Contra Costa Herald

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

E-Bikes vs. E-Motorcycles: Why the differences matter

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Source: Pleasant Hill PD

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

E-Bikes can achieve speeds of 20 mph – 28 mph, depending on their classification. Riders of any age can legally ride a Class 1 and Class 2 e-bike in Contra Costa County, but all riders under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. Class 3 e-bike riders are required by law to be at least 16-years of age, and helmets are required for ALL Class 3 riders, regardless of age.

E-Motorcycles are, in essence, the same as a standard motorcycle in terms of speed, regulations and the law surrounding their usage. E-motorcycle riders are required by law to have a drivers license with a motorcycle endorsement, as well as motorist insurance. In addition, e-motorcycles must be registered with the CA DMV and have a license plate affixed. Given this, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to ride on an e-motorcycle, and those over 16 years old will need to be in possession of the correct license, insurance and registration requirements.

For both e-bicycles and e-motorcycles, riders must educate themselves on the rules of the road, including but not limited to adhering to the speed limit, obeying street signage (including stop lights), yielding to pedestrians, and refraining from using these devices in areas where prohibited. Failure to adhere to the rules and laws surrounding the use of e-bikes and e-motorcycles may result in citation, arrest and /or the confiscation of the device.

Know the differences. Know the law. Ride responsibly.

Martinez woman arrested, charged for stabbing daughter to death

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36-year-old Brittney Kazee suspected of killing 19-year-old Shaniyah Kazee

Held on $2 million bail

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

Martinez, California – A Martinez woman has been charged with murder after stabbing her daughter, the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office announced today, Friday, Nov. 21, 2025.

36-year-old Brittney Evanna Kazee (born 6/10/1989) faces one felony count of murder [PC 187(a)] with a deadly

weapon enhancement for using a knife in the commission of the offense [PC 12022(b)(1)].

Kazee was arrested on November 18, 2025, by Martinez Police after officers responded to a report of an altercation between two females at an apartment complex on the 100 block of Fig Tree Lane around 1:40 p.m.

One of the females, identified as 19-year-old Shaniyah Kazee, was found unconscious with a wound to her stomach area when officers arrived. She was transported to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

Brittney Kazee is set to be arraigned on charges on November 24th at 1:30 pm in Martinez. She currently remains in custody at the Martinez Detention Facility.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-feet, two-inch tall, 152-pound suspect is listed as Black and being held on $2 million bail.

More details of the incident are provided in a KRON 4 News report.

Case No. 01-25-04149 | The People of the State of California v. Brittney Evanna Kazee

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Pleasant Hill Holiday Theft Suppression begins! 16 people arrested for retail theft

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Four of the 16 individuals arrested for retail theft in Pleasant Hill. Photos: Pleasant Hill PD

7 adults from Concord, 2 from San Pablo, 1 each from Brentwood, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Richmond & Vallejo and 2 juvies from Berkeley

Many have histories of arrest, some as many as 10 to 21 times

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

As we’ve entered the holiday shopping season, we continued our special theft suppression enforcement efforts with local retailers throughout the city. Officers worked together with loss prevention to arrest 16 people in two evening operations occurring within the last week. Those who qualified under new laws have had formal charges filed by the District Attorney’s Office related to these operations. All other cases will be sent to the district attorney for review. Two juvenile arrests (residents of Berkeley) were not included below.

Many have histories of arrest, some as many as 10, 17 and 21 times.

Stolen items, a knife and tools used in the retail thefts seized by police during the operation. Photos: Pleasant Hill PD

Juis Lara 37 – Brentwood – According to localcrimenews.com, he has a history of nine arrests since 2018 for drugs, burglary and more.

Margarita Bravo 38 –Concord

Rosalinda Leach 37 – Concord – According to localcrimenews.com, she has a history of 11 arrests since 2021 for vehicle theft, hit-and-run, grand theft, using stolen ID’s, check fraud, drugs and more.

