Garrett Leahy

New video from San Francisco police shows cops storming a sideshow, catching bippers near the Embarcadero and even arresting an attempted kidnapping suspect.

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New video from San Francisco police shows cops storming a sideshow, catching bippers near the Embarcadero and even arresting an attempted kidnapping suspect.

The <a href="https://twitter.com/SFPD/status/1820909323448676615">footage</a> was unveiled during a Tuesday press conference announcing the department&#8217;s new drone program, which was approved with the passage of Proposition E in March.

The <a href="https://twitter.com/SFPD/status/1820909323448676615">footage</a> was unveiled during a Tuesday press conference announcing the department's new drone program, which was approved with the passage of Proposition E in March.

The <a href="https://twitter.com/SFPD/status/1820909323448676615">footage</a> was unveiled during a Tuesday press conference announcing the department&#8217;s new drone program, which was approved with the passage of Proposition E in March.

Drone footage captured the night of July 4 shows people setting off fireworks and driving in donuts at the intersection of 25th Street and Treat Avenue in the Mission before more than a dozen cops storm toward the crowd as revelers flee.

Drone footage captured the night of July 4 shows people setting off fireworks and driving in donuts at the intersection of 25th Street and Treat Avenue in the Mission before more than a dozen cops storm toward the crowd as revelers flee.

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/yc5uT8ZaWQ4
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco police on Tuesday released drone footage used to battle criminal activity.</figcaption></figure>

Another drone video shows two suspected thieves on dirt bikes breaking into cars near the Embarcadero on July 26. The video then shows the bikes being abandoned in a park as one of the suspects is pursued on foot by police and arrested.

Another drone video shows two suspected thieves on dirt bikes breaking into cars near the Embarcadero on July 26. The video then shows the bikes being abandoned in a park as one of the suspects is pursued on foot by police and arrested.

A third clip shows a suspect jumping out of an SUV before smashing the back window of a car and stealing a red bag from it. The incident was captured via drone July 25 at Front and Green streets near the Embarcadero.

A third clip shows a suspect jumping out of an SUV before smashing the back window of a car and stealing a red bag from it. The incident was captured via drone July 25 at Front and Green streets near the Embarcadero.

Footage taken May 30 shows officers pulling over and arresting a driver on suspicion of attempted kidnapping and sexual assault. A drone caught the arrest from above.

Footage taken May 30 shows officers pulling over and arresting a driver on suspicion of attempted kidnapping and sexual assault. A drone caught the arrest from above.

Beyond drones, cops are using other surveillance technology, including&nbsp;automated license-plate-reading cameras. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said the cameras work in concert with drones to catch criminals who use stolen cars to commit other crimes.

Beyond drones, cops are using other surveillance technology, including&nbsp;automated license-plate-reading cameras. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said the cameras work in concert with drones to catch criminals who use stolen cars to commit other crimes.

&#8220;Hopefully this will be the technology that will not only be used to respond to crimes but also deter,&#8221; Jenkins said during the press conference.

"Hopefully this will be the technology that will not only be used to respond to crimes but also deter," Jenkins said during the press conference.

&#8220;Hopefully this will be the technology that will not only be used to respond to crimes but also deter,&#8221; Jenkins said during the press conference.

&#8220;This technology is a game changer,&#8221; Police Chief Bill Scott said.

"This technology is a game changer," Police Chief Bill Scott said.

&#8220;This technology is a game changer,&#8221; Police Chief Bill Scott said.

