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California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a civil rights investigation Wednesday into the Antioch Police Department after dozens of officers were caught sending and receiving racist, homophobic, and violent text messages in which they brag about using force against the city's residents. Bonta also cited longstanding complaints about the Antioch police department, saying data shows spikes of excessive force especially against communities of color. The police department has already been under investigation for misconduct since 2022, by the FBI and the Contra Costa County District Attorney's office. We'll talk about police wrongdoing in Antioch and its impact on the city's residents. Guests: Sandhya Dirks, national correspondent covering race and identity, NPR Nate Gartrell, Contra Costa County Courts reporter, Bay Area News Group Shagoofa Khan, community organizer in Antioch
This episode contains explicit, racist and offensive language, as well as descriptions of violence. For years, police officers in the city of Antioch used racist and homophobic slurs with their colleagues in text messages, and openly bragged about targeting people of color with violence. These messages were released to the public in a Contra Costa County District Attorney report last week. These racist texts were released as the department is already being investigated by federal authorities, and as a grand jury considers charging officers with fraud, assault under color of authority, bribery, and other charges. Nearly 1 in 5 police officers in Antioch are currently suspended. For longtime advocates of police reform in Antioch, these messages are a painful reminder of how deeply racism is embedded in the culture of their local police department. Guest: Nate Gartrell, East Bay Times courts reporter Links: Exclusive: Inside the Antioch police department's secret racist texting group New text messages show Antioch gang unit boasted about injuring suspects, kicking heads like a ‘field goal' District Attorney Investigative Reports Detail Alleged Antioch Police Racist Texts This episode was produced by Holly J. McDede and Maria Esquinca, and guest hosted by Alan Montecillo, who also edited.
On this episode of WTF California, Kenny survived his 50th birthday party, however, his liver filed for divorce. We see the media is now covering the money and talking points in the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Race between Diana Becton and Mary Knox -- Knox must win! Meanwhile, Vicki Gordon who vying for Contra Costa clerk-recorder, was caught last week taking an opponent's campaign sign from a Pleasant Hill property. We cover gas prices, crime and illegal drone use by setting off fireworks plus more including best fast food chain and best craft breweries. Articles From the Show Seattle Police Release Video of Fatal Shooting of Suspect in Alexis Gabe Case Contra Costa County DA race pits boss against deputy Billionaire, law enforcement pour money into Contra Costa DA race Bay Area election-chief candidate caught taking opponent's campaign sign. Inexcusable. California lawmakers mull buying out farmers to save water Gas hits nearly $10 a gallon in California's Mendocino Safeway Employee Shot to Death After Dispute in San Jose: Police 1 man killed in Stockton shooting Suspect shoots self after shootout with officers in Tierrasanta: authorities EXCLUSIVE: Nepali man assaulted, robbed in Oakland speaks out on AAPI hate San Francisco Police Arrest 4 in 3 Separate Homicide Cases in Span of Days: Chief We're going to change Sacramento': Sex trafficking awareness rally takes to the state Capitol Claims that 5 San Diego State football players raped a girl were followed by months of silence Man Arrested for Allegedly Using Drone to Ignite Illegal Fireworks Former Yreka City Clerk arrested again for rape and child porn charges This is the most popular fast food chain in Los Angeles, study says The best craft breweries in California, according to Yelp
