How there were no murders in Oakland for six weeks

No murders in Oakland for over 6 weeks; Ceasefire Strategy and Community Engagement

Police say Oakland has gone more than six weeks without a homicide for the first time since 2015. Police and City Hall prioritize the Department of Violence Prevention, Ceasefire Strategy and Community Engagement.

OAKLAND, California – The city of Oakland had not had a homicide in more than six weeks until Wednesday afternoon; this happened for the first time since 2015.

City Hall and police credit what they call the Ceasefire Strategy, the Department of Violence Prevention and Community Support.

Samir Ali, who is raising his 2-year-old daughter in East Oakland, where he grew up, has noticed a drop in homicides.

He said deadly gun violence has plagued his neighborhood for years.

“The shooting is going on,” he said. “Bodies here and there. This has not happened for a long time.”

But on Wednesday afternoon, just down the street from Ali’s home, a man was killed outside a corner store.

Oakland police said they are targeting a small number of those who commit crimes.

“We identify those who we believe are involved in violent crime and we speak to them or take action against them,” said Oakland Police Deputy Chief Frederick Davis.

According to him, at the beginning of the year, Mayor Shen Thao returned the ceasefire strategy.

It targets a small group of people, fewer than 50, who police say are responsible for most of the violent crimes.

Chavis said the city’s Department of Violence Prevention helps provide services to achieve change and results.

“Helping them get their driver’s license,” Chavis said. “Trying to get them back into school, a GED program or some sort of vocational school. We know it doesn’t happen immediately.”

He said the turning point came on September 28, when a man was killed in West Auckland’s De Fremy Park.

Tony Miller attended the annual McClymonds High School Alumni Picnic.

Police said the area was filled with families, including small children.

Chavis said the incident prompted active cooperation from the community with police.

“The community has come together and told those they believe are involved in violent crime, enough is enough,” Chavis said.

Chavis said the cease-fire strategy has proven to be effective and that despite Oakland’s budget problems, he is optimistic it will continue to be funded.

Amber Lee is a reporter for KTVU. Email Amber at [email protected] or text 510-599-3922. Follow her on Facebook @AmberKTVU, Instagram @AmberKTVU or Twitter @AmberKTVU