SFPD chief Bill Scott touted success with new drones at stopping crimes during a press conference Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/screenshot-2024-08-06-at-2-23-53-pm.png?w=1478" alt="A policeman speaks at a San Francisco Police podium, accompanied by two individuals. An American flag and a large monitor displaying the police emblem are behind them." class="wp-image-299113"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Police Chief Bill Scott says the new drones are a &#8220;game changer&#8221; in stopping crime.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/screenshot-2024-08-06-at-2-23-53-pm.png?w=1478" alt="A policeman speaks at a San Francisco Police podium, accompanied by two individuals. An American flag and a large monitor displaying the police emblem are behind them." class="wp-image-299113"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Police Chief Bill Scott says the new drones are a "game changer" in stopping crime.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/screenshot-2024-08-06-at-2-23-53-pm.png?w=1478" alt="A policeman speaks at a San Francisco Police podium, accompanied by two individuals. An American flag and a large monitor displaying the police emblem are behind them." class="wp-image-299113"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Police Chief Bill Scott says the new drones are a &#8220;game changer&#8221; in stopping crime.</figcaption></figure>

The six drones cost $35,000 and have been deployed 65 times since mid-May, police said. Citing inventory records, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that police are expected to buy <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/crime/article/sf-police-drone-arrests-19622925.php">22 more drones</a> for $324,000.

The six drones cost $35,000 and have been deployed 65 times since mid-May, police said. Citing inventory records, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that police are expected to buy <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/crime/article/sf-police-drone-arrests-19622925.php">22 more drones</a> for $324,000.

&#8220;We&#8217;re still looking at the budget,&#8221; said Thomas Maguire, a lieutenant in SFPD&#8217;s strategic investigations unit, which has been using drones.

"We're still looking at the budget," said Thomas Maguire, a lieutenant in SFPD's strategic investigations unit, which has been using drones.

&#8220;We&#8217;re still looking at the budget,&#8221; said Thomas Maguire, a lieutenant in SFPD&#8217;s strategic investigations unit, which has been using drones.

According to Scott, officers won&#8217;t be flying drones around for &#8220;passive surveillance,&#8221; although police do plan to station the devices near &#8220;problem areas&#8221; where crimes like car break-ins are common, such as the Embarcadero.

According to Scott, officers won't be flying drones around for "passive surveillance," although police do plan to station the devices near "problem areas" where crimes like car break-ins are common, such as the Embarcadero.

According to Scott, officers won&#8217;t be flying drones around for &#8220;passive surveillance,&#8221; although police do plan to station the devices near &#8220;problem areas&#8221; where crimes like car break-ins are common, such as the Embarcadero.

&#8220;We&#8217;re not just hovering drones over the city,&#8221; Scott said. &#8220;We only launch them if they are related to a specific incident.&#8221;

"We're not just hovering drones over the city," Scott said. "We only launch them if they are related to a specific incident."

&#8220;We&#8217;re not just hovering drones over the city,&#8221; Scott said. &#8220;We only launch them if they are related to a specific incident.&#8221;

Critics have warned that the technology could expose citizens to undue surveillance and police misconduct.

Critics have warned that the technology could expose citizens to undue surveillance and police misconduct.

&#8220;This proposition isn&#8217;t about whether police can use surveillance; they can under safety policies,&#8221; Matt Cagle, an attorney for the ACLU of Northern California, told <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/debate-heats-up-over-san-franciscos-prop-e-reducing-restrictions-on-police-use-of-technology/">CBS News Bay Area</a> in January when quizzed about Prop. E. &#8220;This proposition rips those safety policies away and allows police to expand and deploy dangerous surveillance technology and more easily hide use-of-force incidents.&#8221;

"This proposition isn't about whether police can use surveillance; they can under safety policies," Matt Cagle, an attorney for the ACLU of Northern California, told <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/debate-heats-up-over-san-franciscos-prop-e-reducing-restrictions-on-police-use-of-technology/">CBS News Bay Area</a> in January when quizzed about Prop. E. "This proposition rips those safety policies away and allows police to expand and deploy dangerous surveillance technology and more easily hide use-of-force incidents."

&#8220;This proposition isn&#8217;t about whether police can use surveillance; they can under safety policies,&#8221; Matt Cagle, an attorney for the ACLU of Northern California, told <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/debate-heats-up-over-san-franciscos-prop-e-reducing-restrictions-on-police-use-of-technology/">CBS News Bay Area</a> in January when quizzed about Prop. E. &#8220;This proposition rips those safety policies away and allows police to expand and deploy dangerous surveillance technology and more easily hide use-of-force incidents.&#8221;

San Francisco police have not been able to deploy helicopter units since a<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/helicopter-crash-kills-two-s-f-cops-records-3312255.php"> crash in January 2000</a> killed two officers.

