Golden State Today

Governor Newsom today announced he is increasing the deployment of state law enforcement in Oakland following the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) recovery of over a thousand stolen cars, seizure of 55 guns linked to crimes, and the arrest of 562 suspects in the East Bay since February.

Ramping up efforts to crack down on crime in the East Bay, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will increase the deployment of CHP officers in Oakland. The Governor highlighted that since February, 1,142 stolen cars have been recovered, 55 guns linked to crimes have been seized, and 562 suspects have been arrested.

As part of this expanded operation, the Governor will quadruple the number of shifts officers conduct in Oakland and increase surge operations over the next four months. This will provide a CHP presence every day of the week. Operations starting Monday will target organized crime, sideshows, carjackings, and other criminal activities seven days a week. Certain complex cases will be referred to the Office of the Attorney General for prosecution.

"While we are encouraged by some positive trends," said Governor Newsom, "the lawlessness we’re seeing on the streets of Oakland is unacceptable. Building on our partnership with local law enforcement, I’m deploying a new surge of CHP officers to help provide the people of Oakland and the East Bay with safety and security."

CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee stated: "The California Highway Patrol’s top priority is the safety and well-being of the public. In our unwavering commitment to keeping California communities safe, we will continue to work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners to create safer environments for everyone."

Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed his support: "As a longtime East Bay resident, I stand united with the Governor’s office and our state and local partners as we take necessary steps to ensure that Oakland is a safe place for families like mine." He added that when working together results are achieved: "I am proud to stand with the Oakland community."

Today's announcement builds on Governor Newsom’s strategy initiated in February focusing on combating auto theft, cargo theft, retail crime, violent crime, and high-visibility traffic enforcement. Recently installed high-tech “Flock” cameras also played a role in identifying suspects.

Earlier this year saw additional investments from Caltrans’ 10-Point Action Plan aimed at improving street safety and beautification efforts in Oakland. These include blight abatement efforts, homeless encampment resolutions among others.

In February resources were offered from California National Guard prosecutors for tackling organized drug-related criminal enterprises within Alameda County. The Governor's Office has now notified that these attorneys will be redeployed to prosecute cases originating from Alameda County under Attorney General's oversight.

Since 2019 California has invested over $1.1 billion towards fighting crime including hiring more police personnel. Earlier this year new legislation was called upon by Governor Newsom aiming at expanding criminal penalties against professional criminals involved in retail thefts among other offenses.