Jose Navarro 46 – Concord

Johan Omar-Matchusa 25 – Concord

Alexis Pellette 34 – Concord – According to localcrimenews.com, an Alexis Coquette Pellette was previously arrested three times, once for assault and twice for assault with a deadly weapon.

Clara Sanchez 35 –Concord

Maria Rogel 35 – Concord

Christina Mendivil 47 – Pittsburg – According to localcrimenews.com, she has a history of 10 arrests since 2014 for child cruelty, vehicle theft, petty theft, receiving stolen property, drugs and more.

Daniel Garcia-Vasquez 28 – Pleasant Hill – According to localcrimenews.com, he was previously arrested in 2022 for possession of burglar’s tools and drugs.

Stacie Gaskins 47 – Richmond – According to localcrimenews.com, she has a history of 20 arrests since 2015 for vehicle theft, grand theft, burglary, robbery, shoplifting, theft, petty theft, forgery, forged driver’s license or ID, using stolen ID, driving without a license, trespassing, drugs and more.

Devoreah Allen 27 – San Pablo

Kendra Timmons 57 – San Pablo – According to localcrimenews.com, she has a history of 17 arrests since 2013 for robbery, burglary, grand theft, shoplifting, carrying a loaded firearm, carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle, addict in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of tear gas, forgery, using stolen ID, check fraud, drugs and more.

Jade Hill 20 – Vallejo

These holiday theft-suppression operations will continue throughout the holiday season. Would be grinches beware, we will be on high alert to protect our retail partners and community members.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

State Office of Traffic Safety awards $60,000 grant to the Oakley Police Department

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For traffic enforcement program to increase road safety

By Danielle Navarro, Oakley Assistant City Manager

Oakley, Calif. – The Oakley Police Department announced today that it has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support its ongoing enforcement and education programs to help reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on our roads. The grant program runs through September 2026.

“We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” said Oakley Police Department Sergeant Steve Soares. “Through a combination of education and enforcement efforts, our goal is to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”

The grant will provide additional programs and resources, including:

  • DUI checkpoints and patrols focused on stopping suspected impaired drivers.
  • High-visibility distracted driving enforcement operations targeting drivers in violation of California’s hands-free cell phone law.
  • Enforcement operations focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of people biking or walking at risk.
  • Enforcement operations focused on top violations that cause crashes: speeding, failure to yield, stop sign and/or red-light running, and improper turning or lane changes.
  • Community presentations on traffic safety issues such as distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding and bicycle and pedestrian safety.
  • Collaborative enforcement efforts with neighboring agencies.
  • Officer training and/or recertification: Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) and Drug Recognition Expert (DRE).

“Through focused traffic enforcement and education, we’re working toward a future where everyone will be safe on California roads,” said OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty. “By encouraging people to prioritize safety in their daily choices, we are creating a strong road safety culture together.”

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Juveniles stopped for riding e-bikes, electric motorcycles in Lafayette, one impounded for 30 days

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Photos: Lafayette PD

Police offer rules, regulations, age restrictions for operating

By Lafayette Police

Recently, a Lafayette PD motor officer attempted to stop four juveniles – two riding electric bikes and two on electric motorcycles. Three of the juveniles stopped, but one sped away. Due to safety concerns, the officer did not pursue.

The motor officer provided an educational talk to the three juveniles who stopped and released them with a verbal warning. A parent came to pick up the one juvenile and the electric motorcycle.

After some follow-up investigation, on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, our motor officer located the same juvenile who had previously fled. He was riding the same electric motorcycle, this time performing a wheelie on a public street. Fortunately, the juvenile stopped for the officer. The motor officer cite-released the juvenile to his parent on scene and impounded the electric motorcycle for 30 days.

Don’t run from the police; it only escalates the situation.

Remember: Unregistered electric motorcycles are not street legal.