San Francisco police have not been able to deploy helicopter units since a<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/helicopter-crash-kills-two-s-f-cops-records-3312255.php"> crash in January 2000</a> killed two officers.

Video: SF cops use drones to catch bippers on dirt bikes and bust up sideshows

Gabe Greschler

A gun violence prevention advocate is Mayor Daniel Lurie’s choice to replace <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/02/25/sf-police-commission-ouster/">a recently ousted police commissioner</a>, The Standard has learned.

&#8216;A lack of respect&#8217;: Ousted police commissioner blasts Lurie

A gun violence prevention advocate is Mayor Daniel Lurie’s choice to replace <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/02/25/sf-police-commission-ouster/">a recently ousted police commissioner</a>, The Standard has learned.

Mattie Scott, whose son George C. Scott was shot and killed in 1996 at a San Francisco high school graduation party, would sit on the commission tasked with setting policy for the San Francisco Police Department and holding disciplinary hearings for officer misconduct.&nbsp;

Mattie Scott, whose son George C. Scott was shot and killed in 1996 at a San Francisco high school graduation party, would sit on the commission tasked with setting policy for the San Francisco Police Department and holding disciplinary hearings for officer misconduct.&nbsp;

Lurie’s nomination comes after he ejected <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/02/04/san-francisco-mayor-bold-play-remove-sfpd-commissioner/">Max Carter-Oberstone</a>, a strong supporter of police reform, from the commission. The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday voted 9-2 in favor of ousting Carter-Oberstone. While Lurie indicated that the move was related to Carter-Oberstone&#8217;s relationships with City Hall officials, the former commissioner and criminal justice reform activists claimed the mayor’s intention was to tighten control on the commission.&nbsp;

Lurie makes bold play to cut controversial police commissioner

Lurie’s nomination comes after he ejected <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/02/04/san-francisco-mayor-bold-play-remove-sfpd-commissioner/">Max Carter-Oberstone</a>, a strong supporter of police reform, from the commission. The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday voted 9-2 in favor of ousting Carter-Oberstone. While Lurie indicated that the move was related to Carter-Oberstone's relationships with City Hall officials, the former commissioner and criminal justice reform activists claimed the mayor’s intention was to tighten control on the commission.&nbsp;

Lurie’s nomination comes after he ejected <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/02/04/san-francisco-mayor-bold-play-remove-sfpd-commissioner/">Max Carter-Oberstone</a>, a strong supporter of police reform, from the commission. The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday voted 9-2 in favor of ousting Carter-Oberstone. While Lurie indicated that the move was related to Carter-Oberstone&#8217;s relationships with City Hall officials, the former commissioner and criminal justice reform activists claimed the mayor’s intention was to tighten control on the commission.&nbsp;

The mayor’s office declined to comment. The Board of Supervisors must confirm Scott’s nomination. On Tuesday, the board approved former federal prosecutor Wilson Leung for another vacant seat on the commission.

The mayor’s office declined to comment. The Board of Supervisors must confirm Scott’s nomination. On Tuesday, the board approved former federal prosecutor Wilson Leung for another vacant seat on the commission.

Supervisor Catherine Stefani, who represents District 2, speaks to press conference attendees including activist Mattie Scott, in front of City Hall on November 16, 2021. | Camille Cohen

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Stefani-14.jpg" alt="Three people stand outside an ornate, arched building entrance, having a conversation. One wears a Brady campaign shirt, another a suit, and the third a sweater." class="wp-image-15428"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Scott, left, intends to push for police reform but acknowledges the need for more officers.</figcaption></figure>

In an interview, Scott, 72, said she has “been in this work for justice” since childhood, having grown up in the South and learning of her father’s experience being targeted by police. A San Francisco resident since 1965, Scott is the founder of Healing 4 Our Families &amp; Our Nation, which supports victims of gun violence. She has worked with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi on matters related to gun violence prevention.&nbsp;

