The Justice Department has reached an agreement with the Antioch Police Department (APD) and the City of Antioch to resolve an investigation into alleged race discrimination and other discriminatory conduct by APD officers. The investigation was initiated following public disclosure of discriminatory text communications allegedly exchanged by APD personnel between September 2019 and January 2022.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, investigated APD's compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the nondiscrimination provisions of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act. These laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, and religion by recipients of federal financial assistance.

“Law enforcement is only effective when it inspires public confidence,” stated United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey. He emphasized that a police department engaging in discrimination undermines both public safety and trust. Ramsey added that the agreement aims to ensure constitutional policing in Antioch and restore public trust.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division remarked, “Fair and non-discriminatory policing is fundamental to effective law enforcement.” She noted that working with the Justice Department for reform sends a strong message against discrimination and misconduct.

In response to these findings, APD, along with city officials, cooperated with federal authorities to create a resolution agreement emphasizing nondiscrimination in police operations. The agreement includes hiring an expert law enforcement consultant to review and update policies related to non-discriminatory policing practices among other topics.

Additionally, there will be involvement from the Antioch Police Oversight Commission as part of a framework for data collection and reporting over five years for departmental monitoring.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael Keough is handling this case alongside Jonathan Birch and attorneys from the Federal Coordination and Compliance Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

Members of the public are encouraged to report potential civil rights violations through designated channels.