March 25, 2025
City Council
DATE: March 25, 2025
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda
Subject:
Proclamation Honoring the Richmond Police Department
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
Proclamation Honoring the Richmond Police Department
to honor the extraordinary collective efforts and actions of the Richmond Police Department—officers, detectives,
and crime scene investigators that showcases the very
best of law enforcement -to protect and serve with
integrity, diligence, and courage, to stand as a beacon of justice for all.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
PROCLAMATION to recognize and honor the
extraordinary collective efforts and actions of the
Richmond Police Department—officers, detectives, and
crime scene investigators that came together to help stop a minor from being sexually abused by her stepfather -
Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda (510-620-6593) and
Councilmember Doria Robinson (510-620-6568).
AGENDA
REPORT
March 25, 2025
DISCUSSION:
The City Council would like to honor the extraordinary efforts of the Richmond Police Department—officers, detectives, and crime scene investigators—who demonstrated unparalleled dedication, urgency, and unwavering commitment to justice in response to a horrific crime against one of our most vulnerable community members.
A young courageous, elementary school student approached a Richmond Police Sergeant, Sergeant Melgoza, to report that another adult was sexually assaulting her friend and classmate.
In that moment, this officer became more than just a public servant, he became a trusted community guardian and, in many ways, a lifesaver. Without hesitation, Sergeant Melgoza and other responding officers acted swiftly, immediately contacting the victim’s family and locating the child’s whereabouts.
Through seamless collaboration with several Richmond PD staff members, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, and the Contra Costa Crime Lab, critical DNA evidence was expedited and processed with urgency, confirming the assault and securing the necessary legal foundation to keep the suspect in custody until trial.
Their availability to all community members, coupled with an immediate response, meticulous investigation, attention to detail, and steadfast pursuit of justice, have made Richmond a safer community.
Their collective efforts and actions embody the very best of law enforcement- integrity, diligence, and courage. They remind us why we trust those who wear the badge—to serve, to protect, and to stand as a beacon of justice for all.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Proclamation