In an interview, Scott, 72, said she has “been in this work for justice” since childhood, having grown up in the South and learning of her father’s experience being targeted by police. A San Francisco resident since 1965, Scott is the founder of Healing 4 Our Families &amp; Our Nation, which supports victims of gun violence. She has worked with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi on matters related to gun violence prevention.&nbsp;

While Scott said she intends to push for police reform while on the commission, she acknowledged the city’s need for more officers. This echoes Lurie, who ran on hiring officers and formed an independent committee <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/22/london-breed-prop-e-san-francisco-police-fundraising/">to raise money for a ballot measure initiative</a> that would increase the powers of law enforcement.

This San Francisco ballot measure would boost police surveillance. It&#8217;s raised $1M

While Scott said she intends to push for police reform while on the commission, she acknowledged the city’s need for more officers. This echoes Lurie, who ran on hiring officers and formed an independent committee <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/22/london-breed-prop-e-san-francisco-police-fundraising/">to raise money for a ballot measure initiative</a> that would increase the powers of law enforcement.

“We need law enforcement,” Scott said. “When we lost George Floyd, people wanted to defund the police. Defunding the police is not the answer. We need more police who are trained well.”&nbsp;

“We need law enforcement,” Scott said. “When we lost George Floyd, people wanted to defund the police. Defunding the police is not the answer. We need more police who are trained well.”&nbsp;

One of her goals is to push for more officers to be embedded in the communities they serve. “You need to understand the demographics of the people you’re policing,” she said.&nbsp;

One of her goals is to push for more officers to be embedded in the communities they serve. “You need to understand the demographics of the people you’re policing,” she said.&nbsp;

‘A lack of respect’: Ousted police commissioner blasts Lurie

sf-standard/related-post

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The nomination comes amid speculation that Lurie intends to replace SFPD Chief Bill Scott (no relation). If he is fired, the commissioners would submit to Lurie three candidates for chief.&nbsp;

The nomination comes amid speculation that Lurie intends to replace SFPD Chief Bill Scott (no relation). If he is fired, the commissioners would submit to Lurie three candidates for chief.&nbsp;

The Rev. Amos C. Brown of Third Baptist Church described Mattie Scott as “a people’s person,” adding that she has “experienced the pain of having lost her son, whom I baptized at Third Baptist Church.” When asked whether Scott would support Carter-Oberstone’s push for police reform, Brown said she strongly supports “commonsense community policing.”&nbsp;

The Rev. Amos C. Brown of Third Baptist Church described Mattie Scott as “a people’s person,” adding that she has “experienced the pain of having lost her son, whom I baptized at Third Baptist Church.” When asked whether Scott would support Carter-Oberstone’s push for police reform, Brown said she strongly supports “commonsense community policing.”&nbsp;

Brian Hofer, a police reform advocate who led a rally in support of former commissioner Carter-Oberstone, wrote in a statement that Scott “appears qualified” for the oversight board role. “I hope that she will act in an independent manner and be unafraid to hold the police accountable if they stray outside the lines,” he wrote.

Brian Hofer, a police reform advocate who led a rally in support of former commissioner Carter-Oberstone, wrote in a statement that Scott “appears qualified” for the oversight board role. “I hope that she will act in an independent manner and be unafraid to hold the police accountable if they stray outside the lines,” he wrote.

Jonah Owen Lamb contributed reporting.

Jonah Owen Lamb contributed reporting.

Lurie picks gun violence activist to replace ousted police commissioner

Jonah Owen Lamb

Long the bane of San Francisco leaders and the city’s tourists industry, property crime has declined by 34% compared to the first six months of last year, <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-07/PoliceCommission71024-%20Commission%20Crime%20Trends%20Notes%2007.10.24.pdf">according to new police statistics</a>. The drop is part of a continued downward trend of reported major crimes in the city—one that has in most cases seen them fall below or near pre-pandemic levels.

