The Oakland Police Department’s primary focus is public safety and providing service professionally and respectfully. The Department has increased its presence in West Oakland as a result of challenges with crime. Residents have continued to voice their concerns about criminal activity in the area including shootings, assaults, sale and use of narcotics. Within the last two months, eight stolen vehicles have been recovered from that area.
As part of our dedication to providing equitable public service, On May 16, 2020, at 5:39 p.m. OPD officers were patrolling in the 1600 block of Wood Street, when they came upon a vehicle believed to be stolen. The patrol car’s computer database alerted the Officer of a “possibly stolen property." History has informed us that stolen vehicles can be used in connection with other serious crimes.
Upon initiating the stop, the officers detained two subjects believed to be associated with the vehicle. As part of our commitment to the tenets of procedural justice, the officers were respectful and explained every step of the process. Once reviewing the vehicle identification number (VIN), it was learned the vehicle was not stolen. The officers immediately apologized for the inconvenience and released those detained. At no time was force used against the individuals.
For the entirety of the process, our Officer's body-worn cameras were activated, and our supervisors have reviewed that activity. We continue to ask our community for their help to deter crime in the area and citywide. If you see something, say something.
The Oakland Police Department abides by the philosophy of being a continuously learning organization. This case was forwarded to Internal Affairs Division for review.
Background information:
At the end of April 2020, in the 3400 block of Wood Street, A female was assaulted with a bat fracturing her skull. At the end of March 2020, in the 2400 block of Wood Street, there was a shooting within the encampment. Other significant events in the area include the following in 2200 block of Wood St.
(16May20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle – Suspect Arrest)
(11May20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle – Suspect Arrest)
(03May20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle – Suspect Arrest)
(28Apr20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle – No Arrest)
(19Apr20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle – Suspect Arrest)
(19Apr20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle – Suspect Arrest)
(18Apr20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle – No Arrest)
(04Apr20; Recovered Stolen Vehicle)
(30Mar20; An individual brandished a Shotgun at another individual - No Arrest)