It’s no secret that car theft is a massive problem worldwide. Sadly, many drivers’ cars go missing each year, and some are never seen again. However, Oakland, California, recently underwent a change in enforcement that has helped the issue. Naturally, part of the positive change came from traffic stops. This increase in enforcement also led to multiple arrests. Of course, traffic cams are part of the reason for the good news.

Car theft is a problem in California, but an increase in traffic stops is helping

People who are victims of car theft can feel helpless at times. However, according to KTLA, people whose vehicles have gone missing in Oakland, California, might be in luck. In February, Gov. Gavin Newsom began a new enforcement operation, which sent more resources to the city. In a nutshell, there is an increase in enforcement, which means more traffic stops and other methods to find bad actors. 

These enforcement changes to combat car theft and other crimes have proven successful, as the California Highway Patrol has recovered several stolen cars. In fact, the current number is 2,213 stolen vehicles. The increase in traffic stops and technology has also led to 1,125 arrests and 110 illegal firearms seized, all since February. 

Police officers have also done quite a bit since July. Since then, 920 vehicles have been recovered, 524 arrests have been made, and 52 illegal firearms have been seized. Of course, the CHP also uses traffic cams to help with car theft and other illegal activities. Because of the changes, Oakland is safer than it was before. However, as with many other major U.S. cities, the city still has a car theft problem.