On this episode of WTF California Podcast, we highlight how we are seeing more self-defense shooting of criminals including tow locally over the past week. We touch on the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Race and how something doesn't smell right with the charges on Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe and the timeline of pending charges and filing after Mary Knox campaign releases public records request letter. Campaign launched by businesses against retail theft and property crimes. We touch on bill that would open up police radio traffic to the public. Plus more. Articles From the Show: Update: Oakley Police Say Woman Shot and Killed Man in Self-Defense Update: Attempted Robbery in Antioch Leads to One Dead, Another Wounded Resident fatally shoots suspected burglar in Walnut; 2nd suspect sought Contra Costa County DA Charges Antioch Mayor for DUI Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe faces trial on 2 counts of DUI Contra Costa DA race fought against backdrop of stark policy contrasts, lawsuit, office drama Ongoing criminal investigation into East Contra Costa cops is affecting criminal justice system; felony charges dropped, DA review underway ‘She was so beleaguered': Oakland mayor says police chief was fired because community lost faith in her MAP: Here are the shootings in Sacramento and Stockton so far in 2022 Senate bill to limit police encryption scores another victory California Businesses Launch Campaign Against Retail Theft and Property Crimes San Jose teen's death hours after scam is part of troubling increase in 'sextortion' cases, FBI says Woman kidnapped by 3 men, pistol-whipped, robbed near El Cerrito BART, police say Modesto Police: Arrests made in Sunglass Hut thefts Fresno police catch suspect after he falls out of Save Mart ceiling Bay Area Homelessness Worsens, But It Could Have Been Worse Runaway bull injures 6 people at popular NorCal rodeo Two Bills Aimed at Stricter Movie Set Firearms Regulations Fail to Pass Senate Committee Sacramento police offer gas money for gun buyback, overwhelmed by interest More Than 400 Unwanted Guns Returned During Buyback Event in Milpitas
Paul Holes is a retired investigator from the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office who was the Lead Cold Case investigator for the Golden State Killer Case and is largely responsible for the identification and arrest of Joseph DeAngelo.
Comprehensive coverage of the day's news with a focus on war and peace; social, environmental and economic justice. Death toll mounts in Ukraine under Russia's siege, U.N. estimates 2 million Ukrainians have fled the country. U.S. President Joe Biden bans Russian oil and gas imports into the U.S. For International Women's Day abortion rights advocates take to the streets in nationwide protests for reproductive rights. New report debunks “excited delerium” as cause of death in fatal police encounters. Family of man killed by Danville cop and supporters demand Contra Costa County District Attorney press charges. Images of Russian bomb in Chernihiv, Ukraine and Ukrainian house on fire from Russian attacks by Ukraine's Defense Minister. The post Russia accused of shelling Ukraine civilians; President Joe Biden bans Russian oil and gas imports; Nationwide U.S. protests for abortion rights on International Women's Day – March 8, 2022 appeared first on KPFA.
Comprehensive coverage of the day's news with a focus on war and peace; social, environmental and economic justice. Death toll mounts in Ukraine under Russia's siege, U.N. estimates 2 million Ukrainians have fled the country. U.S. President Joe Biden bans Russian oil and gas imports into the U.S. For International Women's Day abortion rights advocates take to the streets in nationwide protests for reproductive rights. New report debunks “excited delerium” as cause of death in fatal police encounters. Family of man killed by Danville cop and supporters demand Contra Costa County District Attorney press charges. Images of Russian bomb in Chernihiv, Ukraine and Ukrainian house on fire from Russian attacks by Ukraine's Defense Minister. The post Russia accused of shelling Ukraine civilians; President Joe Biden bans Russian oil and gas imports; Nationwide U.S. protests for abortion rights on International Women's Day – March 8, 2022 appeared first on KPFA.
