Latest News in Oakland, CA

Meet the sword-wielding man hired to kick squatters out of empty Oakland homes

James Jacobs operates ASAP Squatter Removal, a company that helps property owners evict squatters in the Bay Area. Despite the lack of police involvement in tenancy disputes, Jacobs uses unconventional methods to remove unauthorized residents, highlighting a growing industry amid the region's housing crisis. The existence of such services reflects the intense pressures of Oakland's housing landscape, where homelessness and vacant properties coexist.

Tuscan cuisine and Filipino tacos coming to Prescott Market

Fatto a Mano Alimentari, an Italian takeout spot from chef Elena Fabbri, will open at Prescott Market in West Oakland, taking over the location of Prescott Meats Deli. The market will also feature dishes from FOB Kitchen’s Janice Dulce, showcasing Filipino cuisine. Both establishments are set to launch later this year, emphasizing authentic and locally sourced ingredients.

East Bay grandmother deported to India says ICE denied her water, bed

Harjit Kaur, a 73-year-old grandmother from the East Bay, was deported to India after 15 days in ICE detention. Despite living legally in the U.S. for over three decades, Kaur faced harsh conditions during her detention, including denial of basic needs and medical care. Her community rallied in support of her, but she was ultimately deported without notice.

Oakland Police Commission agrees with police chase policy changes

The Oakland Police Commission approved changes to the vehicle pursuit policy proposed by OPD Chief Floyd Mitchell. The modifications include reinstating protections for officers ending chases and altering notification requirements for supervisors. Critics argue that these changes may not adequately address rising crime rates linked to restrictive pursuit policies.

City of Oakland Daylighting enforcement will have to wait

Oakland has yet to implement a new law prohibiting drivers from parking too close to intersections, which took effect in January. The city lacks sufficient staff for curb painting, delaying enforcement of the law aimed at improving visibility for drivers and pedestrians. Local advocates assert Oakland is making progress on new projects that adhere to the law's guidelines.

Indian street food icon Wah jee Wah shutters, but not all is lost

Bounty Hunter Wood-Fired Grill closed its Walnut Creek location after six years, while Wah jee Wah shuttered its Hayward site due to a rent increase. Owner Ron Dumra plans to open a new flagship in South San Francisco and is currently managing a pop-up in Fremont.

ICE entered an Oakland courthouse. Court officials didnt know agents were in the building

ICE agents arrested a man inside the Wiley W. Manuel Courthouse in Oakland on September 15, marking the first such incident in Alameda County. The arrest has sparked criticism from local leaders, who argue it undermines the integrity of the justice system by deterring individuals from attending court. California law prohibits immigration enforcement in courthouses, but ICE continues to conduct arrests there.

Parking ticket scam targets Uptown Oakland drivers

Scammers recently targeted vehicle owners in Uptown and downtown Oakland, stealing $74 through fake parking tickets. The fraudulent tickets resemble official citations and include a QR code linking to a bogus payment site, prompting local organizations like the YMCA to issue warnings.

Alameda County turns up the heat on OUSD to balance its budget

The Oakland Unified School District must develop a budget reduction plan by Oct. 1 to address ongoing deficit spending and avoid fiscal instability. Alameda County Superintendent Alysse Castro has emphasized the need for $80 million in cuts for the 2025-2026 school year, while interim superintendent Denise Saddler is seeking direction on cuts for the subsequent year.

Oakland launches an e-bike lending library

Oakland has launched a rental program for electric bikes, which became available three years after the initial announcement. Mayor Barbara Lee highlighted the program's commitment to sustainable transportation, allowing residents to rent e-bikes at a subsidized rate based on income. The initiative aims to enhance mobility, especially for working families in the Fruitvale neighborhood.