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The Sacramento Brief — Thursday, December 18, 2025 Top Stories Sheriff’s North Patrol deputies arrested Mitchell Smith after a brief pursuit ended in a crash. Smith fled a traffic stop for a missing rear license plate, collided with another vehicle, and crashed into a curb. No injuries were reported. Smith had multiple outstanding felony warrants and was on post-release community supervision. He was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail without bail. Sacramento Police Department arrested a man Wednesday afternoon following a pursuit involving a child. Officers responding to a welfare check on the 1400 block of 30th Street learned the suspect fled with his child in the car. The pursuit was terminated due to conditions. The child was safely dropped off with a family member. The suspect was later located and arrested on child endangerment and pursuit-related charges. Roseville Police Department and California Highway Patrol are investigating after a stolen dump truck crashed on Highway 50 following a multi-mile pursuit. The chase began near Angus Road around 4:30 p.m. The dump truck flipped just before 5 p.m. The investigation remains ongoing. City Watch Alert Sacramento County Public Health reports a spike in local Salmonella cases tied to a statewide outbreak linked to Vega Farms eggs from Dixon. Statewide cases: 66 total; Sacramento County: 49 cases. 13 hospitalizations reported; no deaths. A voluntary recall is in effect. Residents and businesses should not eat, sell, or serve recalled in-shell eggs. Consumers should discard recalled eggs or return them for a refund and sanitize affected surfaces. Recall details and product photos: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/NR25-025.aspx Weather Wednesday: Sunny, high of 65. Thursday: Partly cloudy, high of 58. Temperatures trending warmer after an extended stretch of cooler days. Events SacTech Social December Meetup Hop Gardens, 2904 Franklin Blvd | 6–8 p.m. Networking night for Sacramento’s tech community. Apps and pizza provided. RSVP: https://www.meetup.com/sactechsocial/events/311881089/ D&D n RPGs Game Night Great Escape Games | 6–9 p.m. All RPG systems welcome. Pre-generated characters and dice available. Details: https://www.meetup.com/dndnrpgs/events/312218091/
I’m Carol — it’s Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Let’s get you caught up. A police chase near Cal Expo Tuesday afternoon ended with two arrests and multiple vehicles damaged, according to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies say just after 5 p.m., they attempted to stop a vehicle near Challenge Way and Exposition Boulevard involving known gang members and associates. The driver led deputies on a short pursuit, striking several civilian vehicles. Authorities say no injuries were reported, but two illegal firearms with extended magazines were recovered. Two suspects were arrested, and one remains outstanding. And in another case earlier this month, officers with the Sacramento Police Department Problem Oriented Policing unit spotted an RV with expired registration in the 3800 block of Florin Road. During contact, officers learned the owner was on probation. A probation search uncovered a machine gun with a silencer, ammunition, and a small amount of cocaine. The RV owner, 63-year-old Gary Elliott of Sacramento, was arrested on weapons and drug-related charges. [CITY WATCH] The holidays are meant to feel joyful, but for many, they bring complicated emotions. Family gatherings can reopen old wounds or deepen the grief of missing someone you love. If this season feels heavier, that’s okay. Taking pauses, setting gentle boundaries, and allowing yourself to feel can make a difference. Support is available through Sacramento County Behavioral Health Services. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call or text 988 — you don’t have to carry it alone. [WEATHER] A 70% chance of rain today, with a high near 64 degrees. [EVENTS] Tonight in Sacramento — three easy ways to get into the holiday mood. Book Wreath Making at Teneral Cellars starts at 6:30 p.m. — $45, including materials, instruction, and a glass of wine, at 1050 20th Street.https://teneralcellars.orderport.net/product-details/0224/book-wreath-making-class Prefer to sit back and enjoy the show? A Christmas Carol, Sam Kebede’s fresh adaptation, runs now through December 28 at 2700 Capitol Avenue. https://bstreettheatre.org/mainstage/a-christmas-carol-2025/ And wrap the night with free live music — Rusty Sterling performs at 7 p.m. at the Fox & Goose, 1001 R Street. Tips welcome, cozy vibes guaranteed. https://foxandgoose.com/events/#events
