A roundup of notable incidents, the #ICYMI feature highlights the top five most recent cases involving the California Highway Patrol. Over the past couple of weeks, they have included an out-of-state security assignment, CHP Organized Retail Crime investigators reaching a record number of arrests and recovery of stolen goods, CHP air operations force-multiplying ground units in Oakland, a Santa Cruz CHP officer fetching two dogs in heroic freeway rescue, and the pursuit of the “Best Looking Cruiser.”

Officers Deploy To RNC

A press release issued by the Governor’s Office on July 14 announced the deployment of California law enforcement to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to augment security efforts at the Republican National Convention. The California law enforcement contingency of more than 60 officers sent to Wisconsin included 40 members of the CHP’s Special Response Team, who are well-trained and experienced at handling large-scale events. The deployment was made possible through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a national interstate mutual aid agreement that allows states to share resources across state lines.

Highway 17 Rescue

While patrolling Highway 17 in Santa Cruz County on July 12, a CHP officer spotted two dogs darting across the busy lanes. Recognizing the imminent danger, the officer swiftly initiated a traffic break, stopping all vehicles, and safely transported the canine companions to the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter, where they have since been successfully reunited with their family.

Retail Crime Investigation

A news release issued by the Governor’s Office on July 16 highlighted a record number of arrests and recovery of stolen goods by the CHP’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force so far in 2024. Since January, the CHP’s ORCTF has conducted 320 investigations, made 717 arrests, and recovered nearly 230,000 stolen goods valued at more than $6.8 million.

Best-Looking Cruiser

The American Association of State Troopers is conducting its 11th annual “Best Looking Cruiser” calendar contest, and CHP is asking for the public’s help with voting. In 2023, CHP came in second place, but this year they hope to get the cover. Voting ends at 9 a.m. (PDT) on July 29.

Air Operations Assistance

On the heels of Governor Newsom’s recent announcement that he was ramping up efforts to crack down on crime in Oakland, the CHP conducted the first of many surge operations on July 13. To assist the officers on the ground, the CHP’s Golden Gate Division deployed its airplane and helicopter for a sideshow and reckless driving enforcement operation. While the aircraft were overhead, they assisted in seven pursuits resulting in 13 arrests and two firearms seized.