Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) announced its Summer Safety Plan, which begins tomorrow, aiming to reduce violent crime through increased police presence and community partnerships. The initiative follows a significant 41% reduction in robberies and aims to maintain momentum in crime reduction while ensuring public safety during the upcoming Juneteenth holiday.
The Oakland Police Department arrested Deshaun Mays for the May 2025 homicide of Sirjewel Brooks and Zocari Hicks for the November 2021 homicide of Claijon Tolbert-Bundy. Mays was apprehended on June 11, while Hicks was arrested on June 4, with ongoing investigations seeking more suspects.
The California Academy of Sciences invites community members to participate in “Snapshot Cal Coast,” a project to document coastal organisms during June. Volunteers will gather this Saturday, June 14, at Lake Merritt to assist scientists in monitoring biodiversity. Data collected may inform future environmental decisions and enhance understanding of coastal ecosystems.
President Trump deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles to support immigration enforcement, prompting backlash from local officials who argue the situation does not warrant such action. California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against Trump's deployment, while Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee expressed solidarity with affected communities but has not detailed her response plans.
Rumors of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity have surged in Oakland following recent immigration raids in Los Angeles. Abby Sullivan Engen of Centro Legal De La Raza reported that while ICE has conducted targeted enforcement, no local residents have been detained. Community members are urged to verify sightings through the Alameda County Immigration Legal and Education Partnership hotline.
Oakland approved a $4.2 billion budget aimed at essential city services, eliminating a $265 million deficit. The plan will maintain fire station operations, safeguard police staffing, and fund programs addressing homelessness and blight. However, it includes cutbacks, such as a reduction in police academy openings and hiring freezes.
The Oakland City Council is set to approve a contract with Becker Boards to construct five new billboards, potentially generating up to $2.3 million upfront and $750,000 annually over 31 years. The deal aims to address a projected $265 million budget deficit while providing over $13 million in free advertising to local organizations. Becker has pledged to avoid advertising firearms on its billboards.
Several notable restaurants in Berkeley and Oakland have permanently closed, including Bear’s Lair Tavern and Sushi California. The closures reflect ongoing challenges in the restaurant industry, with owners citing various reasons such as financial viability and personal circumstances.
Community groups in Oakland protested against proposed changes to police pursuit policies following a fatal accident linked to a CHP chase. Activists argue that high-speed pursuits do not enhance public safety and demand accountability from law enforcement. Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell supports loosening current restrictions on police chases.
Oakland Coliseum will host the first top-level cricket match on the West Coast, featuring the local San Francisco Unicorns against the Washington Freedom on Thursday. The event is expected to generate $3 million in economic benefits for the area. Mayor Barbara Lee emphasized the importance of bringing global attention to Oakland through this event.