*Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last week that the California Highway Patrol will install hundreds of cameras around Oakland to help crack down on crime in the city.
the state has partnered with a private company to install 290 cameras on Oakland streets, and 190 will go up along freeways traversing the city and its environs, KGED reports.
The cameras will capture license plates and categorize vehicles based on their make, model, color, and distinctive features.
“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,” Newsom said in a statement.
Newsom said the 480 high-tech cameras will equip “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.
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
— California Governor (@CAgovernor) March 29, 2024
“This is proven technology where privacy is foundational,” Newsom added in a video message shared on X/Twiter (see above).
“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,” Thao added.
“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.”
Atlanta-based Flock Safety will supply the cameras. The company provides security systems and surveillance cameras to public agencies and private neighborhood watch groups, per KGED.
“The CHP has been working in partnership with the city of Oakland throughout the process, to purchase, place, and install cameras,” CHP spokesperson Jaime Coffee said.
“For every dollar we spend on surveillance cameras, that’s a dollar not spent on proven public safety strategies,” said Cat Brooks, executive director of the Anti Police-Terror Project, KGED reports.
READ MORE: California Awaits Gov. Newsom’s Approval on Ebony Alert Bill for Missing Black Youth
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