I’m Carol. It’s Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Let’s get you caught up. NEWS Officers made an arrest Friday afternoon following a reported brandishing incident near Cedar Ridge Apartments. Just after 3 p.m., police responded to the 4900 block of Mack Road for reports of a suspect displaying a firearm. Officers located the suspect vehicle, conducted a traffic stop, recovered an illegally possessed firearm, and arrested the suspect on related charges. A Sacramento County judge has ordered a defendant to repay more than $132,000 for felony workers’ compensation fraud. The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office says Gustavo Cisneros was convicted in 2024 after exaggerating injuries and filing multiple workers’ comp claims using different Social Security numbers and dates of birth. At a December 10 hearing, Judge Kenneth Brody ordered full restitution of $132,023.59. CITY WATCH Sacramento Regional Transit has secured $25.8 million in Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities funding — part of $126 million total for the region. The investment delivers new low-floor light rail vehicles, station and signal upgrades, and supports 546 affordable homes, cutting emissions equal to 67,000 cars per year. https://sgc.ca.gov/grant-programs/ahsc/ WEATHER A modest warm-up today with a high near 52 this afternoon. Temperatures ease back into the upper 40s tonight, with rain arriving tomorrow and unsettled conditions heading into midweek. EVENTS Trivia for a Great Cause: Toys for Tots runs Tuesday, December 16, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Empress Tavern, beneath the Crest Theatre. Admission is free — bring a new, unwrapped toy as your ticket to play. Teams up to six, prizes for top finishers, food and drinks available, and solo players welcome. https://www.empresstavern.com/calendar Swiftie Paint, Sip & Sing: The Era’s Tour hits Tuesday, December 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Shop Midtown. Celebrate every era of Taylor Swift with painting, sing-alongs, themed outfits, and sparkle. Tickets are $65, 21+, and include all supplies, a $20 food and drink voucher, and a surprise gift. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/swiftie-paint-sip-sing-the-eras-tour-tickets-1976378277631 B Street Theatre is enrolling kids and teens in acting classes for Winter and Spring 2026, with Saturday sessions for ages 6 to 17. Classes focus on acting fundamentals through theatre games, improvisation, movement, voice, and performance. Sessions run January 17–March 7 and March 28–May 16. Cost is $350 per session, with $25 off for siblings or multiple enrollments. https://bstreettheatre.org/education/youth-class-sign-up/kids-classes/
I’m Carol. It’s Monday, December 15, 2025. Let’s get to it. If you were off the grid this weekend, here’s what you need to know as we roll into Monday. A pedestrian was killed in a multi-vehicle crash on Stockton Boulevard near Elsie Avenue just after 4 p.m. Late Saturday night, officers were called to the 3000 block of Marysville Boulevard just before 2 a.m. after reports of gunfire. Investigators located evidence of a shooting, but no injuries were reported. Officers documented the scene, and the investigation remains active. Earlier that evening, near North B Street and Dos Rios Street, officers contacted a suspect known from a recent drug-sales arrest. During that contact, police located multiple bindles of narcotics and an illegally possessed, loaded firearm. The suspect was arrested on related charges. And before the night wrapped, officers conducted a bicycle stop near 43rd Street and 4th Avenue. Two individuals were contacted—both were found to have outstanding felony warrants and were arrested. In other news, the District Attorney’s Office says Daniel Robinson, also known as Aurora Nova, was convicted of multiple felony sex crimes against two children. He now faces up to 162 years to life in prison, with sentencing scheduled for January 23rd. https://www.sacda.org/2025/12/defendant-convicted-of-sexually-abusing-two-girls/ One busy weekend—investigations ongoing, arrests made, and officers staying proactive as we head into a new week. [CITY WATCH] Sacramento has released its weekly homelessness response report. From December 1st through 7th, the City received 583 calls to 311, opening more than 2,100 cases and closing nearly 3,000. Outreach teams enrolled 115 people into services, placed 20 into shelter or navigation centers, and removed more than 91,000 pounds of trash. Shelter space remains limited citywide. https://sacramentocityexpress.com/2025/12/12/data-report-how-the-city-responded-to-homelessness-dec-1-7/ [WEATHER] We’re looking at a high near 51 degrees today. Mostly cloudy conditions are expected—no sunshine on the forecast, though we did catch a brief peek yesterday. [EVENTS] The Elk Grove Community Concert Band is hosting a free Holiday Concert Monday night at Joseph Kerr Middle School. The concert starts at 7 p.m. and features professional musicians, community members, and students. Admission is free, with donations encouraged. https://www.elkgrovecommunityband.org And A Very Sinatra Christmas Special takes over The Citizen Hotel Monday night. Enjoy classic holiday favorites made famous by Frank Sinatra inside the Metropolitan Terrace Ballroom. The show runs from 8:30 to 9:45 p.m. Tickets are $45, with seating assigned on arrival. https://feverup.com/m/143320
