In response to the escalating crime rates in Oakland, California, Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, has declared the deployment of additional state officers to the city.
The move, announced on Tuesday, aims to tackle what the Governor described as an "alarming and unacceptable" surge in crime.
Newsom's office issued a press release stating that 120 officers from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will be dispatched to Oakland and the East Bay. The objective of this deployment is to enhance public safety and suppress criminal activities.
The additional officers, including specialized units, will collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to combat a range of criminal activities. These include violent crime, auto theft, cargo theft, and retail theft. The temporary deployment will also facilitate "high-visibility traffic enforcement."
The press release further detailed the operational strategy, stating, "the CHP will deploy license plate reader technology that will help identify and recover stolen vehicles, as well as specialized CHP units including K9s and air support." The heightened law enforcement presence will result in a nearly 900% increase in CHP personnel in Oakland and within Alameda County.
Governor Newsom expressed his concern over the rising crime rates in Oakland, contrasting it with the decreasing crime rates across California, including neighboring San Francisco. He stated, "Whats happening in this beautiful city and surrounding area is alarming and unacceptable. Im sending the California Highway Patrol to assist local efforts to restore a sense of safety that the hardworking people of Oakland and the East Bay demand and deserve."
Preliminary reports from the governor's office indicated a 21% increase in violent crime in Oakland in 2023. Robberies and vehicle thefts also saw a significant rise, with increases of 38% and 45%, respectively.
The crime surge has had a detrimental impact on local businesses, forcing many to close their doors and relocate. Notable closures include Denny's, which closed its only Oakland location after 54 years, and In-N-Out, which announced plans to close its Oakland establishment in March. Other businesses such as Black Bear Diner, Subway, and Starbucks have also shut down their local outlets.
In response to the escalating crime, Oakland-based Clorox Company has enhanced its safety measures, offering employees the option of security escorts to and from their vehicles. Blue Shield of California has implemented similar protective measures for its workforce.
Healthcare provider Kaiser Permanente has advised its staff to remain indoors during breaks, encouraging them to bring their own lunch or arrange for food delivery.
Oakland's Democratic Mayor Sheng Thao expressed gratitude for the additional resources, stating, "The City of Oakland is hard at work turning the tide increasing law enforcement investigations, increasing police recruitment, and investing in community and violence intervention efforts. As we work to improve public safety, Im grateful for Governor Newsom for providing these critical law enforcement resources that are a game-changer in helping us hold more criminals accountable and make Oakland safer."
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