Antioch City Council Rejects Key Changes to Police Oversight Commission

BREAKING: The Antioch City Council has just rejected critical amendments to the Police Oversight Commission, igniting heated debate within the community. The council voted against several proposed changes, including controversial background checks and social media screenings for new commissioners.

Concerns erupted around three key proposals: implementing background checks and fingerprinting for applicants, allowing law enforcement officers to serve on the commission, and granting the City Council the power to temporarily pause commission meetings. Councilmember Donald Freitas vehemently opposed the background checks, arguing that they could introduce bias and prejudice. “I don’t think it’s appropriate in this commission. I don’t think it’s appropriate in any commission,” he stated.

The debate intensified following the appointment of Joseph Mitchell in May, whose alleged racist and anti-LGBTQ+ social media posts drew public backlash. Susan Kennedy, a current oversight commissioner, expressed her apprehensions, noting that stringent requirements could send a message of exclusion. “It creates concern in the current climate of cancel culture,” she warned.

The proposed amendments included an unprecedented suggestion that the City Council could pause the oversight commission’s functions with a majority vote, based on factors such as effectiveness or budget constraints. This plan arose after Mayor Ron Bernal sought to pause the commission temporarily while searching for a replacement for Commissioner Leslie May, who recently resigned.

Assistant City Attorney Kevin Kundinger defended the idea of including law enforcement officers, referencing the Seattle Police Commission’s successful model. “This isn’t unprecedented and has been endorsed by the U.S. Department of Justice,” Kundinger argued.

However, Councilmember Monica Wilson viewed the idea of a temporary pause as a “slippery slope,” cautioning against the potential misuse of such power. Freitas echoed concerns about public perception, stating, “I doubt that will ever happen, particularly with some of the audience we have here today.”

Additional proposed changes included extending the timeline for commissioners to complete a police ride-along from 30 days to 90 days after appointment. Councilmembers urged staff to explore alternative training options, such as dispatcher observation, to accommodate those unable to participate in ride-alongs.

The council’s rejection of these amendments signifies ongoing tensions surrounding police oversight in Antioch. The proposed changes are not finalized, as city staff will now prepare an ordinance incorporating the council’s suggestions for future review.

Residents and community advocates are urged to stay informed as the situation develops, with implications that could reshape the dynamics of police oversight in Antioch. The next steps will be critical in determining how the oversight commission functions and its impact on community relations with law enforcement.

This story is developing, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.