Roseville Police have arrested a carjacking suspect after a coordinated overnight investigation. Officers responded to Sutter Roseville Medical Center on December 9 after a woman was seriously injured during a carjacking in the parking lot. Police say the suspect asked for a ride, then took the vehicle by force — striking the victim and a parked car as he fled. The suspect, 30-year-old Christian Somerville of Orangevale, was located and arrested within sixteen hours with help from Folsom Police and the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. He faces multiple felony charges, including carjacking and assault with a deadly weapon. https://www.instagram.com/p/DSI9YisjIVo/ Sacramento Police will conduct a DUI checkpoint Friday from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at an undisclosed location within city limits. Officers remind drivers that alcohol, drugs, and some medications can impair driving. A first DUI can cost more than $13,000. Funding is provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety. https://apps.sacpd.org/Releases/liveview.aspx?reference=20251211-078 Sacramento County’s Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services has been named Clear Impact’s first-ever Social Sector Hero of the Year, recognizing measurable results, transparency, and community impact. https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/department-of-child-family-and-adult-services-awarded-for-commit.html#gsc.tab=0 Weather remains foggy with highs in the mid 40s. Events: Tonight at 7, the Winter Wonderland Jazz Concert takes place at the Westlake Clubhouse in Natomas. Carol Manson performs with the Blue Skies Band, featuring saxophonist Byron Colborn. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-jazz-concert-carol-manson-the-blue-skies-band-with-byron-colborn-tickets-1560084648179?aff=oddtdtcreator Also tonight, comedian Key Lewis performs at Laughs Unlimited with shows at 7:30 and 9:30. https://www.laughsunlimited.com/events/118111 Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m., Elk Grove Fine Arts Center hosts Working with Transfers 101 with Judy Lim. https://elkgrovefineartscenter.org/product/december-13-working-with-transfers-101-with-judy-lim/ Sunday morning, enjoy Breakfast with Santa aboard the Delta King. https://deltaking.ticketspice.com/breakfast-with-santa From 11 to 1 Sunday, Amazing Dogs Rescue hosts an adoption event at PetSmart on Watt Avenue. https://amazingdogsrescue.org/event/puppy-rescue-dog-adoption-event-at-sacramento-petsmart-on-12-14-2025/
THE SACRAMENTO BRIEF — December 11, 2025 I’m Carol. Let’s get you caught up. NEWS Downtown Homicide Arrest Sacramento Police have arrested an 18-year-old suspect in a September homicide near 11th & K. Officers responded just before 11 p.m. on September 2 and found a man with severe blunt-force injuries. He later died at the hospital. After months of follow-up work, detectives identified Dominick Curtisgreen of Carmichael, who was arrested on December 9 and booked on homicide charges. The victim’s name will be released after next-of-kin notification. Carjacking Pursuit — Kokomo Drive Late Tuesday night, officers spotted a recently carjacked vehicle in the 4800 block of Kokomo Drive. When they attempted a stop, the driver fled. Several suspects bailed out on foot after the vehicle slowed. A perimeter was set, and three individuals were detained and arrested on related charges. CITY WATCH Sacramento County Supervisors have approved a multi-year plan to launch a Flexible Housing Pool, creating a coordinated system that links rental assistance, housing navigation, and supportive services for Medi-Cal members at risk of homelessness. The County will partner with local health plans, and Brilliant Corners will manage subsidies and landlord support. This positions Sacramento County as a statewide leader ahead of new CalAIM requirements in 2026. 🔗 https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/board-approves-flexible-housing-pool-to-address-homelessness.html#gsc.tab=0 WEATHER Fogged in again — expect tule fog throughout the day and a high of 46°. GETTING AROUND TOWN If you’re heading to SMF, allow extra time. Northbound I-5 has a daytime lane closure from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Caltrans crack-seal work. Delays are expected. 🔗 https://x.com/CaltransDist3/status/1998911168757514400 EVENTS Jingle Jazz Christmas Concert — 7:30 PM Their East Coast and L.A. run sold out — and tonight the holiday jazz magic hits Northern California for the first time. Featuring Gino Rosaria, BK Jackson, and Erin Stevenson, whose resume includes performing with Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, and Duran Duran. Doors open at 6:30. Venue: 2700 Capitol Avenue. 🔗 https://bstreettheatre.org/box-office/buy-tickets West End Blues — Final Concert For a deeper dive into Sacramento’s jazz legacy, the West End Blues series closes tonight with a journey from the early 1900s to 1970. Roger Smith (formerly of Tower of Power) joins the Harley White Jr. Orchestra for this special performance. Doors at 6; music 6:30–8:30 at the Sacramento History Museum, 101 I Street. Tickets $35–$60 and include light appetizers and drinks. 🔗 https://sachistorymuseum.org/events/a-sacramento-jazz-story-west-end-blues/ MUSIC CREDIT News theme composed by Steven OXEN.
