The Governor Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday that it is increasing state law enforcement personnel in Oakland and the East Bay, temporarily deploying California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers, including specialized units, and advanced investigative technology to combat crime. crime and improve public safety.
As part of the announcement, the CHP will begin a surge enforcement operation in Oakland and the East Bay, deploying 120 officers who will work in partnership with local law enforcement agencies in a targeted crackdown on criminal activity, including vehicle theft, retail theft and violent crimes.
?As crime rates in California decline, even across the San Francisco Bay, Oakland is seeing the opposite trend. What is happening in and around this beautiful city is alarming and unacceptable. “I will send the California Highway Patrol to assist local efforts to restore the sense of security that the working people of Oakland and the East Bay demand and deserve,” said Governor Newsom.
For his part, Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao pointed out that the increase in crime and violence experienced on the streets of Oakland is completely unacceptable.
"The city of Oakland is working hard to turn the tide: increasing police investigations, increasing police recruitment, and investing in anti-violence and community intervention efforts," he said.
The CHP surge operation will focus on combating auto and cargo theft, retail crime, violent crime and high-visibility traffic enforcement.
As part of this operation, the CHP will deploy license plate reading technology that will help identify and recover stolen vehicles, as well as specialized CHP units, including K9s and air support. This increased police presence will represent a nearly 900 percent increase in CHP personnel in Oakland and within Alameda County.
The targeted operation will not affect service levels in the surrounding area. The duration of the operation will be determined in consultation with local authorities.
And crime in Oakland is increasing uniquely compared to other urban centers in California. Preliminary reports from the city indicate that in 2023, violent crime increased 21 percent, robberies increased 38 percent and vehicle theft increased 45 percent.
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