Antioch Police, Discrimination, California 2022

OAKLAND — The grimy truth behind racial discrimination and other discriminatory conduct by Antioch Police Department officers in Antioch, California, has come to light. A federal investigation has revealed the shocking reality that dozens of APD personnel allegedly exchanged discriminatory text communications between September 2019 and January 2022.

The investigation was launched after the public disclosure of these racist text messages. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Civil Rights Division jointly investigated APD’s compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) and the nondiscrimination provisions of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (Safe Streets Act).

“Law enforcement is only effective when it inspires public confidence,” said United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey. “A police department that discriminates based on race and other protected classes undermines both public safety and public confidence. Today’s agreement will help ensure that policing in Antioch is done constitutionally and will help restore public trust.”

According to the agreement, APD will hire an expert law enforcement consultant to review and update APD’s policies, procedures, and training on non-discriminatory policing, use of force, hiring and promotions, investigations of misconduct, discipline, community policing, language access, and other topics.

The agreement also contemplates a role for the Antioch Police Oversight Commission and sets forth a framework for data collection and reporting for a five-year period of departmental monitoring. This will ensure that Antioch’s policing practices are free from discrimination in the road ahead.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael Keough, with the assistance of Jonathan Birch, and attorneys from the Federal Coordination and Compliance Section of the Civil Rights Division are handling this case. Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations to this office via their website or at civilrights.justice.gov/report/.

The grimy truth behind racial discrimination in law enforcement is a stain on our society. The Antioch Police Department’s agreement with the DOJ is a crucial step towards creating a more just and equitable society. We will continue to hold those in power accountable for their actions.

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