In this special episode, I wanted to explore power in politics and what impact Vice President Kamala Harris will have on the collective experience of Black women in the United States. Today's guest is truthteller, Rita Forte. Rita Forte is the Founder of the marketing organization The Olive Street Agency (TOSA) in Oakland, overseeing all strategy and operations of offerings including Merchandising, Social Media Management, and Video Content Creation. Prior to TOSA, from 2001-2011, she was a DJ/On-Air Personality on Radio (106.1 KMEL & Sirius Satellite) and through Mixtape Projects. With her team at TOSA, she has delivered clients' marketing services across the spectrum of small businesses, non-profits, artists, and political candidates. Most recently in 2018, TOSA ran the social media and video efforts for the current mayor of East Palo Alto, Regina Wallace-Jones, and Contra Costa County District Attorney, Diana Becton. In 2019, Rita was the Bay Area Regional Field Coordinator for the Marianne Williamson for President Campaign. Rita is also a member and part of the leadership teams of national community organizations BWOPA (Black Women Organized for Political Action) and ADOS (American Descendants of Slavery). Rita has a B.A. in Psychology from Williams College, MA. Links and books mentioned: Rita's Twitter Rita's Instagram Rita's YouTube Rita's company: The Olive Street Agency Black Women Organized for Political Action Return to Love by Marianne Williamson Healing the Soul of America by Marianne Williamson The Law of Divine Compensation by Marianne Williamson This episode is brought to you by Money & Mimosas
On this episode of WTF California Podcast, we interview Mary Knox, candidate for Contra Costa County District Attorney. She highlights how she plans to restore safety in the county to hold people accountable for the crimes they commit. She talks ethics, integrity and victims' rights. We get into a variety of topics so give it a listen. For more information on Mary Knox, visit www.maryknox4da.com
On this episode of WTF California Podcast, we chat with Benjamin Therriault who is running for Contra Costa County Sheriff. We touch on community policing, increasing transparency, jails, putting more deputies on patrol, homelessness, conceal carry weapon policy. We also get into working to keep criminals in jail while working with the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office. Websites referenced in the Show Benjamin Therriault (official campaign website) Richmond Police union boss aims to unseat sheriff in Contra Costa County Richmond police defend K-9 bites that caused 73 serious injuries in past six years Ben Therriault: On the Role of the Police Officers Association A cop, and resident, of Richmond public housing
On this episode of WTF California Podcast, we focus on a bunch of Contra Costa County tidbits from Oakley Councilman fibbing, Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office continues to showcase incompetence. City of Richmond looking at allowing undocumented residents to vote. LA City Council votes ban on homeless encampments. Plus much more. Articles from the Show Borenstein: Felon elections chief keeps pension, serves sentence in Hawaii DA won't charge man arrested in fatal shooting outside Walnut Creek bar; police describe chaos after group was removed for sexual harassment District Attorney Report Says Sheriff Deputies Acted Lawfully During 2018 Detainment of Oakley Man East Bay city to look at allowing undocumented residents to vote in local elections LA City Council approves ban on homeless encampments in areas throughout city Disneyland to require face masks indoors for guests, cast members CA fines El Super grocery stores $447K for failing to provide paid COVID sick leave Los Angeles, Long Beach requiring city workers to show vaccination proof or test negative weekly Sacramento County recommends wearing masks in public indoor settings I don't see it happening': Fletcher says mask recommendation unlikely to become mandate Proposal to ban 'ghost guns' in San Diego Outdoor Activities Canceled Due To Unhealthy Air In Sacramento Region Ambulances in Ventura County get kits to help autistic patients during stressful ride
On this episode of WTF California Podcast, we talk firearms and how they help protect people in their homes. We have seen 5 incidents this past week over people with guns shooting intruders in Northern California alone. Mary Knox announces run for Contra Costa County District Attorney against Diana Becton We touch on City of Oakland and how they are at 71 homicides as the Oakland Police Chief aims to rally the community against violence. New tool against sideshows are implemented. In Folsom, restaurant blasts government handouts as reason they cant hire people because no one wants to work plus much more. Articles Referenced in the Show Oakley Police Say Man Shot and Killed After Forcing Himself into a Home San Francisco resident shoots at burglary suspect breaking into his apartment Other recent incidents: Home intruder with semi-automatic handgun shot, killed by Fairfield