Long the bane of San Francisco leaders and the city’s tourists industry, property crime has declined by 34% compared to the first six months of last year, <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-07/PoliceCommission71024-%20Commission%20Crime%20Trends%20Notes%2007.10.24.pdf">according to new police statistics</a>. The drop is part of a continued downward trend of reported major crimes in the city—one that has in most cases seen them fall below or near pre-pandemic levels.

“The property-crime drop is really driving the majority of our reduction in crime,” San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said at Wednesday&#8217;s police commission. “Car break-ins, and larceny in general, is down significantly.”

“The property-crime drop is really driving the majority of our reduction in crime,” San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said at Wednesday's police commission. “Car break-ins, and larceny in general, is down significantly.”

“The property-crime drop is really driving the majority of our reduction in crime,” San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said at Wednesday&#8217;s police commission. “Car break-ins, and larceny in general, is down significantly.”

While the media narrative in <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/02/28/us-news/now-nowhere-in-san-francisco-is-safe-from-crime/">certain quarters</a> has been slow to shift, the same can&#8217;t be said for the underlying reality.

While the media narrative in <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/02/28/us-news/now-nowhere-in-san-francisco-is-safe-from-crime/">certain quarters</a> has been slow to shift, the same can't be said for the underlying reality.

While the media narrative in <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/02/28/us-news/now-nowhere-in-san-francisco-is-safe-from-crime/">certain quarters</a> has been slow to shift, the same can&#8217;t be said for the underlying reality.

Larceny thefts, which includes hot-button issues like car break-ins and retail thefts, dropped 40% to 10,522 so far this year, compared to last year&#8217;s 17,648 reported larcenies through six months—which was down from the 18,433 thefts reported in the first <a href="https://www.sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/2020-01/SFPDCompStatCrimeReport20191201.pdf">six months of 2019</a>.

Larceny thefts, which includes hot-button issues like car break-ins and retail thefts, dropped 40% to 10,522 so far this year, compared to last year's 17,648 reported larcenies through six months—which was down from the 18,433 thefts reported in the first <a href="https://www.sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/2020-01/SFPDCompStatCrimeReport20191201.pdf">six months of 2019</a>.

Larceny thefts, which includes hot-button issues like car break-ins and retail thefts, dropped 40% to 10,522 so far this year, compared to last year&#8217;s 17,648 reported larcenies through six months—which was down from the 18,433 thefts reported in the first <a href="https://www.sanfranciscopolice.org/sites/default/files/2020-01/SFPDCompStatCrimeReport20191201.pdf">six months of 2019</a>.

Police Chief Bill Scott attends a press conference at the intersection of 9th Avenue and Irving Street in San Francisco on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Mayor London Breed joined Police Chief Bill Scott, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, Sheriff Paul Miyamoto, San Francisco Board of Supervisors Myrna Melgar, and Joel Engardio joined business leaders and members of the community to announce the City's plan to install 400 Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) at approximately 100 intersections across San Francisco. These new public safety license plate reader cameras will be used by SFPD to address critical public safety issues, including organized retail theft and motor vehicle theft.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/powerplaynewsletter-02.jpg?w=2223" alt="The image shows smiling uniformed officers from the San Francisco Police, engaged in a light-hearted conversation outdoors. One officer appears to be gesturing animatedly." class="wp-image-290752"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott, seen here in March 2024, attributes a rapid drop in crime to the department&#8217;s targeted strategy.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/powerplaynewsletter-02.jpg?w=2223" alt="The image shows smiling uniformed officers from the San Francisco Police, engaged in a light-hearted conversation outdoors. One officer appears to be gesturing animatedly." class="wp-image-290752"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott, seen here in March 2024, attributes a rapid drop in crime to the department's targeted strategy.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/powerplaynewsletter-02.jpg?w=2223" alt="The image shows smiling uniformed officers from the San Francisco Police, engaged in a light-hearted conversation outdoors. One officer appears to be gesturing animatedly." class="wp-image-290752"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott, seen here in March 2024, attributes a rapid drop in crime to the department&#8217;s targeted strategy.</figcaption></figure>

