The California Highway Patrol (CHP) recently begun operation in San Bernardino.
The CHP’s operation will provide the San Bernardino Police Department with additional investigative support, and will target stolen vehicles and sideshow activities. Sideshows are unsanctioned and illegal events where drivers perform automotive stunts in public.
“We are sending additional CHP support to help local law enforcement aggressively suppress criminal activity and provide this community with a new level of safety and accountability,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said. “Whether in the Bay Area, the Central Valley, or Southern California — we are monitoring and stand ready to step in and support local law enforcement to protect communities and keep Californians safe.”
San Bernardino’s violent crime rate is nearly double the statewide average, according to recent data, and its vehicle theft rate remains one of the highest in the state. The homicide rate is more than triple the statewide average.
Local law enforcement has reported increases in traffic and street violations.
“We are grateful to Governor Newsom for providing additional support from the California Highway Patrol to the City of San Bernardino,” San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran said. “With this new state and local collaboration in San Bernardino, we can continue to impact criminal enterprises targeting our neighborhoods and businesses.”