A federal jury has convicted former Antioch police officer, Devon Wenger, of one count of conspiracy against rights after a seven-day trial before Senior U.S. District Judge Jeffrey S. White. The conviction follows evidence that Wenger conspired with other officers in the Antioch Police Department to use excessive and unreasonable force against residents in Antioch, California.
The Jury's Verdict
Wenger, 33, was convicted of conspiracy to injure, oppress, threaten, and intimidate individuals under the guise of law enforcement. This conviction is significant, as it underscores the accountability law enforcement officers must face when betraying the public trust.
A U.S. Attorney emphasized the seriousness of this betrayal, stating that public trust must be at the forefront of the duty to protect. By using unnecessary and unreasonable force under the guise of law enforcement, Wenger betrayed the community he was entrusted to protect.
Evidence of Excessive Force and Deception
The evidence presented at trial revealed that Wenger, alongside fellow officers Morteza Amiri and Eric Rombough, engaged in communications about their intent to use excessive force against individuals in Antioch. The force used included the deployment of a K9, a 40mm “less lethal” launcher, and other violent measures. Additionally, Wenger was found to have deliberately omitted details about these violent actions from police reports and official records.
The actions of these officers were not only a violation of civil rights but also indicative of a systemic abuse of power within the Antioch Police Department. Their behavior has sparked significant public concern regarding law enforcement practices and accountability.
Federal Prosecution and Ongoing Investigation
The case was prosecuted by the National Security & Special Prosecutions Section and the Oakland Branch of the United States Attorney’s Office. The FBI and Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office collaborated in the investigation that led to multiple charges against ten current and former officers from both the Antioch and Pittsburgh police departments. These charges range from excessive force to fraud.
The conviction marks the second time that Wenger has been held accountable for police misconduct. Earlier this year, in April 2025, Wenger was convicted of conspiracy to distribute steroids and obstruction of justice.
Sentencing and Maximum Penalties
Following the conviction, Wenger has been remanded to custody, and his sentencing is scheduled for December 2, 2025. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. However, the final sentence will be determined by the court after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant factors under federal law.
Other Related Cases
The investigation into the Antioch and Pittsburgh police departments continues to result in numerous legal proceedings. Several other officers are facing charges for crimes such as obstruction of justice, steroid distribution, and the deprivation of rights under the color of law. Below is a brief overview of related cases:
- Morteza Amiri: Sentenced to 84 months for conspiracy and fraud in June 2025.
- Eric Rombough: Pleaded guilty to conspiracy against rights and is scheduled for a status conference in October 2025.
- Devon Wenger: Convicted of conspiracy against rights, sentencing scheduled for December 2025.
The full list of ongoing cases and the status of each can be found in the detailed legal documents and case proceedings.
Contact Police Brutality Center for Legal Support
If you or someone you know has been affected by excessive police force or civil rights violations, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel to understand your rights and pursue justice. Contact Police Brutality Center today for expert legal support. Our team is committed to defending your rights and giving you the full scope of your legal rights and options.