Protecting the Central Valley: Results show initial success in CHP’s operations to take down crime

By ONME Newswire

Governor Newsom’s newly announced enforcement effort in Bakersfield produces initial results in stopping crime and improving public safety – with 211 arrests and 127 stolen vehicles recovered in the area in recent weeks. 

After Governor Gavin Newsom announced a regional enforcement effort between the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the Bakersfield Police Department to address crime, initial 6-week results show meaningful progress in the area.

“We are working proactively to keep Californians safe in the Central Valley. In partnership with local law enforcement, the state will continue to step up to take down criminals and make Bakersfield safer for everyone," said Newsom.

The work in the area includes day-to-day enforcement and comprehensive operations. Most recently, the Bakersfield Police Department and the CHP conducted a one-day traffic enforcement/crime suppression effort, which included a total of 230 issued citations (127 for speed, five for seatbelt, 13 for cell phone, 35 for commercial violations, and 48 for mechanical violations), 14 verbal warnings, nine vehicles impounded, nine stolen vehicles recovered, and three felony arrests.

“I am pleased with the initial results of this partnership, which speak to the fruitful relationship we have between local and state partners to keep Bakersfield families safe,” said Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh.

“By working together and creating a strong partnership, like the one between the California Highway Patrol and Bakersfield Police Department, we can enhance public safety by effectively combating threats to the community,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.

In support of personnel from the Bakersfield Police Department, the CHP has deployed officers from the local area offices and investigators from the CHP’s Central Division.

Kern County has higher rates of violent crime, property crime, and arrest rates (felony and misdemeanor) compared to the statewide average. The collaboration between the Bakersfield Police Department and the CHP is reducing criminal activity in the region, with a focus on vehicle theft and organized crime.