72-year-old woman dies after interaction with Brentwood, CA police

BRENTWOOD, Calif. — A 72-year-old woman died a week after a police encounter that her family says involved excessive force.

Yolanda Ramirez, a retired Contra Costa Health Services worker, went unconscious in a Brentwood patrol car on Sept. 26. Paramedics rushed her to a hospital, where she remained on life support until her Oct. 3 death, according to a legal claim filed last week.

Yolanda Ramirez’s Family Alleges Brutality by Brentwood police

Ramirez’s relatives accuse Brentwood officers of slamming her head against a patrol car and dragging her inside while handcuffed. The claim says she cried in pain before collapsing. Witnesses reported she was unconscious and covered in vomit when paramedics arrived.

Attorney Melissa Nold, representing the family, said at least six eyewitnesses saw the incident. She alleges officers ignored Ramirez’s distress for 10 minutes before calling medical help.

Police Response Under Scrutiny

Brentwood police never publicly acknowledged Ramirez’s death, an unusual move in Contra Costa County, where outside reviews are standard. Chief Walter O’Grodnick did not respond to requests for comment.

In a Facebook statement, the department said Ramirez appeared to suffer a medical issue in the patrol car. Prosecutors were told she died of a stroke, though her family disputes that account.

Witness Accounts Differ

Neighbors told Ramirez’s son, Rich Ramirez, they saw his mother on her knees, handcuffed, while officers searched her purse and car. Rich Ramirez told ABC7 News his mother had gone to her brother’s home that morning to take him to a medical appointment.

Police initially cited resisting arrest, but prosecutors were told she was booked for disturbing the peace. Her car was impounded, preventing her husband from retrieving it.

Legal Action Ahead

Nold alleges investigators have not interviewed eyewitnesses. She plans to file a lawsuit alleging abuse and a cover-up. Officer Aaron Peachman, identified in the claim, denies wrongdoing. His attorney said Peachman followed policy and submitted a detailed report.

Remembering Ramirez

Ramirez’s obituary described her as devoted to family, known for her humor and generosity. “She should still be here,” her son said.

The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has opened an investigation, ABC 7 reports. Ramirez’s family continues to demand answers, insisting her death was preventable.