Golden State Today

Governor Newsom urges Oakland to reconsider policy that limits police pursuits

Jul 26, 2024

SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom has sent a letter to Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, the Oakland City Council, and the Oakland Police Commission urging officials to reconsider an Oakland Police Department (OPD) policy that restricts law enforcement’s ability to pursue suspects. This follows his recent directive increasing California Highway Patrol presence in the city for ongoing surge operations.

In his letter, Governor Newsom expressed appreciation for local collaboration on public safety initiatives and highlighted state efforts including increased CHP presence, deployment of high-tech Flock highway safety cameras, and utilization of California National Guard resources. "These efforts depend on cooperation among state and local leaders," he wrote.

The governor noted that earlier this month he directed the CHP to quadruple shifts in Oakland over four months, targeting organized crime and other criminal activities. He cited tangible results from these operations: "Just two days after my announcement...that operation resulted in five felony arrests, eight DUIs, the recovery of eight stolen vehicles, and the seizure of two firearms."

However, Newsom pointed out challenges observed by CHP during their operations. He mentioned that criminals often flee with impunity due to OPD's restrictive pursuit policy. "They observed suspects attempting to escape arrest by using the same routes," he said.

Newsom compared Oakland's policy with other California jurisdictions where vehicle pursuits are allowed for certain crimes. He emphasized that OPD generally permits pursuits only for “violent forcible crimes” or crimes involving firearms. "This means...local police in Oakland cannot pursue individuals suspected of committing many felonies [or] any misdemeanor," he added.

Acknowledging the dangers associated with vehicle pursuits, Newsom stressed the importance of balancing risks and benefits. He supported a recent City Council action directing a review of OPD’s pursuit policy and urged reconsideration for broader circumstances under which pursuits should be permitted.

"I am committed to improving public safety in Oakland and throughout California," concluded Newsom. "Let’s continue to make progress together."

Governor Gavin Newsom