E-Bike vs. Electric Motorcycle (CA law):

  • Class 1 E-Bike: pedal assist only, no throttle, max 20 mph
  • Class 2 E-Bike: pedal assist plus throttle, max 20 mph
  • Class 3 E-Bike: pedal assist only, max 28 mph (helmet required, no riders under 16)
  • Electric Motorcycle: Anything exceeding these specs (no pedals, higher speeds) requires registration, insurance, and a motorcycle license for road use.
  • Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV): Models like Sur-Ron or Talaria electric motorcycles are designed only for off-road use.

Concord Police implement Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program

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Photos: Concord PD

Deployed from strategically placed launch sites across the city

By Concord Police Department

Since 2021, the Concord Police Department has successfully used drone technology to enhance community safety, assist officers in the field and provide real-time support during critical incidents.

Now, we’re taking the next step forward in public safety with the Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program — a groundbreaking initiative that helps officers respond faster, smarter, and safer.

From strategically placed launch sites across the city, trained pilots can deploy drones within seconds of certain 911 calls. These drones stream live aerial video, giving officers the information they need to make quick, informed decisions — leading to faster response times and safer outcomes for our community.

Each flight operates under strict FAA regulations and department policies to ensure transparency, accountability, and privacy protection.

Over the next several weeks, Concord PD will begin implementing the DFR program, preparing for full deployment in the near future.

The DFR program represents the next chapter in our ongoing commitment to innovation and community safety — because keeping Concord safe is our top priority.

Brentwood woman’s death following September arrest during family dispute under investigation

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Police issue statement a month after passing of 72-year-old Yolanda Bustos Ramirez

Family, through husband’s attorney, blames police officers, files claim against City

By Allen D. Payton

On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, the Brentwood Police Department issued the following statement on the death of 72-year-old Yolanda Bustos Ramirez, who passed 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.

“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.

“The City of Brentwood is fully cooperating with the independent investigation. Body-worn camera and dash-camera footage will be provided in accordance with the law and Contra Costa County’s Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol.

“While we cannot comment further on an active investigation or pending claim, we want to assure the public that the Brentwood Police Department is committed to treating all individuals with dignity and respect in every call they respond to, and to following established procedures designed to ensure transparency and accountability.

Our thoughts remain with the Ramirez family during this difficult time.”

Cover letter for the claim against the City of Brentwood from the attorney for Ramirez’s husband blaming her death on Brentwood Police Officers. Source: KTVU FOX2

According to a KTVU FOX2 news report, Ramirez’s family is blaming her death on the police. Her husband, Rudolfo has filed a claim against the City of Brentwood this week, and his attorney, Melissa C. Nold, sent a cover letter dated November 3, 2025, in which she wrote, Yolanda “was violently arrested by multiple Brentwood Police Officers, resulting in her death.”

The claim names “Officer Aaron Peachman, and other Brentwood Police Officers yet to be determined” and demands the “preservation of evidence” and “exceeds $25,000.”  (See Claim included in KTVU’s report)

Obituary

According to her obituary, Yolanda Bustos Ramirez was born on May 16, 1953, and passed away on Friday, October 3, 2025.

She was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, to Francisco and Aurora Bustos. A devoted and beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, Tia, and friend, she will be remembered for her unconditional love for family and friends, caring nature toward others like donating blood to the Red Cross, and her sense of humor especially her contagious laugh.

Yolanda grew up in Brentwood, CA when it was a small farming community and graduated from Liberty Union High School in 1972. She went on to attend some college at Diablo Valley College before raising a family and working at Contra Costa County Health Services for nearly 30 years.

Known for her green thumb in gardening, homemade flour tortillas and chicken enchiladas, baking delicious desserts, solving puzzles, interest in the paranormal, and collection of healing crystals; her greatest joy came from always being at the side of her husband, spending quality time with her immediate family for dinners and game nights, and attending family reunions and gatherings like the annual No Te Dejes Ramirez family event. She always had a contagious laugh and found humor recollecting embarrassing moments in her life, a strong devotion to babysitting her grandchildren, and unwavering support for her family and touched countless lives with her warmth and kindness.

