OAKLAND — Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao issued a statement about crime in the Hegenberger corridor after In-N-Out announced it would be closing due to crime concerns.
The fast-food chain on Sunday said it would close its only Oakland location over safety concerns for its customers and employees. In response, Thao said, “I have prioritized this critical gateway to Oakland and surged police presence and employed technology to deter and respond to criminal behavior.”
Related: Citing crime, In-N-Out announces closure of Oakland restaurant
One In-N-Out worker, however, said thieves just wait for police to leave and seize the opportunity.
“(The thieves) look around all the time, and then they see P.D. leaves for a second, and that is when they take the chance,” said worker Daisy Nunez-Valenzuela.
Thao did recognize thieves still plague the area despite efforts.
“More is necessary and I will be working with regional and state leaders to protect this tourist gateway into Oakland,” Thao said.