Solano Sun

Washington, D.C. – On April 20, Representatives John Garamendi (CA-08) and Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10)  sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting the U.S. Department of Justice investigate the Antioch Police Department (APD) in Antioch, California following extremely troubling reports of racist, homophobic, and illegal conduct by law enforcement officers, demonstrating a pattern of unconstitutional discrimination, use of force, and violations of the constitutional rights of Antioch citizens.

“There is no room for hatred or bigotry in our community,” Garamendi said. “The despicable, racist, and immoral statements made by Antioch Police Department officers must be thoroughly investigated by the United States Department of Justice.

“The recent joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office showed that at least 45 officers were involved in exchanging disturbing text messages, which is over half of the total 99 sworn officers currently employed by the Antioch Police Department,” Garamendi continued.

“The unconscionable messages promising a ‘free prime rib dinner’ to anyone who shoots Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe with rubber bullets is yet another, somber example of the additional risks Black elected officials endure throughout America as they answer the call to serve their community,” Garamendi continued. “The vile characterizations of Black residents as gorillas paint a clear picture of a systemic culture of racism, intolerance, and cruelty at the Antioch Police Department that is unacceptable for those sworn to protect and serve their community.

“Our sympathies are with the residents of Antioch who have been threatened and betrayed by these officers. We stand with them in calling for accountability and action in this matter,” Garamendi concluded.

A copy of the letter can be found here.

Original source can be found here