Scott attributed the trend to the department’s focus “on the right people”—meaning organized crews that operate across the Bay Area, including one that specialized in stealing high-end watches. The department used bait cars and other tactics to target criminals in highly trafficked areas, which Scott said helped SFPD make more than 400 retail-theft arrests this year.&nbsp;

Scott attributed the trend to the department’s focus “on the right people”—meaning organized crews that operate across the Bay Area, including one that specialized in stealing high-end watches. The department used bait cars and other tactics to target criminals in highly trafficked areas, which Scott said helped SFPD make more than 400 retail-theft arrests this year.&nbsp;

Overall, robberies were down 17%, totaling only 1,139 so far this year, compared to 1,378 in the first half of 2023. These numbers continue a downward trend from the first half of 2019, when there were 1,364 robberies.&nbsp;

Overall, robberies were down 17%, totaling only 1,139 so far this year, compared to 1,378 in the first half of 2023. These numbers continue a downward trend from the first half of 2019, when there were 1,364 robberies.&nbsp;

The City also saw year-to-date declines in homicides (39%), rape (9%) and burglary (19%).&nbsp;

The City also saw year-to-date declines in homicides (39%), rape (9%) and burglary (19%).&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-datawrapper wp-block-embed-datawrapper"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/WLIVr/1
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A snapshot of crime statistics across six major categories shows rates largely returning to their pre-pandemic baselines.</figcaption></figure>

SFPD officials and Mayor London Breed have taken credit for the decline and attribute the improvement to their campaign to increase police patrols with the help of state and federal law enforcement.&nbsp;

SFPD officials and Mayor London Breed have taken credit for the decline and attribute the improvement to their campaign to increase police patrols with the help of state and federal law enforcement.&nbsp;

While acknowledging the drop at last week’s mayoral debate, most candidates redoubled promises to fill the depleted ranks of the police department, continuing to emphasize a law-and-order answer to public worries about crime.&nbsp;

While acknowledging the drop at last week’s mayoral debate, most candidates redoubled promises to fill the depleted ranks of the police department, continuing to emphasize a law-and-order answer to public worries about crime.&nbsp;

Criminologists, however, say there are many reasons for the safer streets, and those factors are not always attributable to police—especially considering crime rates are dropping nationwide as life returns to normal after the pandemic.

Criminologists, however, say there are many reasons for the safer streets, and those factors are not always attributable to police—especially considering crime rates are dropping nationwide as life returns to normal after the pandemic.

California Highway Patrol officers look on as climate activists block access to Montgomery Street in front of the Palace Hotel in San Francisco on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit will take place at San Francisco’s Moscone Center from Monday, November 13 through Friday, November 17 and city government has implemented major steps to create safety and security for the thousands of delegates and visitors coming to the Bay Area. The measures will include heightened local, state and federal police presence, vehicle road closures and detours along with restricted pedestrian access inside the security zone. Additionally, a number of protests are expected throughout the week.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/junghokim-20231115-33771.jpg?w=2500" alt="Several uniformed police officers with badges stand in a line; one officer looks at the camera. People in yellow raincoats and a woman with a pink phone walk by." class="wp-image-290755"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">California Highway Patrol officers look on as climate activists block access to Montgomery Street in front of the Palace Hotel in San Francisco on November 15, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

Sam DeWitt, a senior researcher with the Arlington-based <a href="https://www.air.org/">American Institutes of Research</a>, said that police work undoubtedly has an impact on crime, but cautioned against attributing changes to targeted enforcement of certain offenses when, in fact, all crimes are declining across the nation.&nbsp;

Sam DeWitt, a senior researcher with the Arlington-based <a href="https://www.air.org/">American Institutes of Research</a>, said that police work undoubtedly has an impact on crime, but cautioned against attributing changes to targeted enforcement of certain offenses when, in fact, all crimes are declining across the nation.&nbsp;

“There are dozens of other explanations for why crime goes up and down,” said DeWitt. “Crime is not just down in San Francisco, it&#8217;s down across the United States.”

