Crime Numbers Down In Oakland

OAKLAND (KCBS) - Despite the loss of eighty police officers and the perception that crime is rampant in the city, Oakland police officials said the latest numbers show overall crime is down 14 percent, with homicides off 28 percent from this same time last year.

Police said the drop in numbers is mainly because they have changed their tactics and moved resources around.

Oakland Police Captain Ersie Joyner said there are a lot of gangs in his area, including three from High Street to the San Leandro border. So when a shooting occurs, a different response is needed.

KCBS' Bob Melrose Reports:

"We know that there's a shooting in Gang A's territory and we believe Gang B is involved," said Joyner. "My staff has been directed to not only do that preliminary investigation in Gang A's area, but to also go over to Gang B's area and try to apprehend the suspects as well as prevent any type of retaliation shooting."

Joyner, who once headed the homicide detail, said more people are coming forward with information. But he said more crimes could be solved with even more cooperation from the community.

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