On March 9, U.S. Marshals chased the wrong man in Oakland, leading to activist Jabari Shaw, a friend, and his daughter getting into a car crash in East Oakland. Initial media reports labeled the “suspect” as a “violent fugitive.” Activists quickly mobilized and used social media to counter that story when the man turned out to be Jabari Shaw, a college student, father, and well known Oakland anti-police brutality activist. Community Ready Corps (C.R.C.) is raising questions about the surveillance of community organizers by the Oakland Police Department and U.S. Marshalls.

Plainclothes marshals conducting surveillance had mistaken Shaw. Using unmarked cars, they surrounded the car he was in, drew their weapons, and even blocked a car door, according to Shaw. In fear, the driver, Mary Valencourt, sped off with Shaw and his four-year-old daughter, Anniya, in the backseat. All three were hospitalized.

Shaw, who was not charged with a crime, limped out of Highland Hospital on March 9. He has returned several times due to ongoing pain, which includes pain in his ribs and his arm. He also feels traumatized each time he sees police. Doctors told Shaw that Valencourt might not walk again. Shaw’s greatest concern is his daughter, whose leg was broken and who is now afraid to leave their home. With his hospital bills mounting, friends and supporters held a fundraiser at East Side Cultural Center on March 29.

Community raises funds for Oakland activist Jabari Shaw | Attack on Jabari Shaw, daughter, & Mary Carmen Valencourt by US Marshals, FBI, and OPD | Justice 4 Jabari, Anniyah, & Mary || See Also: Black Community Control of the Police | US Marshal's can be SO rude!