By Joanna Putman
Police1
OAKLAND, Calif. — Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the state would be installing nearly 500 cameras in Oakland to aid police in combatting “criminal activity and freeway violence, a news release states.
The network of 480 Flock Safety cameras will will enable law enforcement to search for crime-linked vehicles by vehicle type, make, color, license plate state, missing/covered plates, and other unique features (e.g., bumper stickers, decals, and roof racks). The system also enables real-time crime alerts, alerting authorities when a suspected crime-linked vehicle is spotted by the network.
“This investment marks another step forward in our commitment to bolstering public safety and tackling organized crime and roadway violence in Oakland and across California,” Gov. Newsom said. “With the installation of this 480 high-tech camera network, we’re equipping law enforcement with the tools they need to effectively combat criminal activity and hold perpetrators accountable — building safer, stronger communities for all Californians.”
480 new high-tech cameras are being installed along freeways and in Oakland to make the area safer.
— California Governor (@CAgovernor) March 29, 2024
These will help law enforcement identify vehicles linked to crimes using real-time information and alerts.
We’re building safer, stronger communities for all Californians. pic.twitter.com/x6kekxUK3e
The cameras will have a 28-day memory retention period and footage will only be accessible by California law enforcement, according to the report. The system will also allow for real-time crime alerts, which will notify authorities when a suspected crime-linked vehicle is captured by a camera.
“Improving public safety and addressing quality of life issues in Oakland is my top priority,” said Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao. “This new camera network will help us stop crime and hold more suspects accountable. On behalf of all Oaklanders, I want to thank the Governor and the California Highway Patrol for their ongoing commitment and investments in the city.”
The announcement comes as an additional installment of the state’s crackdown on crime, including a CHP increased enforcement operation focused on combatting theft, retail crime and violent crime, according to the release. The operation has resulted in 200 arrests and 400 recovered stolen vehicles.
“Working alongside all our law enforcement partners, the California Highway Patrol is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Californians,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “These sophisticated cameras will make an important difference — and make the entire East Bay region safer.”