“There are dozens of other explanations for why crime goes up and down,” said DeWitt. “Crime is not just down in San Francisco, it's down across the United States.”

“There are dozens of other explanations for why crime goes up and down,” said DeWitt. “Crime is not just down in San Francisco, it&#8217;s down across the United States.”

Those explanations are complex, he said, and include factors like economic shifts and the fact that <a href="https://www.ppic.org/publication/are-younger-generations-committing-less-crime/#:~:text=The%20Office%20of%20Juvenile%20Justice,Lofstrom%20et%20al.">young people today are less likely to commit crimes</a> than previous generations.

Those explanations are complex, he said, and include factors like economic shifts and the fact that <a href="https://www.ppic.org/publication/are-younger-generations-committing-less-crime/#:~:text=The%20Office%20of%20Juvenile%20Justice,Lofstrom%20et%20al.">young people today are less likely to commit crimes</a> than previous generations.

Police officer Josh McFall speaks with Janet Jauregui who’s car window had been broken along Ninth Avenue near Lake Street in San Francisco on Monday, May 20, 2024. During the initial phase of the pandemic, Mark Dietrich observed an increase in occurrences of stolen luggage being discarded in the Richmond. This prompted him to take action by retrieving the abandoned bags, examining their contents, and making efforts to return them to their rightful owners.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240513-stolenluggagesleuth_0702.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman speaks into a phone, standing beside a police officer in uniform next to a car with a shattered window. The setting appears to be a suburban street." class="wp-image-290753"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Police officer Josh McFall speaks with Janet Jauregui, whose car window had been broken along Ninth Avenue near Lake Street on May 20, 2024.</figcaption></figure>

According to the <a href="https://counciloncj.org/category/crime-trends/">Council on Criminal </a>Justice’s 2023 report, “overall, crime rates are largely returning to pre-Covid levels as the nation distances itself from the height of the pandemic, but there are notable exceptions” like car theft, which is on the rise nationally. But San Francisco defied its rep as a criminal cesspool here, too, seeing an 18% drop in car thefts in the first six months of this year compared to 2023.

According to the <a href="https://counciloncj.org/category/crime-trends/">Council on Criminal </a>Justice’s 2023 report, “overall, crime rates are largely returning to pre-Covid levels as the nation distances itself from the height of the pandemic, but there are notable exceptions” like car theft, which is on the rise nationally. But San Francisco defied its rep as a criminal cesspool here, too, seeing an 18% drop in car thefts in the first six months of this year compared to 2023.

Not a typo: Crime in SF is now below pre-pandemic levels

Max Harrison-Caldwell

Six-year incumbent London Breed has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/breed-to-concede-sf-mayors-race-as-frustrated-voters-seek-change/">lost the mayoral election</a> and will soon surrender her post to mayor-elect <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/daniel-lurie-wins-san-francisco-mayor/">Daniel Lurie</a>.

Breed concedes mayor&#8217;s race as frustrated voters seek change

Congrats, Daniel Lurie. Your new job is going to suck

Six-year incumbent London Breed has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/breed-to-concede-sf-mayors-race-as-frustrated-voters-seek-change/">lost the mayoral election</a> and will soon surrender her post to mayor-elect <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/daniel-lurie-wins-san-francisco-mayor/">Daniel Lurie</a>.

Breed has been a major player in local politics since joining the Board of Supervisors in 2013. Four years later, when Mayor Ed Lee died suddenly, Breed took over as interim mayor and won a special election to remain mayor in 2018.

Breed has been a major player in local politics since joining the Board of Supervisors in 2013. Four years later, when Mayor Ed Lee died suddenly, Breed took over as interim mayor and won a special election to remain mayor in 2018.

She first entered the world of local government as an intern for Mayor Willie Brown. In 1999, she worked on his re-election campaign. The two remain friends to this day.

She first entered the world of local government as an intern for Mayor Willie Brown. In 1999, she worked on his re-election campaign. The two remain friends to this day.

