Oakland’s only In-N-Out eatery is set to close its doors in March due to rising crime, a move that has sparked a debate among community members and city leaders. Denny Warnick, the company’s chief operating officer, cited a pattern of car break-ins, property damage, theft, and armed robberies involving customers and employees as the reason for the closure. Some residents attribute the ongoing crime problem to Mayor Sheng Thao’s leadership and have started a movement to recall her. On the other hand, the mayor has emphasized her efforts to enhance police presence and implement technology to address criminal activities in the area, while also seeking support from regional and state officials to protect the city’s gateway to the airport. Additionally, there are concerns about state and local laws that are seen as hindering law enforcement efforts. The closure has drawn attention nationwide, with some conservative commentators using it to support their assertion that crime is rampant in the liberal Bay Area.
Oakland City Councilmember Treva Reid acknowledges the challenging situation in her district, where criminal activities have forced numerous businesses to shutter. Reid has been advocating for a regional interagency public safety task force to combat the problem comprehensively, as the current fragmented approach has proved insufficient. Despite some progress, with a 40% reduction in crime reported in the district, concerns persist among business owners. In response, Reid has convened regular meetings gathering various stakeholders to address the issue, while also securing funding for community safety initiatives. However, the broader crime data from the Oakland Police Department indicate a 21% increase in violence across the city, reinforcing the urgency for a more concerted approach to public safety.
The Oakland Police Department has been without a permanent police chief since last February, and the rejection of three potential candidates by Mayor Thao has been met with criticism. Calls for a dedicated task force to improve public safety and provide regular progress updates have not been heeded. Despite the challenges, Reid remains committed to establishing a regional task force to tackle the crime issues in her district, highlighting the importance of ongoing community support beyond the immediate aftermath of In-N-Out’s closure.
