Wise Son’s Deli in Oakland has been the target of break-ins seven times in the past 18 months, leading CEO Jeff Weinstein to demand city leaders take action to curb ongoing downtown crime. The most recent break-in occurred over the weekend, with surveillance video capturing an individual throwing an object through the deli’s glass door, rummaging around inside, and then exit the premises.
The deli, located on Franklin at 17th Street, at the border of Oakland’s uptown and downtown business districts, has suffered not just from break-ins but also from two separate incidents involving vehicles crashing into the establishment’s customer lobby.
Weinstein stated that there appeared to be a connection between the two drivers involved in the most recent crash, which occurred on June 4 and was classified as a hit-and-run by Oakland police investigators. From the video footage and witness statements, it seemed that items were transferred from one vehicle into the other.
Weinstein stressed the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions to prevent such incidents in the future. The lack of follow-up from authorities has left him, his staff, and customers with many questions about the status of the investigation and whether the deli is being specifically targeted.
Despite reaching out to Mayor Sheng Thao’s office, the Oakland Police Department, and Councilmember Carroll Fife for a response, there have been no replies. This case underlines the importance of community engagement and action from city authorities to ensure the safety and security of local businesses.