payton

In a post on Facebook on Monday, July 28, 2025, the Becton for DA campaign surprisingly announced new support for her recall from the Deputy Sheriff’s Association and two other “major law enforcement associations.” According to recall organizer Gwynn Gabe the other two are the Antioch Police Officers Association (APOA) and Concord Police Officers Association.

“She’s been keeping track of the people who are giving us money,” he added.

The post by “Team Becton” reads: “The recall against District Attorney Diana Becton just escalated.

Three major law enforcement associations, including the Contra Costa County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, just poured tens of thousands into the recall effort—including a single $50,000 donation. Even more telling? They’ve hired the strategist behind the recalls of DAs in San Francisco and Alameda County.

This isn’t just a warning. This is a coordinated, well-funded effort to undo the will of the voters and take Contra Costa backwards.

But here’s the truth they don’t want you to remember: we’ve already won twice. And with your help, we will again, because here’s what they’re underestimating: you. Us. This community.

This is not the time to sit back. We need you on the front lines —because what’s at stake is bigger than any one election. It’s about protecting real public safety solutions, and standing up to those who want to take us backward. DA Becton has stood up for equity, justice, and real public safety. Now we must stand up for her.”

It then offers ways for opponents of the recall to “Take Action Now” including volunteering and donating through the Act Blue campaign fundraising website for Democrats currently under investigation for possible fraudulent political contributions.

The APOA Board issued the following statement about their contribution of $5,000 to the campaign to recall Becton: “The APOA was approached by members of the recall movement who asked if we would be willing to support them in their efforts to recall the DA. After careful consideration, we agreed as a board to support this endeavor in hopes that this would ultimately lead to a more transparent DA’s office that holds criminals accountable and keeps our streets safe. Whatever the outcome, we know the officers represented by the APOA will continue to work hard to keep our community safe and have a great working relationship with the DA’s office.”

Recall organizers have until 5:00 PM on Thursday, September 25, 2025, to submit 72,556 valid signatures to qualify the effort for the ballot.

 

Police seek help identifying suspects in downtown Walnut Creek pickpocketing incident

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Pickpocket suspects were caught on store surveillance video. Source: Walnut Creek PD

By Walnut Creek Police Department

We shared a video last week of pickpocketing thieves. We are asking again for the community’s assistance in identifying the suspects in this crime. If you have any information please contact 925-935-6400 or email Detective Matt Smith at MSmith@walnutcreekpd.com.

Incident Synopsis:

During the week of July 13th, a visitor of the downtown Safeway reported having their wallet stolen without knowing what happened until it was too late. The victim was approached by two individuals – within seconds, the wallet was gone. Surveillance footage later revealed the two individuals working together—one acting as a “Lookout”, the other swiftly removing the wallet from the Victim’s purse. A third subject then walks past and gets handed off the wallet.

Pickpocketing is a crime of opportunity. Thieves often operate in busy areas such as our downtown shopping area. Their goal is to go unnoticed until it’s too late.

How to Protect Yourself: Best Practices
1. Stay Alert
Be especially cautious in crowded places. Trust your instincts—if someone is getting too close, move away.
2. Secure Your Belongings
Use bags with zippers and wear them across your body. Keep them in front of you, not behind your back.
3. Avoid Easy Targets
Don’t carry wallets or phones in your back pocket. Use inside or zippered pockets instead.
4. Split Up Your Valuables
Carry only what you need and keep money, cards, and IDs in separate places. Consider a money belt when traveling.
5. Be Aware of Distractions
Pickpockets often work in teams using distractions like fake arguments, spills, or questions to divert your attention.
6. Limit Display of Valuables
Keep your phone, jewelry, or expensive items out of sight when not in use.
⸻
Stay safe, stay aware. Pickpocketing is preventable when you stay one step ahead.
If you suspect suspicious activity or have been a victim, report it immediately to the Walnut Creek Police Department or security personnel.

 

Concord man arrested for sexual battery, false imprisonment over several months

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Daniel Alejandro Acosta-Montiel. Photo by Concord PD

Police seek additional victims; also had connections to East Contra Costa County

By Concord Police Department

The Concord Police Department has arrested 24-year-old Daniel Alejandro Acosta-Montiel for a series of sexual battery and false imprisonment incidents that occurred over the past several months.