The Sacramento Brief — December 10, 2025 NEWS SPD & Downtown Commons Open New Bike Unit Office Sacramento Police and Downtown Commons are launching a new SPD Bike Unit office at 320 K Street, giving officers a dedicated deployment point in the downtown core. The department says it will boost visibility, responsiveness, and community connection. DOCO leaders call it a shared investment in a safer, more vibrant downtown. The Bike Unit is expected to be fully operational by early 2026. Vandalism Call Leads to Assault & Foot Pursuit Elsewhere in the city, officers responding to a vandalism call on Northfield Drive saw the suspect assault the victim on scene. When officers stepped in, the suspect ran — but was caught quickly and booked into Juvenile Hall on multiple charges. Suspicious Person Stop on Stockton Blvd Earlier the same morning, officers stopped a suspicious person along 5600 Stockton Boulevard. That individual also tried to flee, but was detained. Officers say the suspect attempted to discard narcotics during the chase; the drugs were recovered, and the suspect was arrested. CITY WATCH Weather Respite Activation Sacramento County is activating a weather respite site as this cold, foggy system lingers. Starting Thursday at 2 p.m., the Warren E. Thornton Youth Center will offer shelter through Monday morning, with an extension possible. 18+ only. Pets allowed with crates provided. Guests receive meals, cots, showers, restrooms, and device charging. Before traveling, call 2-1-1 to check capacity. SacRT is offering free rides to support access. 🔗 County details: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/county-activates-weather-respite-beginning-december-11.html#gsc.tab=0 WEATHER Fog hangs around again today. Expect a chilly start, a high near 46°, and almost no chance of sun. EVENTS Wee Wednesday at the Crocker A playful, interactive gallery adventure for little ones ages 3–5. Two sessions on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Kids explore art through storytelling and guided engagement that builds confidence and creativity. Free for members and children; $15 general admission. Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome when space allows. 🔗 Event link: https://www.crockerart.org/events/3998/wee-wednesday ArtMix: Grinchmas at the Crocker Looking for something festive and grown-up? The Crocker’s holiday ArtMix: Grinchmas returns Thursday, Dec. 11, from 6–9 p.m. Expect drag performances, live DJs, holiday mischief, hands-on artmaking, and a cheeky White Elephant exchange. Free for members; $25 for nonmembers. 🔗 Event link: https://www.crockerart.org/events/3880/artmix-grinchmas
The Sacramento Brief – December 9, 2025 CHP arrests a suspect in the Downtown shooting, Sacramento County opens $1 million in TOT grants, fog hangs over the Valley, and two festive events light up your Tuesday night. NEWS CHP has arrested the suspect tied to Sunday’s shooting at 8th and K. Officers say 27-year-old Andrew Jimenez of Apple Valley was taken into custody after a pursuit and booked into the Placer County Jail on firearm and evasion charges. Two people were hospitalized in that Downtown incident as businesses and city leaders continue raising concerns over recent violence. CITY WATCH Sacramento County is opening $1 million in TOT grants for local nonprofits. Applications run Jan. 5 – Feb. 6, all online. A virtual workshop on Jan. 20 will walk applicants through eligibility and proposal strategy. Final awards will be made by the Board of Supervisors in June, with grant agreements rolling out in July. (These grants are funded by the transient occupancy tax in unincorporated Sacramento County.) Grant Info: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/tot-grant-program-available-for-local-non-profits.html#gsc.tab=0 WEATHER High around 53°, with dense Valley fog hanging on through much of the day. EVENTS Torch Club – Annual Holiday Party Tuesday, Dec. 9 • 5:30–8 p.m. Live music from William Mylar & Friends, guest artists, and a crowd-favorite sing-along. No cover, but $20 donations support Meals on Wheels in Sacramento County. 21+ • 904 15th Street Event link: https://www.torchclub.net Mas Taco Bar – Holiday Bartending Class Tuesday, Dec. 9 • 6 p.m. Craft two holiday cocktails, enjoy dinner, and dive into games, prizes, and full ugly-sweater energy. 1800 15th Street Event link: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/holiday-bartending-classes-mas-taco-bar-4795024 🎧 About The Sacramento Brief Your hyper-local morning update on news, government, weather, and events across Sacramento. Hosted by Carol. New episodes drop at 6:00 AM.
