Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Police Transparency topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Brentwood residents demand transparency after Yolanda Ramirez dies following police encounter
Summary
Family members and scores of residents pressed the Brentwood City Council to release bodycam and dashcam footage after 72‑year‑old Yolanda Ramirez died following an encounter with police, urging immediate accountability and clearer council action while the district attorney reviews the case.
Dozens of Brentwood residents used the council's public‑comment period Dec. 9 to demand answers and accountability in the death of 72‑year‑old Yolanda Ramirez after a Nov. incident involving Brentwood police.
Becky Ramirez Alcantar, the victim's daughter, told the City Council she and her family had reviewed privately captured footage and believe official accounts conflict with what her family has seen. "Where is the footage to back up all that they claim?" she asked, calling on elected officials to "stand and back your community" and press for release of dashcam and bodycam recordings. Her husband, Rudy Ramirez, said the officers' actions were disproportionate given his wife's mobility issues and asked, "Is Brentwood really now that much safer?" (Becky Ramirez Alcantar; Rudy Ramirez).
Multiple speakers echoed that request. Maria Dominguez, an attorney and president of the California La Raza Lawyers Association (East Bay chapter), reminded council members they have oversight responsibilities and urged them to "have the moral courage to help bring justice to Mrs. Ramirez and this family". Several residents alleged that investigators knocked on neighbors’ doors in rain soon after the council last met and described the visit as intimidating (Maria Dominguez; Rich Ramirez; other residents).
Council members repeatedly expressed sympathy and said the matter is under review. Katie (city staff) confirmed during public comment that the council has not seen the city’s body‑worn camera footage to date. Mayor Meyer and others emphasized that the district attorney’s office is involved and that certain processes and legal constraints currently limit what the city can disclose. Council Member Mendoza said, "We are listening to everyone" and asked residents to continue showing up; she said staff and council are following required procedures but could not provide additional details at this time.
What happens next: the council did not take formal action at the meeting to force the release of video. Several speakers urged the council to use its authority to agendize public‑safety oversight items; counsel and staff noted the DA’s active role in the investigation. Family members asserted they would continue to press for transparency and accountability.
Ending: The council concluded the public‑comment period and proceeded to scheduled presentations. No vote or formal council directive requiring immediate release of bodycam or dashcam video was recorded during the meeting.
