Although Oakland has had a difficult year, there is reason for optimism when the final crime statistics are released, even though some companies are still experiencing recurring break-in problems.
There has been a 34% fall in homicides and a comparable decline in non-fatal shootings, according to data. You rarely hear positive news while discussing Oakland’s crime rate.
Alba Hernandez, an organizer with the organization Faith in Action East Bay, said, “It is a true joy to be here today, celebrating a significant achievement.” “As of December 22nd of this year, we are witnessing the best year for reductions of homicides since the start of the pandemic.”
On Monday, a group of advocates for violence prevention spoke to the media to celebrate statistics that showed Oakland’s homicide and shooting rates have decreased by more than a third this year. Furthermore, 2024 was being referred to as “the safest year since the start of the COVID pandemic.”
“This achievement is not by chance,” Hernandez stated. “It is the result of the Ceasefire strategy being successfully implemented by its dedicated partners.”
Targeting the retaliatory shootings that account for a large portion of the city’s gun violence, Ceasefire is a non-profit initiative managed by Oakland’s Department of Violence Prevention. By identifying those who are most prone to use firearms, it provides employment, resources, and assistance to help them change their ways.
Violence Prevention Chief Holly Joshi stated, “Ceasefire aims to identify the 250 to 350 individuals that are driving violence at any given time in this city.” “So far this year, we’ve had custom notifications and direct communications with over 200 people.”
At the news conference on Monday, the Oakland City Council was urged to continue sponsoring Ceasefire in light of the city’s $125 million financial deficit. One of the violence “interrupters” who offers advice to participants in the Ceasefire program is Pastor Billy Dixon.
“I told them that if they continue firing, these guys would come get them. But if you want, we have something for you,” he continued. “However, we also let them know that we’re not even advising them to quit doing anything else. All we’re asking is that you put down your guns and cease shooting. That’s the main takeaway.
However, that doesn’t deal with the other offenses that have damaged Oakland’s image. One team drove across the city only this past weekend, robbing many people and businesses. The only In-N-Out restaurant to ever close in the company’s history is among the many businesses that have abandoned and deserted Hegenberger Road.
Hung Tran is the owner of a local business.
“Cars are broken into, and there are other crimes. He remarked, “I am aware that they shuttered that In-N-Out there for the first time. “I’ve personally witnessed numerous crimes at In-N-Out. I have witnessed individuals breaking into cars directly in front of me.
“I have to say it’s B.S.” was his response when asked if he believed 2024 was the safest year Oakland has experienced since the pandemic.
Brenda Alvarez, an Oakland resident, believed that there was more to be afraid of in Oakland than being shot or killed.
“That’s the first thing people always ask me when they visit Oakland. “Are you afraid something will happen to you?” It’s like, “Yeah, there are a lot of possible outcomes.”
It’s not as horrible as people believe. “And that’s a fact, Jack,” Brian Rees, an Oaklander, retorted. He may be somewhat de-sensitized to it, but he believed that there were fewer small-time crimes being committed.
“They’ve fallen, personally. because there haven’t been as many automobile break-ins,” Rees explained. “There have been three break-ins. However, all of that took place on my driveway.
It turns out that opinions on Oakland’s crime risk vary even among victims. The murder rate has obviously decreased, which is a good thing, but whether or not this makes people feel safer may depend more on perception than on the fact that it is a positive statistic.
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.