Oakland Misses Grant Deadline, Loses Millions in Fight Against Retail Crime

Oakland officials missed the application deadline for grant funds to combat organized retail theft, disqualifying them from receiving funding. While several Bay Area law enforcement agencies qualified for millions of dollars in funding, Oakland failed to submit their proposal on time due to technical issues. The missed deadline adds to the challenges faced by the city, which has struggled with crime and a short-staffed police department. Mayor Sheng Thao defended her policies and rejected calls for a public safety state of emergency, while efforts are being made to centralize and streamline the city's grants process.