Reality Star Realtor Critiques California Officials Over Police Defunding
“Selling Sunset” star Jason Oppenheim expressed discontent with California lawmakers, asserting they have “failed to protect” their citizens in a poignant video shared across social media platforms.
At 47 years old, Oppenheim shared a harrowing experience involving his close friend and co-star, Mary Fitzgerald Bonnet, and her husband, Romain, who recently fell victim to a distressing burglary. Their belongings were stolen, and shockingly, their dog was discovered “found in the middle of the street,” he recounted.
“Fortunately, he’s safe, and we managed to call 911.”
A Call for Accountability
The seasoned real estate mogul lamented the unavailability of law enforcement during their moment of crisis. Oppenheim pointed fingers at Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, criticizing their decisions to withhold essential funding from an already strained Los Angeles Police Department in favor of seemingly frivolous projects.
“The police department informed us they couldn’t dispatch officers for several days due to their commitments elsewhere. It’s not their fault,” Oppenheim stated. “By the year’s end, there are supposed to be 8,600 police officers. This is the lowest figure we’ve seen in 30 years, amidst staggering crime rates and a spectrum of thefts.”
“I sincerely wish the governor and the mayor would step up and allocate appropriate funding for our police and fire departments.”
He lamented, “We’ve defunded both, yet here we are, allocating over $100 billion towards unnecessary bullet train projects that are excessively over budget and likely outdated by the time they’re completed.”
Urgency for Reform
Oppenheim insisted that common sense must be restored in political priorities, urging state officials to prioritize the safety of their citizens above all else.
“Every day, I see friends leaving Los Angeles, plagued by fears of crime and increasing homelessness,” he reflected. “This situation is unfair and unjust. The resources are present; the tax revenue in this city is substantial. However, the funds seem to be funneled into ineffective projects.”
“I’ve got friends leaving Los Angeles every day because they don’t feel safe – because of crime, because of homelessness. It’s not fair. It’s not right.”
“Can we consider at least doubling the budgets for the Los Angeles Fire and Police Departments? Why not strive for 15,000 police officers instead of merely 8,600?”
While he possesses video footage of the alleged burglars, Oppenheim remains skeptical about its effectiveness in real crime resolution efforts.
“The frustration mounts as these incidents are occurring to good individuals all over Los Angeles,” he commented. “When consequences seem absent, desperation leads to crime. We must rethink and return to a foundation of common sense.”
“Governor Newsom, I once cast my vote for you. Regrettably, my faith has faltered. Your focus appears to be more on re-election than your most pressing duty — securing the safety of your constituents, as does Mayor Bass.”
Tasked with the aftermath of natural disasters, Governor Newsom recently sought federal assistance after extensive tours with President Donald Trump, acknowledging the extensive damage caused by the devastating fires in Los Angeles.
In a bid to make a difference, Oppenheim has contributed $100,000 to support LAFD and LAPD first responders, while also voicing concerns over bureaucratic inefficiencies.
“It’s time for reflection and recognizing that there are certainly more effective approaches we could take,” he concluded.
With an eye toward meaningful change, Oppenheim’s advocacy sheds light on the urgent need for comprehensive reform and a commitment to public safety, resonating with many living through similar challenges in Los Angeles.
