Vallejo residents demand action on gun violence and police response times

Concerns over police response times and community safety dominated the Vallejo Special Council Meeting on July 1, 2025, as residents voiced their frustrations and hopes for improved public safety measures.

One resident, reflecting on personal experiences, expressed deep mistrust in the police, citing slow response times when calling for help. “If I call to say something happened to my daughter, I’m looking for someone to help me,” they stated, urging the council to address staffing shortages that hinder timely assistance.

Another speaker, Anne C., highlighted the need for immediate action, criticizing the slow progress in enhancing public safety despite ongoing issues like gun violence and crime in the community. She called for increased security presence in high-risk areas and the removal of abandoned vehicles that contribute to crime. “It’s inexcusable at this point that that is not done,” she emphasized, advocating for proactive measures to deter lawlessness.

Tanisha Hollins, a local resident and community organizer, acknowledged the historical mistrust between the police and the community but praised the Vallejo Police Department for their efforts to build stronger relationships. She stressed the urgency of addressing gun violence and improving response times, stating, “We cannot ignore shootings when they happen.”

Supervisor Cassandra James echoed these sentiments, noting recent shootings and the need for law enforcement to engage more positively with the community. She called for a regional safety strategy to tackle the broader issues contributing to violence, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in future public safety initiatives.

As the meeting concluded, the community's call for action was clear: residents are eager for tangible improvements in safety and trust, urging local leaders to prioritize effective solutions to the ongoing challenges facing Vallejo.