Show Notes NEWS Sheriff’s deputies uncovered a major drug operation in South Sacramento over the weekend. A raid on Bar Du Lane revealed more than $2.5 million in processed marijuana, THC wax, mushrooms, cash, and illegal firearms. The suspected operator — 45-year-old Joseph Marques, a local security company owner — was not at the home and is believed to be in Mexico. Three adults on scene were arrested on drug and weapons charges. The investigation continues. Elsewhere in the city, Sacramento Police responded to an assault call around 3 p.m. Saturday. One person suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Bike officers, with help from the Public Safety Camera Network, tracked down the suspect who initially fled. He was arrested on related charges. Police are also investigating a Sunday morning shooting near 8th and K streets. Officers found two people with non-life-threatening injuries; both were taken to the hospital. No suspect has been detained. And just a short time later, around 1:45 a.m., officers stopped a vehicle on northbound I-5 near West El Camino Avenue. During the stop, officers spotted a loaded firearm inside the car. The driver was arrested on DUI and firearm-related charges. CITY WATCH The Colonial Heights Library is postponing its reopening. A critical utility component still hasn’t been installed, meaning the building can’t maintain temperature. The library will reopen in two phases: basic services first, followed by renovated meeting and study rooms in early 2026. Visitors should expect a lighter book collection and some construction activity as millwork and shelving are completed, but core services — holds pickup, public computers, printing, Wi-Fi — will be available. Source: https://www.saclibrary.org/news/colonial-heights-library-will-reopen-two-phases WEATHER Expect a high of 46° today with persistent fog across the Valley. No sunshine in today’s forecast. EVENTS If you’ve been wanting to glide across the floor like the pros, Monday nights are made for it. Spotlight Ballroom in West Sacramento is hosting its Beginning Ballroom and Latin Dance Series, a fun, drop-in class that teaches a different dance each week — from Waltz, Tango, and Foxtrot to Rumba, Salsa, and Cha Cha. No partner needed — just comfortable shoes and a little rhythm. And yes, you can still make it tonight. Class runs 7:15–8:00 PM at 2534 Industrial Blvd., Suite 150 in West Sacramento. Admission starts at $13. Details: https://spotlightballroom.com
SHOW NOTES — Friday, December 5, 2025 CITY WATCH • Safer Sacramento “Ripple Effect” documentary series earns a 2025 Shorty Impact Award Link: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/-the-ripple-effect-project-wins-award.html#gsc.tab=0 TRAFFIC / ROAD CLOSURES • Stockton Blvd on-ramp to eastbound US-50 — 55-hour closure (Dec 5, 9 p.m. to Dec 8, 5 a.m.) Link: https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-3/d3-projects/d3-us-50-hov-lane-0h08u • California International Marathon road closures (Sunday, Dec 7, Folsom to Capitol) Link: https://runsra.org/road-closures-for-dec-7-california-international-marathon-2025/ EVENTS – FRIDAY • Fido Fridays at Midtown Lounge Link: https://www.midtownloungesac.com/events • Winter Wonderland Speakeasy & Craft Fair – Flower Fist Art Market Link: https://www.flowerfistartmarket.com/events EVENTS – SATURDAY • Sacramento Holiday Cruise – City Cruises, Old Sacramento Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/sacramento-holiday-cruise/ • Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament – Docent-led tours Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/cathedral-tours/ • Xfinity Free Skate at the Ice Rink – Ali Youssefi Square Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/xfinity-free-skate-at-the-ice-rink/ EVENTS – SUNDAY • BoomBox Bingo with Geeks Who Drink Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/boombox-bingo-with-geeks-who-drink/ • Afternoon Tea – AC Hotel Downtown Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/afternoon-tea/