BAKERSFIELD — On June 6, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) joint operations with Bakersfield law enforcement have resulted in 470 arrests for illegal activity and 244 vehicles recovered — accounting for a monthly arrest increase of 56% and a vehicle recovery increase of 24%. Since March, the CHP and the Bakersfield Police Department have worked together to address crime in the region.  

“Week after week we continue to see positive results from our partnership with local law enforcement in the Bakersfield area. Our ultimate goal is to take down criminal activity and make Bakersfield’s streets safer,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.

Comparing April and May, this localized enforcement effort has led to a 56% increase in arrests, 33% additional firearms recovered, and 24% more stolen vehicles recovered.

The collaboration between the Bakersfield Police Department and the CHP focuses on vehicle theft and organized crime. Kern County has higher reported rates of violent crime, property crime, and arrest rates (felony and misdemeanor) compared to the statewide average.

In 2023, as part of California’s Real Public Safety Plan, the Governor announced the largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime in state history, with the Bakersfield Police Department being awarded $6.2 million to specifically prevent and respond to organized retail theft, motor vehicle or motor vehicle accessory theft, and cargo theft.