  • The first incident occurred on January 13, 2025, where Acosta-Montiel reportedly followed a woman, grabbed her from behind, and sexually assaulted her.
  • A second incident occurred the following night, where Acosta-Montiel allegedly used a stun gun on a female victim and sexually assaulted her.
  • Approximately one month later, Acosta-Montiel was identified as the suspect in an incident where he followed a female home and assaulted her in the front yard of her residence in Concord.
  • After his arrest, a juvenile female came forward and reported that Acosta-Montiel had sexually assaulted her in October 2024.

Once identified in April 2025, Concord PD Detectives arrested Acosta-Montiel on numerous felony charges, which were subsequently filed by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office.

Acosta-Montiel, born 12/01/2001, is described as a male, 24 years old approximately 4 feet 11 inches tall and approximately 120 pounds.

Given the circumstances of this case, the Concord Police Department believes there may be additional victims. Acosta-Montiel lived in Concord during these incidents, but also had connections to East Contra Costa County.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Special Victims Unit Detective Huffmaster at 925-671-5080 or Concord PD Dispatch at 925-671-3333.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department, Acosta-Montiel is being held in the Martinez Detention Facility on no bail, and his next court appearance is on Friday, August 8 in Superior Court in Martinez at 8:30 A.M.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Motorcyclist struck by suspected drugged driver in Brentwood early Sunday

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By Brentwood Police Police Department

July 27, 2025 – At approximately 2:08 a.m., Brentwood Police officers responded to a reported vehicle-versus-motorcycle collision at the intersection of Sellers Avenue and Chestnut Street.

Upon arrival, officers determined that a male motorcyclist had come to a stop at the intersection while traveling northbound on Sellers Avenue. Moments later, his motorcycle was struck from behind by a vehicle also traveling northbound. The motorcyclist sustained life-threatening injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Due to the collision, both directions of Sellers Avenue and Chestnut Street were closed for approximately five hours to allow for investigation.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation. However, the driver of the involved vehicle was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence. Drugs are being considered a possible contributing factor.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 634-6911. Callers may remain anonymous.

Another large gathering expected at another Brentwood shopping center today, Friday, July 18

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Police issue warning for activity at Lone Tree Plaza; possible repeat of last Friday’s gathering

By Brentwood Police Department

In response to information received regarding a large gathering being promoted on social media for Friday, July 18, 2025, the Brentwood Police Department is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.  The activity is expected to be at the Lone Tree Plaza where Trader Joe’s, Marshall’s and In-N-Out Burger are located.

It follows a large gathering last Friday, July 11, 2025, at The Streets of Brentwood and Sand Creek Crossing, where Raley’s and See’s Candy are located across Sand Creek Road. That resulted in vandalism, stores closing early and five people arrested.

There has been an increase across the country experiencing similar large gatherings, including other counties in the Bay Area. This is not isolated to the City of Brentwood. This advisory is being issued to provide transparency around pre-planning efforts and to encourage responsible behavior from all community members.

Summary of Pre-Planning and Safety Measures:

  • Out of an abundance of caution, additional law enforcement personnel will be deployed throughout key areas of the community to ensure public safety, respond quickly to any incidents, and deter unlawful activity.
  • We have been in communication with key stakeholders, including local business and community partners to ensure a coordinated response and shared situational awareness.
  • Local businesses have been contacted to encourage situational awareness and cooperation, with recommendations to report any concerns promptly to authorities.
  • We encourage parents and guardians to have open conversations with their children about expectations for appropriate and lawful behavior while unsupervised in public spaces. Responsible conduct is expected from all individuals.
  • Zero Tolerance for Unlawful Conduct: Any unlawful activity will be met with appropriate enforcement actions. Criminal behavior, property damage, or acts of violence will not be tolerated and may result in immediate arrest and prosecution.

The Brentwood Police Department is grateful for the continued support of our community. The safety and quality of life for all residents remain our top priority. By working together, we can ensure that public spaces remain safe, welcoming, and respectful for everyone. We appreciate the cooperation of parents, community members, and local businesses in helping us maintain order and public safety.

For questions or concerns, please contact Lieutenant Miguel Aguiar at (925) 809-7769.