Governor Gavin Newsom announced that in four months, a joint operation between the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the Bakersfield Police Department led to 677 arrests and the recovery of 338 stolen vehicles.
“Working with our local partners in Bakersfield, the CHP has made great progress in finding stolen cars, removing guns linked to crimes from the streets, and arresting offenders,” said Governor Newsom. “This partnership is helping improve public safety in the Central Valley. We are committed to reducing crime and making our neighborhoods safer.”
The cooperation between the Bakersfield Police Department and the CHP mainly focuses on car theft and organized crime.
“Collaborating with local law enforcement is crucial for our mission to reduce crime. By working together every day, we can significantly lower crime rates in our communities,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Together, we create a safer environment for everyone.”
In 2023, as part of California’s Real Public Safety Plan, the Governor announced the largest-ever investment to fight organized retail crime, with $6.2 million given to the Bakersfield Police Department. This money is meant to help prevent and respond to organized retail theft, car theft, and cargo theft.
Governor Newsom also announced a new partnership between the Bakersfield Police Department and CHP to increase efforts against auto theft and retail crime, including more visible and proactive traffic enforcement.