Gavin Newsom’s Bay Area ravaged by surging crime as LA burns: ‘It’s a war zone!’

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Residents in the Bay Area of California are growing increasingly frustrated with the rising crime rates and are calling on Governor Gavin Newsom to take action as Los Angeles battles wildfires that have devastated communities. As looting becomes more prevalent in Southern California in the aftermath of wildfires, Newsom has responded by declaring looting in fire evacuation zones a felony, following calls from prosecutors for stricter penalties.

“Preying on people at their most vulnerable is despicable, these criminals are among the worst kinds,” Newsom said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital. He emphasized that looting has never been legal in California and will not be tolerated.

In Northern California, where crime rates are surging, State Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones pointed out that the wildfires have brought attention to the growing crime problem in the state. He criticized the delay in deploying the National Guard, which he believes was a misstep by Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

Despite Jones’ claims, Newsom’s office stated that the California National Guard has been deployed since the beginning of the wildfires, with up to 2,500 members assisting in the efforts.

Meanwhile, residents in Vallejo, a community in the Bay Area, have started a petition urging Newsom to send help to combat the escalating crime rates in their city. The petition has garnered nearly 3,900 signatures, with residents expressing concerns about the safety of their community.

Assemblyman James Gallagher criticized Newsom for what he sees as a failure of leadership in addressing the crime issues in Vallejo. However, Newsom’s office stated that efforts are being made to enhance public safety in Vallejo, with the California Highway Patrol collaborating closely with the local police department.

In San Francisco, newly elected Mayor Daniel Lurie has promised to address the city’s homelessness, crime, and drug overdose problems. He plans to declare a state of emergency over the fentanyl crisis, increase the police force, and encourage City Hall employees to return to in-person work full-time.

Newsom’s office highlighted that California is experiencing 30-year lows in both violent crime and property crime, with increased public safety efforts in cities like San Francisco, Oakland, Bakersfield, and San Bernardino.

In conclusion, California residents are calling for stronger action to combat crime and address the aftermath of devastating wildfires, while state officials like Newsom and local leaders work to enhance public safety measures and protect communities.