Community Complaints Lead to the Recovery of an Assault Weapon

For Immediate Release: July 22, 2024
OPD News:

Community Complaints Lead to the Recovery of an Assault Weapon

The Oakland Police Department Alcohol Beverage Action Team (ABAT) is investigating a licensed smoke shop in the 3800 block of San Leandro Street. On July 3, 2024, officers assigned to ABAT were following up on reports from community members about illegal activity in the area.

During the inspection, officers seized three loaded firearms, including an "AR15" style assault rifle with a detachable 30-round magazine and a stolen gun. Officers also confiscated suspected narcotics paraphernalia, banned flavored tobacco products, a large quantity of cannabis products, including packing materials and scales, numerous fireworks, and cartons of prohibited and unlawful tobacco products from out of state.

The store clerk was cited for possession of fireworks and cannabis for sale. While no arrests were made during the operation, the case will be forwarded to the Alameda County District Attorney's office for further action, including civil charges and potential eviction.

OPD will continue to focus on educating store owners about the serious consequences associated with selling unlawful flavored tobacco products under the legal age of 21. The special enforcement provides an opportunity to keep the youth in our communities safe while holding smoke shops and business owners accountable for harmful and illegal activity.

OPD remains committed to community safety and building trust with residents. We encourage community members to continue reporting any suspicious or illegal activities regarding sales of tobacco products and sales to minors in Oakland to our ABAT Complaint Hotline at (510) 777-8677.