The temporary use of California Highway Patrol officers to help with calls in Oakland and surrounding areas produced dozens of arrests and the recovery of 145 stolen vehicles, authorities said.
Officers also recovered four crime-linked guns and also arrested 71 people during the initial operation. The CHP’s announcement was relayed through the officer of Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Newsom last week announced a temporary surge of 120 CHP officers to be used for a five-day period from Feb. 5-9 to aid Oakland and it surrounding areas.
“These initial surge results show that when we work together, we improve public safety,” Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao said in a statement. “The City of Oakland is grateful to Gov. Newsom’s support to boost our local efforts to dismantle criminal enterprises, arrest suspects and hold them accountable. Crime and violence don’t belong on Oakland’s streets — and the city won’t rest until a sense of safety and security is fully restored.”
Authorities said that among those arrested by the CHP was a suspect in a smash-and-grab at an Emeryville Apple store that was caught on video.
Others arrested face charges including possession of stolen property, auto theft, drug possession, felony gun possession and driving under the influence, authorities said.
Newsom in a statement said the arrests are “sending a clear message: crime will no go unchecked in Oakland and East Bay neighborhoods. I’m grateful for the men and women of the CHP who are assisting in the local-led effort to turn the tide.”
The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office will be tasked with prosecuting the cases.
Newsom said the CHP will conduct additional surge operations that will not be announced.