She is survived by her loving husband, Rudy; her children, Richie, Kiko/Andrea, and Becky/Robert; her grandchildren, Franki/Cole, Julian, Alonzo, Santana, and Noemi; her siblings, Ruben, Alfred, and Sylvia; and many other loving family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francisco and Aurora, and other deceased relatives, Frank (brother), Victor (nephew), Pablo and Alice (father and mother-in-law), Dick (brother-in-law), Pablo (nephew), and Johnny (nephew).

A Celebration of Life has yet to be determined but tentatively planning for April or May 2026. Yolanda took great pride in donating blood at the Red Cross so feel free to donate to your favorite non-profit to continue the legacy of helping others. In lieu of flowers, the family requests to share a memory on this site and continued love, support, and hugs during this difficult time.

Concord PD’s K9 Rico finds hidden firearm after foot pursuit

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Concord Police K9 Rico with the confiscated gun and magazine. Photo: Concord PD

By Concord Police Department

Recently, officers from a neighboring agency pursued a suspect who was believed to be armed. After the suspect was safely taken into custody, officers requested assistance from our K9 team to search the area for any discarded evidence.

K9 Rico, who is specially trained in locating firearms, tracked the suspect’s path and located a loaded handgun with an extended magazine hidden between some tires near where the suspect was arrested.

Great work by K9 Rico and his handler for helping ensure our community stays safe!

45-year-old felon arrested for Brentwood business burglary

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Mario Delgado of Brentwood was on felony probation, has a history of arrests, held on $50K bail

By Brentwood Police Department

On Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 8800 block of Brentwood Blvd. in response to an alarm call at a local business.

Upon arrival, officers discovered an open door but did not locate anyone inside the premises. Officers reviewed the business’s video surveillance footage, which showed a male suspect inside the business stealing items.

A short time later, a Brentwood Sergeant located the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Mario Raphael Delgado of Brentwood (born 4/18/1980), a short distance from the burglarized business. Delgado was found to have an outstanding felony warrant and was on felony probation at the time of arrest.

Delgado was transported to the Martinez Detention Facility for booking on charges related to the burglary and the outstanding warrant.

The Brentwood Police Department remains committed to protecting local businesses. Had it not been for the video surveillance and the quick response by officers, the suspect may not have been arrested.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, five-feet, eight inches tall, 175-pound Delgado is Hispanic, but also listed as white, and being held in the West County Detention Facility on $50,000 bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 15 at 8:30 AM in Superior Court in Pittsburg.

According to localcrimenews.com, he has a history of arrests dating back to 2015 by multiple agencies including Fremont PD, and the Sheriff’s Departments of Tulare, Fresno, El Dorado and Contra Costa counties for crimes including carjacking, vandalism, DUI, inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, addict in possession of firearm, carrying a concealed firearm – pistol, revolver, other, carrying a loaded firearm when not the registered owner, purchasing or receiving a firearm knowing that he is prohibited by restraining order or injunction and intoxicated in public.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Antioch woman arrested in Brentwood for illegal gun, large quantity of drugs

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Un-serialized loaded gun found near the suspect’s vehicle and seized during arrest. Photo: Brentwood PD

43-year-old Veronica Angelica-Maria Greenhouse held on $100,000 bail; celebrating her birthday in jail

By Brentwood Police Department

On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Brentwood officers were dispatched to the 5900 block of Lone Tree Way in response to a report of a suspicious circumstance. The reporting party stated they heard gunshots in a commercial parking lot and associated the sounds with a parked vehicle.

Upon arrival, officers detained three subjects near the vehicle in question. During the investigation, officers located an un-serialized loaded firearm and a spent casing near the vehicle. A large quantity of drugs and paraphernalia commonly associated with narcotics sales were also found.

43-year-old Veronica Angelica-Maria Greenhouse of Antioch (born 10/28/82) was arrested for multiple firearm-related offenses, including being a felon in possession of a firearm, as well as possession of narcotics for sale. She was transported to the Martinez Detention Facility.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot tall, 125-pound Greenhouse is Hispanic, is being held in the West County Detention Facility on $100,000 bail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Superior Court in Martinez on Nov. 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.