Taco Bell Franchisee Closes Dining Rooms in Oakland Due to Crime Concerns
A Taco Bell franchisee has made the decision to close the dining rooms of at least three restaurants in Oakland, California, citing concerns about crime in the area.
Dining Room Closures
The dining rooms of Taco Bell establishments located on Bancroft Avenue, 35th Avenue, and Telegraph Avenue have been shut down, as indicated on Taco Bell’s website. However, the drive-thrus at these locations remain operational.
Safety Measures
According to Taco Bell, the decision to close the dining rooms was made by the franchise owner and operator, Diversified Restaurant Group. The company stated that they are continuously assessing the situation and taking steps to ensure a safe environment, including implementing procedures like closing dining rooms and hiring security guards. Additionally, they have been collaborating with local law enforcement to address the issue.
Crime Incidents
Reports from the local station KPIX-TV revealed that one of the restaurants, located on 35th Avenue, had experienced four robberies since November, two of which occurred while the restaurant was open. Other incidents reported in the vicinity of the Taco Bell restaurants include burglaries, battery cases, and a shooting within the past 90 days.
Uncertainty Surrounding Crimes
The exact connection between the reported crimes and the Taco Bell locations remains unclear, as the Oakland Police Department substitutes specific addresses with block addresses in their crime reports. Therefore, it’s uncertain whether these incidents directly affected the restaurants in question.
Impact on Taco Bell Locations
Among the five Taco Bell restaurants listed in Oakland, only one on Hegenberger Road still maintains an open dining room, albeit with limited hours. The status of the restaurant on Telegraph Road is currently listed as closed.
Response from Taco Bell and Diversified Restaurant Group
Business Insider has reached out to Taco Bell and Diversified Restaurant Group for further comment on the situation.
Citywide Concerns
The closure of Taco Bell dining rooms adds to a growing trend of businesses adjusting their operations or shutting down altogether in response to rising crime rates in Oakland. Other notable establishments, including Target, In-N-Out Burger, and Denny’s, have also made similar decisions due to safety concerns reported in the area.
As the community grapples with these challenges, businesses continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of their customers and employees in the face of escalating crime concerns.
