Newsom to install nearly 500 cameras in Oakland as crime surges

California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday announced that state authorities would install 480 surveillance cameras to monitor suspicious vehicles in the Oakland area as the city struggles with a crime wave.

The California Highway Patrol will install the cameras, which are capable of tracking key identifying characteristics of vehicles in real-time. Authorities plan to install 290 cameras on the streets of Oakland and to position the remainder along adjacent motorways in the East Bay.

"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 press release announcing the move. "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."

Crime has surged in Oakland in recent years, resulting in business closures and private action by the town's major employees to protect employees, the Washington Times reported. Notably, the popular fast food chain In-N-Out Burger closed its sole location in the city this month due to crime, marking the franchise's first ever closure.

The deployment is the result of a CHP contract with Flock Safety.

"Working alongside all our law enforcement partners, the California Highway Patrol is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Californians. These sophisticated cameras will make an important difference — and make the entire East Bay region safer," CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.