homeowner Deputies Say Suspect In 2nd Home Intruder Shooting In Stanislaus County Shot At Homeowner Elderly Modesto couple use self defense to protect home, kill would-be intruder More Stories from the Show Four Oakland shootings within seven hour span leave 1 dead, 4 others wounded 'Stand Up for a Safe Oakland' rally draws community together to denounce violence They're called 'Botts' Dots' and they could be the answer to deterring Oakland sideshows Folsom Taqueria Posts Sign Blaming Government Assistance For Slow Service SF mandates workers in high-risk settings be vaccinated by September 15 PG&E wants to propose an 18% rate hike during a heat wave. Here's why Detectives uncover eight victims of sexual crimes and misconduct by Sanger officer Police radio encryption: Berkeley to take a different approach than Palo Alto — public involvement Gov. Newsom and California hospitals seek delay for earthquake building upgrades 'At what point does it stop?': Standoff continues between homeowner, squatter on social assistance Bay Area appliance centers experience widespread shortages Buy, Borrow, Die: How Rich Americans Live Off Their Paper Wealth ‘Never worry about running out of gas': Stockton man builds solar-powered trike Terrifying videos show crowd rushing to stabilize an out-of-control carnival ride
On this episode, I chat with Matt Shupe who is the Chair of the Contra Costa County Republican Party. He is also a political consultant and does Public Relations Work. We discuss a variety of issues including Gavin Newsom, COVID-19 shutdowns, status of the republican party, how to get involved and a variety of other items. Please consider providing a gratuity to support this show at https://patron.podbean.com/contracostatoday Episode Overview: 00:25 – Introduction of Matt Shupe who is on the show representing himself, not any client or political party. 03:05 – We talk about Harmeet Dillion and her law firm including the Center For American Liberty filing several lawsuits as Governors and states overstep their power. Shupe argues there is politics over science 06:14 – We talk about COVID-19 Hypocrite number one in Governor Gavin Newsom and the dinner at the French Laundry which Newsom apologized and told the world what happened, however, the photographs released show a different story. Shupe also brings up Nancy Pelosi and the hair solon incident. 12:40 – We talk about the lack of accountability, which is happening in Contra Costa County due to the District Attorney’s Office. Shupe says Diana Becton has legalized petty theft under $950 which has huge ramifications. We talk about how in this county, the victim has become the criminal—such as the incidents at Bourbon Highway in Walnut Creek. 22:36 – We jump back to California going into the Purple Tier. The hypocrisy over enforcement of businesses being shutdown but its okay for hundreds of people to protest, but churches also can’t gather. We jump into Assemblymembers Kevin Kiley and James Gallagher. 24:22 – We talk about Kevin Kiley being public enemy number one as he fight against Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) which was introduced by Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego). AB 5 was rejected by voters who approved Proposition 22 by 58% who support the gig economy. 26:35 – we talk about this Hawaii trip by California legislators during a so called 14-day quarantine for travel in and out of California. 30:48 – I explain what is going on with City Managers, Police Departments, City Governments have retreated on giving out information – no real discussions are occurring in local governments. Community wide discussions are really not wanted, just rammed through policy and ordinances. Shupe jumps into lack of Public Records Requests not even being responded to, which is what is happening at the California Department of Health. 39:05 – Bring up Governor Gavin Newsom possible curfew coming soon. We get into science vs. data. 43:50 – How people can get involved over the next two-years before the 2022 elections, if people want to get involved with possible running for election, what needs to happen now? Shupe says the goal is to build a bench. We talk about Assembly District 11 which is currently held by Jim Frazier. 51:55 – I ask Shupe if he believes Gavin Newsom will run for President in 2024. 55:48 – I argue how California Legislators should be rolling back regulations during COVID-19. There is still a backlog of unemployment claims. Shupe talks about the failures of California Departments such as the DMV. 57:13 – Shupe talks about the problem with Republicans in California—who focus on bland topics such as budget. 57:48 – We talk about Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) director Rebecca Saltzman tweeting out that Debora Allen’s victory “shows the not-so-hidden racism of East Bay suburban residents”. Shupe highlights how she is actually calling a lot of democrats racist because Allen’s District is only 23% republican. I explain how Director Mark Foley is an east county representative but is pandering to San Francisco and Oakland. 