California Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday that he is sending additional state officers to Oakland to curb the “alarming and unacceptable” crime wave.
A press release from Newsom’s office stated that 120 California Highway Patrol officers will be sent to Oakland and the East Bay “to crack down on crime and improve public safety.”
The officers, including specialized units, will work with local law enforcement agencies to combat criminal activity, including violent crime, auto theft, cargo theft, and retail theft. Additionally, the temporary deployment will allow for “high-visibility traffic enforcement.”
“As part of this operation, 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. This enhanced law enforcement presence will represent a nearly 900% increase in CHP personnel in Oakland and within Alameda County,” the press release stated.