Alameda County launched SHIFT, a pilot using pre‑approved designs to speed small affordable housing builds and lower per‑unit costs.

Federal prosecutors unsealed an indictment charging nine people in three Oakland grow-house burglaries that prosecutors say ended in the 2023 killing of undercover Officer Tuan Le.

The family of George Salinas, who died after an incident at a UC Berkeley fraternity party, has filed a lawsuit citing negligence, including overcrowding and inadequate safety measures.

The Ninth Circuit largely upheld a contempt finding against Apple but rejected an absolute ban on off‑App Store commissions, sending the fee dispute back to the district court.

Dave’s Hot Chicken opens Friday at 2714 Pinole Valley Road in Pinole, bringing tenders, sliders and a new Spicy Bites item to the Bay Area lineup. Expect the usual heat ladder and opening‑day crowds.

State health officials say TRE House magic mushroom gummies, bars and syrup tested positive for illegal psychedelic compounds and should not be eaten.

Federal prosecutors say Maurice Herron allegedly stashed a loaded Glock in an Orinda patrol car while handcuffed; the weapon sat in the cruiser for 11 days before being found.

Michai Adams, known as ChaiBenjii4, pleaded no contest to a gun charge; prosecutors are expected to dismiss murder and assault counts at his January sentencing.

Relatives of Marcel Dupree Jones have sued Berkeley and BOSS, alleging negligence and civil‑rights violations after his 2024 death at the Ursula Sherman Village shelter.

A former finance manager was sentenced to 27 months after prosecutors say she stole more than $1.6 million from a Walnut Creek youth charity. Restitution will be set later.

Three multiagency sweeps in November removed more than 58,000 illegal cannabis plants across Lancaster, Hayward and Harbor City, officials say.

A morning blast in Ashland set off a multi‑alarm blaze on East Lewelling Boulevard; crews reported possible injuries and heavy damage. Investigators are on scene.

A nonpartisan report warns California could face a more than $1.8B shortfall next year as cap‑and‑trade receipts fall short of new fixed spending rules. Lawmakers may have to trim programs or shift costs.