01:03:31 – We briefly touch on Congressman Eric Swalwell on his failed Presidential run. 01:04:11 – Shupe provides advice for people who want to get involved and possibly even run for office. We get into homeless, what is going on in Texas with people moving out of California. This idea what republicans in Contra Costa County run out of nowhere, no one knows who they are. 01:12:30 – Why can’t republicans get together in some of these local city council races and decide on which candidate to run so they don’t split the vote – which happened in some local races, including City of Brentwood. 01:18:57 – Shupe talks about his focus over the next two years. He calls the biggest goal for 2022 is to replace the Diana Becton, Contra Costa County District Attorney. 01:21:01 – Shupe plugs how people can get in touch with the Contra Costa County Republic Party and www.LibertyCenter.org
On this episode, I chat with Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton who in September of 2017 was sworn in as the 25th District Attorney for the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office. District Attorney Becton leads a prosecutorial office of approximately 200 lawyers, investigators, and staff. District Attorney Becton served for 22 years as a judge in Contra Costa County, where she was elected as Presiding Judge. We get into how they had more than 14,000 misdemeanor requests from Law Enforcement while prosecuting 4,500 of those. They also prosecuted 3,400 felonies in 2017. Becton recently announced Youth Courts, Restorative Justice and bringing the Sand Hook Program to the County. We discuss human trafficking, illegal dumping, repeat misdemeanor offenders, domestic violence, homeless & mental illness while talking about the anti-truancy program. We close by chatting about how Senator Nancy Skinner named Becton the Woman of the Year in the 9th District.
District Attorney Diana Becton has spent most of her professional career as a judge, lawyer, and manager. On September 17, 2017, she was sworn in as the 25th District Attorney for the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office. District Attorney Becton served for 22 years as a judge in Contra Costa County, where she was elected as Presiding Judge.Her top priority is keeping the streets of Contra Costa County safe from dangerous and violent criminals. District Attorney Becton is committed to safeguarding our communities from crimes that threaten our health, well-being, and livelihood, protecting our seniors from financial abuse, and for working on positive outcomes for our youth.District Attorney Becton is the Immediate Past President of the National Association of Women Judges, the nation’s leading voice for women in the judiciary. She currently serves as the Chair of the California State Bar Council on Access and Fairness.A native of California she is a product of Oakland public schools and a graduate of Golden Gate University School of Law. Most recently, District Attorney Becton earned a Masters of Theological Studies at Pacific School of Religion (2015).District Attorney Becton leads a prosecutorial office of approximately 200 lawyers, investigators, and staff. She is the first woman and the first African-American to serve as Contra Costa County District Attorney since the office was established in 1850.LISTEN HERE: VOLUME 8With Hosts: Summer C. SelleckAriel B. LeeSound Editing and Recording: Gilbert LeungMusic: Jonathan M. C. JordanRecording At: Alameda County District Attorney Office
Kicking September off with a Big Bunch of a Bang, Melissa covers some fascinating new ground in the ongoing prosecution of Joseph D'Angelo, the accused Golden State Killer. Including a discussion of the brilliant legal move made by the Contra Costa County District Attorney to turn what could have been a legal dead end into a possible new prosecutorial avenue to get justice for more victims...a background profile of one of the unsung (hopefully soon to be loudly sung) heroes of the case - a retired attorney-turned genealogist who played perhaps the biggest role in capturing the suspect...and Melissa's take on the Sacramento County District Attorney's behavior at the recent boffo press confab (spoiler alert: it ain't pretty).
Paul Holes spent 24 years searching for the East Area Rapist - Golden State Killer. As an investigator for the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, Holes retraced the steps of the notorious criminal. Hours before he left law enforcement Holes drove to Joseph DeAngelo’s home but stopped himself from going inside. FOX40 spoke to Paul Holes at Crime Con in Nashville after an arrest was made.
He has wanted to solve the case before he retired... The stunning conclusion to a decades-long hunt for the "Golden State Killer" is something you'll want to hear straight from Paul Holes of the Contra Costa County District Attorney's office. Lisa Amin Gulezian with ABC7 in San Francisco spoke with the newly retired cold case investigator, about his search for the "Golden State Killer." And now we present the full, uncut version of that interview.