Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds San Leandro Police Chief Angela Averiett After Hit-and-Run Incident
4/5/2026, 11:44:35 AM
Incident Overview: Hit-and-Run Allegations
San Leandro Police Chief Angela Averiett is facing scrutiny following an alleged hit-and-run incident that occurred on Interstate 580 near Dublin, California. The incident took place last year when Averiett, driving her department-issued Jeep, reportedly clipped a family’s vehicle while veering from the shoulder into a lane occupied by the family returning from a San Francisco Giants game. Daffani Ryan, the driver of the affected vehicle, described the collision as sounding like a "shotgun blast" and immediately contacted 911 to report the incident.
Chief's Defense and Investigation Findings
In her account to investigators, Averiett claimed she was unaware that a collision had occurred and did not hear any impact, despite both vehicles sustaining matching damage. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) investigated the incident but ultimately declined to pursue hit-and-run charges based on Averiett's assertion of ignorance regarding the collision. This decision has raised questions about the treatment of the case, particularly as Ryan reported that a San Leandro Police lieutenant later contacted her, offering to cover the damages if she refrained from reporting the incident.
Internal Complaints and Allegations of Preferential Treatment
The incident has sparked broader concerns within the San Leandro Police Department, as evidenced by a recent internal complaint filed by Sergeant Mike Olivera. The complaint outlines a "troubling pattern of lack of accountability, selective enforcement, and concealment of violations" attributed to Averiett. Mike Rains, the attorney for the San Leandro Police Officers’ Association, expressed concerns that Averiett received preferential treatment, which has reportedly diminished morale among officers who feel that the chief is not held to the same standards as regular officers.
Official Statements & Responses
The San Leandro Police Department has not publicly commented on the specifics of the incident or the internal complaint. However, the situation has been described as damaging to the department's morale, with union leaders indicating that the perception of special treatment for Averiett is widespread among rank-and-file officers.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Averiett's actions, including members of the San Leandro Police Officers’ Association, argue that the chief's alleged behavior undermines public trust in law enforcement. The offer made by a lieutenant to pay for damages in exchange for silence has particularly fueled allegations of misconduct and favoritism within the department.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just got hit by a police officer,” — Daffani Ryan, Victim
This incident involving Chief Angela Averiett continues to unfold, raising significant questions about accountability and transparency within the San Leandro Police Department.
