#ICYMI: This week, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) made headlines with several notable incidents, including Governor Gavin Newsom highlighting the successful joint law enforcement operation in the Bay Area, the results of CHP’s Maximum Enforcement Period focused on National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the seizure of 2,000 pounds of marijuana in Dublin, Golden Gate Division’s Helicopter-30 assistance with a burglary in progress and owners reuniting with their stolen truck, trailer and two horses in Antelope Valley.
The list below includes the headline (with a link to the full text) and an excerpt from each announcement. Click on the headlines to access the accompanying assets available for download.
On April 3, Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the 2024 results of the ongoing joint law enforcement operation in the Bay Area. The enhanced operation in the region places additional California Highway Patrol (CHP) personnel to help take down property theft and violent crime, including gun violence. The CHP’s operation adds special law enforcement units on the ground and in the air, targeting sideshow activities and stolen vehicles. Since March of last year, efforts have resulted in the recovery of 3,217 stolen vehicles, the arrest of 1,823 suspects, and the seizure of 170 illicit firearms.
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a nationwide initiative that highlights the dangers of distracted driving and promotes safer driving habits. To combat distracted driving and enhance roadway safety, the CHP conducted a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) from 6 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, through 5:59 a.m. on Wednesday, April 2. This coordinated operation focused on identifying and deterring motorists engaged in distracted driving, such as texting or using handheld devices. During the MEP, CHP personnel across the state issued nearly 14,000 citations to improve roadway safety. Of those, over 3,200 were for violations of California’s hands-free driving laws. Additionally, the CHP gave more than 2,400 warnings to drivers throughout the enforcement period. While citations hold motorists accountable, warnings serve as valuable educational opportunities, reinforcing the importance of staying focused behind the wheel to keep our roads safe.
On March 26, officers with the Dublin Area Office responded to a crash on the freeway involving a box truck. Upon arrival, officers noticed a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the cargo area. After further investigation, officers uncovered over 2,000 pounds of marijuana stuffed in several trash bags and $13,000 in cash.
On March 31, Golden Gate Division’s Helicopter-30 (H-30) responded to a request for assistance with a burglary in progress on Decker Island in Solano County. Upon H-30’s arrival, the crew spotted three individuals fleeing the island on board a small boat. The individuals began to speed away but quickly realized H-30 was tracking their movements. With help from H-30, a Marine Patrol Unit from the Solano Sheriff’s Office arrived shortly after and took all three individuals into custody. This incident is one of many that highlights the effective collaboration of air support and ground units keeping Californians safe.
On April 1, officers with the Antelope Valley Area Office received a call from a vigilant community member who had spotted a stolen truck, trailer, and two horses, as reported in an online community post. Due to their attentiveness and desire to assist, officers successfully located and recovered the abandoned stolen property, reuniting it with its rightful owners! This incident serves as a valuable reminder that when communities and law enforcement collaborate, positive outcomes can be achieved.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
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