Taco Bell and Other Restaurants in Oakland Close Dining Rooms Amid Rising Crime
The tranquility of dining at multiple Taco Bell locations in Oakland, California, has been disrupted as safety concerns have led to the closure of their dining rooms. The city, which has been grappling with a surge in crime that affects businesses of all sizes, has witnessed this unfortunate trend.
According to a statement from Taco Bell, “The priority for us is providing a safe environment for team members and customers.” This decision was reportedly made by the franchisee owner of Diversified Restaurant Group, which manages approximately 300 Taco Bell and Arby’s locations primarily in the western US. Despite not returning News Finder’s request for comment, the franchisee has taken measures to ensure safety by implementing procedures, such as closing dining rooms and hiring security guards.
At least four Taco Bell restaurants in Oakland have closed their dining rooms, leaving the drive-thru operational for customers. Based on Taco Bell’s Website, they operate roughly a dozen locations in this area. One of these restaurants still has its dining room open but has opted to become cashless as a preventive measure against robberies.
Robberies, frequent auto theft, and property damage have posed significant challenges for businesses operating in the region. In two weeks, the only In-N-Out Burger location in Oakland will close, marking a first for the iconic burger chain as it cites crime as the reason. A Denny’s restaurant and Raising Cane’s near the airport have also closed their dining rooms in response to public safety concerns.
Crime rates fluctuate from city to city, and according to FBI data, national violent crime decreased by 8.2% in 2023 for the second consecutive year following a rise in 2021. However, Oakland has faced crime as a major issue. Robberies surged by 38% last year, according to police data. Burglaries increased by 23%, while motor vehicle theft jumped by 44%. One out of every thirty Oakland residents had a car stolen last year, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.
The causes for these crime increases are complex and multifaceted. According to a Council on Criminal Justice study, theories include pandemic-related changes in people’s daily activities and emotional and economic stress levels, modifications in police practices, and a breakdown of public trust in law enforcement. Additionally, the suspension or reduction of social supports and programs have been suggested as contributing factors.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has responded to this situation by deploying 120 California Highway Patrol officers to Oakland and its surrounding area for a law enforcement surge operation. The objective of this operation is to tackle crime, including vehicle theft, retail theft, and violent offenses.
