OPD to Provide Additional Officers in the Fruitvale Neighborhood
For Immediate Release: November 9, 2023 OPD News:
In a news conference held this morning, the Oakland Police Department (OPD) presented our strategic plan to curb crime in the Fruitvale. Last week, OPD’s Chief Darren Allison, Assistant Chief Tony Jones, and Captain Jake Bassett joined Mayor Sheng Thao and community leaders, in a walk in the Fruitvale, engaging with merchants and community members. In addition, OPD’s Executive team held meetings to directly address the concerns voiced by our Fruitvale community members.
Today, Captain Bassett revealed the department's comprehensive plan, which was initiated on Wednesday, to reduce crime in the Fruitvale. The multi-faceted approach includes dedicated traffic enforcement officers, additional foot patrols, the continued presence of the Trust Building Officer, deployment of the highly visible Community Resource Vehicle, and collaboration with community members, as well as enhanced patrols by law enforcement partners.
"The implementation of these measures aims to create a safer environment for merchants and residents in the Fruitvale Business District," stated Captain Bassett. "The collaboration between law enforcement, community organizations, and local businesses is essential for the success of this initiative."
Mayor Sheng Thao commended the heightened focus on the Fruitvale community, emphasizing it as a crucial component of her broader community safety strategy. “Along with a more visible police presence, Oakland has deployed violence prevention resources in the form of safety ambassadors and a new Violence Prevention Hub staffed by crisis intervention specialists. In the coming months, we will install 300 automated license plate readers throughout the city, including in Fruitvale.”
To further dedicate our commitment to public safety, members of OPD will provide monthly updates at Fruitvale community meetings.
The Oakland Police Department is dedicated to creating a secure and thriving environment for the residents and merchants of the Fruitvale District. The department expresses gratitude for the collaborative efforts of community members and local businesses in realizing this shared goal of public safety.
