Shocking Corruption Scandal Rocks Antioch Pd: Former Officer Sentenced To 7.5 Years

Antioch's Legal Drama: A Former Officer Faces Justice

In a saga that could rival any Hollywood scandal, former Antioch police officer Devon Christopher Wenger found himself on the wrong side of the law. Convicted in a corruption scandal involving several of his former colleagues, Wenger has been sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in federal prison, federal prosecutors announced. This twist comes after two trials this year unraveled a web of offenses stretching back to 2019.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California disclosed that Wenger's first trial in April led to convictions for conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids and obstruction of justice. A subsequent trial in September convicted him of conspiracy against rights. It's clear that the scales of justice have tipped, as the court sent a strong message of accountability.

“Devon Wenger and his co-conspirators believed the badges they wore gave them a license to break the law. They were wrong," stated U.S. Attorney Craig Missakian. "Today, the court held Mr. Wenger accountable for his betrayal of the public trust placed in him.”

More Than Just Excessive Force

The September trial unveiled a disturbing narrative: Wenger alongside officers Morteza Amiri and Eric Rombough, allegedly conspired to use excessive force. This conspiracy included sending graphic pictures and messages, all highlighting an egregious abuse of power. The forceful tactics described were jarring, with the U.S. Attorney's office noting the use of a police K9, a 40mm 'less lethal' launcher, and other violent measures that exceeded any justifiable use of force.

In another twist of the tale, Wenger also faced charges linked to the distribution of anabolic steroids, showcasing a darker side of his tenure as an officer. In the shadows of the April trial, evidence revealed Wenger's orchestration of steroid sales between a fellow officer, Daniel Harris, and a third party. Despite a law enforcement interception, Wenger recklessly pursued the illegal transactions.

Shake-Up in Antioch and Beyond

Adding another layer to this unfolding drama, on March 23, 2022, the FBI descended upon Wenger's residence. The agents, armed with a warrant, took an hour to convince him to surrender. A subsequent forensic examination of his phone revealed attempts to erase incriminating evidence related to the steroid distribution.

The fallout from this scandal has been significant. Ten current and former officers and employees from the Antioch and Pittsburg police departments face charges. Morteza Amiri, having been convicted in 2024, received a 7-year sentence. Daniel Harris pled guilty and awaits his day in court, slated for January 2026.

The Antioch community, nestled in the East Bay, continues to grapple with the implications of these betrayals of trust. As the dust settles, the hope remains that such legal actions will restore faith in those sworn to protect and serve.