Special to The Post

The recent tragic killing of Oakland Police Officer Tuan Le on Dec. 29, 2023, has deeply affected our communities as we ushered in the new year on a somber note. Amidst ongoing fear and trauma due to violent crimes and property crimes in Oakland, we anxiously awaited developments in the case. It’s a relief to witness our local leaders collaborating to ensure that Officer Le’s family finds justice and peace, with the suspects no longer posing a threat to society.

Officer Tuan Le embodied the best of public service in Oakland. Being a native of Oakland, he had a unique ability to connect with residents as one of their own. He gladly shared his personal contact information with our business leaders and community members. His presence reassured the community, often hesitant to speak up, that their concerns were truly heard.

In honoring Officer Le’s dedicated service, we must unite to prevent such tragedies from recurring. It is imperative to prioritize rebuilding the Oakland Police Department as a revered institution of public service.

The prevalence of unsolved property and violent crimes reflects a lack of resources and political commitment. The swift arrests in this murder case demonstrate the police force’s capacity to investigate and charge suspects when they are fully engaged.

This effort begins with appointing a new police chief in Oakland and increasing the number of OPD officers to match the national average of 2.4 officers per 1,000 residents.

Currently, Oakland has 1.6 officers per 1,000 residents, compared to San Francisco’s 2.7 (Oakland Report, 2024). Recruiting successive classes of officers over the next two years is crucial to addressing the public safety concerns of Oakland and East Bay residents.

Dr. Jennifer Tran is the president of the Oakland Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce, Cal State University, East Bay professor of Ethnic Studies and candidate for California Congressional District 12.

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