OPD CARES is the Department’s new initiative, as we stand with our community focusing on the prevention of violence through outreach, and engagement.
The Oakland Police Department recognizes the traumatic impact violence can have on a community, particularly amid a COVID-19 Pandemic. Any response to violence from OPD requires partnership with our community. As we plan to deploy additional resources to the areas most impacted by the violence, we remain committed to deterring further violence and identifying those responsible in a focused and intelligence-led approach.
Oakland Interim Police Chief Susan E. Manheimer said, “I walked the streets of East Oakland Monday with Councilmember Larry Reid. We met with those impacted by gun violence including a mother who lost her son. We promised we will not forget those who have lost their lives to violence in our city. We will protect our communities.”
Starting today, officers will be on foot, in patrol cars, dual-purpose motorcycles and bicycles to provide safety. We are transforming our Mobile Command Post to be used as a resource center. It will serve various neighborhoods and officers will be handing out donated surplus masks.
Deputy Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong says, “OPD CARES initiative is about all of us working together to help stop the tragic loss of life in our city, and ensure that all Oaklanders can live in a safe community,”
OPD’s Ceasefire is a proven strategy that has continued to drive violent crime down over the years. The Ceasefire team along with their new Director Rev. Damita, the independent Department of Violence Prevention, and Community Partners continue to work towards reducing gun violence by identifying groups and gangs that are driving the crime.
“Working together, our community cut gun violence in Oakland by 50 percent in just five years,” Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf said. “We must continue our vigilance to reduce the trauma and anguish caused by acts of violence. We will continue to support and uplift all residents as we work toward the shared goal of creating safer neighborhoods across our city.”
We are planning future community outreach events. If you see our officers stop by and say hello, we welcome the opportunity to meet you.