Oakland, California – The eagerly awaited arrival of Oakland’s new police chief is set for this Saturday, according to Mayor Sheng Thao. Floyd Mitchell will officially assume his duties, with the choice of a weekend start attributed to payroll and HR necessities.

Background and Transition

Mayor Thao disclosed to KTVU on Tuesday that Mitchell’s recruitment was finalized at the end of March. This appointment follows the dismissal of former chief LeRonne Armstrong in February 2023. Mitchell, already familiarizing himself with the role, has been shadowing Interim Chief Darren Alison and Assistant Chief Tony Jones.

Program Reinstatement

Thao highlighted the reinstatement of the OPD program, Ceasefire, as a significant achievement. Ceasefire is recognized for its multi-faceted approach, targeting a select group of individuals responsible for a significant portion of criminal activity. The program’s reintroduction aligns with the city’s commitment to combatting crime effectively.

Crime Reduction Efforts

A notable success mentioned by Thao is the 17% decrease in homicides recorded thus far this year. This positive trend underscores the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between the city and various law enforcement agencies. Partnerships with entities such as the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office contribute to a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing public safety.

Conclusion: Strengthening Oakland’s Safety

The commencement of Floyd Mitchell’s tenure as Oakland’s police chief marks a pivotal moment in the city’s ongoing efforts to address crime and bolster public safety. With initiatives like Ceasefire and collaborative partnerships with neighboring agencies, Oakland remains committed to fostering a secure environment for its residents.

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