Each morning I check the O.P.D. Daily Crime Analysis Report for hopeful signs.  Each day, reading the Tribune and seeing the television coverage, it seems there are constant reminders that violence in Oakland is unabated.  This is in stark contrast to official word we hear through Oakland channels that crimes are being controlled – that the crime rate is going down.

            Why can’t we face reality?  Violence is way up.  Oaklanders are moving out.  Children are being kept out of Oakland public schools.  Businesses are shutting down and leaving.  Residents fear getting out of their cars.  Why must we put a “good face” on a bad situation?

            When Jerry Brown took office in January of 1999 Oakland had just suffered 7,061 violent crimes [1998], or 19.3 per day.  After three years, for 2001, the violence was reduced by -24.5%.  By the end of 2001, there were 5,330 violent crimes, or 14.6 per day.

            When Chief Tucker joined the O.P.D. in January 2005 Oakland experienced 5,150 [2004] violent crimes at a rate of 14.1 per day.  After “reorganizing” the O.P.D. into his very different style, by the time he left in January of 2009 Oakland had descended into 7,906 violent crimes [2008], or 21.7 per day.

            When Mayor Dellums took office in January of 2007, he inherited 7900 violent crimes [2006].  The average daily rate was 21.6.  The very latest Daily Crime Analysis Report [November 23, 2009] shows that for the 57 days of the current quarter Oakland is in the grips of an average 28.6 violent crimes per day.  This rate is the highest in Oakland’s recorded history.

            Can’t we just get together to get it together? 

ronoz