Gov. Newsom to deploy 120 more CHP officers to Oakland and East Bay

(KRON) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced plans Tuesday to deploy 120 additional California Highway Patrol officers to Oakland and the East Bay. The additional officers will “conduct a targeted law enforcement surge operation to crack down on crime,” according to a news release from the governor’s office.

The deployment will include specialized units equipped with advanced investigation technology “to crack down on crime and improve public safety,” the governor’s office said. As part of the law enforcement surge, the CHP officers will work in partnership with local law enforcement agencies on a targeted crackdown on crimes including vehicle theft, retail theft and violent crime.

“The surge of crime and violence that we are seeing in our streets is completely unacceptable,” said Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao. “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, I’m 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.”

As part of the operation, the governor’s office said, the CHP will deploy license plate reader technology, specialized units, K-9s, and air support. The surge represents a 900% increase in CHP presence in Oakland and Alameda County.

Violent crime and property crimes have surged in Oakland. In 2023, violent crime rose 21%, robbery increased 38% and vehicle theft spiked to 45%, according to figures cited by the governor’s office.

About the Author

Yosi Yahoudai is a founder and the managing partner of J&Y. His practice is comprised primarily of cases involving automobile and motorcycle accidents, but he also represents people in premises liability lawsuits, including suits alleging dangerous conditions of public property, third-party criminal conduct, and intentional torts. He also has expertise in cases involving product defects, dog bites, elder abuse, and sexual assault. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California and is admitted to practice in all California State Courts, and the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. If you have any questions about this article, you can contact Yosi by clicking here.