For Immediate Release: May 10, 2024
OPD NEWS:
193RD Basic Recruit Academy Graduation
Today, the Oakland Police Department (OPD) welcomed 12 new officers to the OPD family as members of the 193rd Basic Recruit Academy graduated at a ceremony held at the Scottish Rite Center. "To truly be an effective officer, you have to care about the people you are serving. While you are in the community, take time to get to know the people. Get out of your car and talk to kids, interact with residents, and check in on businesses. Display kindness and concern for others," said Oakland Police Acting Chief Tony Jones.
“Oakland’s new class of officers is entering the police force at a critical time. After years of rising crime rates, Oakland is starting to turn the corner. Through the first quarter of this year, crime is down by more than 30%. This includes reductions in homicides, aggravated assaults, and burglaries. While we are optimistic about our progress, we still have a lot of work to do. Our new officers will join veteran officers in reducing crime and helping our community maintain a sense of safety,” said Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao.
Incoming Chief Floyd Mitchell was also in attendance, showing his support for the newly sworn officers.
The 193rd Academy Class is a diverse group with three females and nine males; members of the group speak multiple languages, including Spanish, Farsi, and Punjabi. The newly sworn Officers are Shiori Inamoto (Valedictorian), Jasen Sherwood, Randy Lashua, Vaseem Shah, Manvir Sandhu, Ariel Gonzalez, Kevin Molina, Masseeh Khairzadeh, Sayed Azamey, George Paiz, Milan Tuitasi, and Muhammed Zarnoor.
The graduates are a welcomed addition to our Oakland family, bringing the department's total to 716 sworn officers.