The Justice Department has reached an agreement with the Antioch Police Department (APD) and the City of Antioch to address allegations of race discrimination by APD officers. The investigation began after it was revealed that APD personnel exchanged discriminatory text messages between September 2019 and January 2022. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, investigated APD's adherence to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the nondiscrimination provisions of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act.
United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey stated, “Law enforcement is only effective when it inspires public confidence,” emphasizing that discrimination undermines public safety and trust. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke added, “Fair and non-discriminatory policing is fundamental to effective law enforcement,” highlighting that Antioch Police Department's cooperation sends a strong message against discrimination.
In response, APD, alongside city officials, collaborated with the department to reach a resolution agreement focused on preventing discriminatory practices in law enforcement. The agreement includes hiring an expert consultant to review and update policies related to non-discriminatory policing, use of force, misconduct investigations, community policing, among other areas.
The agreement also involves the Antioch Police Oversight Commission in monitoring data collection for five years. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Keough and attorneys from the Federal Coordination and Compliance Section are handling this case.