The first two weeks of September saw a 21 percent increase in all robberies, partly due to the understaffed Stockton Police Department being stretched thin. District 1 Councilmember Michelle Padilla is the only Councilperson to comment on the surge of robberies.
“Here’s how you can help reduce your risk; Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, avoid walking alone late at night, keep your valuables out of sight – especially when in public, install outdoor lighting and security cameras at home. We all have a role to play. Report suspicious activity, join your neighborhood watch, and stay connected with local authorities,” said Stockton City Councilperson Michelle Padilla via her personal Instagram.
The first of many attacks was a 73-year-old woman, at an ATM near West and Hammer Lane’s SF Supermarket drawing $500 for her grandchildren. Video footage shows the elderly woman being assaulted and robbed by a 14 and 15-year-old, the 14-year-old has been arrested by the police while the 15-year-old remains unrestrained.
On July 5 of 2023 the Stockton Police Department gave a two-page order provided by Stanley McFadden, Stockton’s Police Chief, “No longer respond to reports of reckless driving.” The Department will stop responding to certain dispatch calls for minor reports such as reckless driving, hit-and-runs and non-burglary crimes.
Delta College’s Campus Climate 2024 Summary documents how unsafe students feel, 50 percent of Delta’s students feel unsafe when walking the campus at night, 23 percent were concerned with the areas surrounding campus and 15 percent answered yes to feeling unsafe in campus restrooms.
In the midst of the robbery uprisings 131 of 151 applicants passed the preliminary test and have now joined the police force.
“We’re building back. We’re being more visible,” said McFadden in an interview with ABC 10 News in response to the police department filling 120 vacant positions. “I’ve got 23 years of experience and thus far, this is the highest number of applicants we’ve had,” said Recruiting Lieutenant Anabel Morris.