A San Francisco native, Breed grew up in the Western Addition neighborhood. She has spoken often of her hardscrabble upbringing and the scourge of poverty in the city.

A San Francisco native, Breed grew up in the Western Addition neighborhood. She has spoken often of her hardscrabble upbringing and the scourge of poverty in the city.

As mayor, Breed championed housing construction, winning support from YIMBYs like state Sen. Scott Wiener. She has not said what she will do after leaving City Hall.

As mayor, Breed championed housing construction, winning support from YIMBYs like state Sen. Scott Wiener. She has not said what she will do after leaving City Hall.

From left, David Campos, London Breed, David Chiu, Norman Yee, Eric Mar and John Avalos take oath of office during the swearing-in ceremony at the Board of Supervisors meeting in San Francisco, Calif. on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00001.jpg?w=2282" alt="Three individuals stand in front of an audience with their right hands raised, appearing to take an oath. A U.S. flag is visible in the background." class="wp-image-330516"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">From left, David Campos, London Breed, and David Chiu take the oath of office during the swearing-in ceremony at the Board of Supervisors meeting on Jan. 8, 2013.</figcaption></figure>

City Attorney Dennis Herrera, at podium, gestures toward Board of Supervisors President London Breed, second from left, after announcing a settlement agreement on short term rentals during a news conference Monday, May 1, 2017, at City Hall in San Francisco. San Francisco and Airbnb have reached a deal to end a lawsuit over a law that fines the company for booking rentals not registered with the city. Under the settlement announced Monday, residents looking to list a rental can apply for a city registration number through Airbnb's website. In the background at left is former supervisor David Campos and Doug Engmann, third from left, with ShareBetter SF.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00002-edited.jpg" alt="Several individuals in formal attire stand in front of a San Francisco City Attorney seal, with U.S. and California flags visible behind them." class="wp-image-330696"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">City Attorney Dennis Herrera gestures toward Board of Supervisors President London Breed after announcing a settlement agreement on short-term rentals in a May 2017 news conference.</figcaption></figure>

Acting Mayor of San Francisco London Breed during a meeting with members of the United Palayaz, on Wednesday December 13, 2017, to promote a gun buy back program happening this weekend in San Francisco, Calif.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00003-edited.jpg" alt="A group of people is gathered in a room with colorful graffiti on the wall. One person wears a jacket that says &quot;It takes the hood to save the hood&quot; on the back." class="wp-image-330697"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed meets with members of the United Playaz to promote a gun buyback program in 2017.</figcaption></figure>

Mayor Ed Lee and Board of Supervisors President London Breed arrive for a City Hall news conference in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017, to discuss the city's plans for Sunday's protest after the National Park Service approved a permit to the Patriot Prayers group for a demonstration at Crissy Field.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00004.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two people stand indoors, the man in a suit with a purple tie. The woman, in a yellow jacket, is slightly closer. The background features ornate architecture." class="wp-image-330525"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor Ed Lee and Breed arrive at City Hall in 2017.</figcaption></figure>

Acting Mayor London Breed is surrounded by city officials during a City Hall news conference following the announcement that Mayor Ed Lee has died in San Francisco, on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2017.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00006.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman speaks at a podium surrounded by a large group of people. Cameras capture the event in a formal setting with a government emblem on the podium." class="wp-image-330527"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed speaks at a news conference after Mayor Ed Lee&#8217;s death in December 2017.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00006.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman speaks at a podium surrounded by a large group of people. Cameras capture the event in a formal setting with a government emblem on the podium." class="wp-image-330527"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed speaks at a news conference after Mayor Ed Lee's death in December 2017.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00006.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman speaks at a podium surrounded by a large group of people. Cameras capture the event in a formal setting with a government emblem on the podium." class="wp-image-330527"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed speaks at a news conference after Mayor Ed Lee&#8217;s death in December 2017.</figcaption></figure>

San Francisco Acting Mayor London Breed joins a community candlelight vigil in honor of Mayor Ed Lee at Portsmouth Square in Chinatown in San Francisco, on Thurs. December 21, 2017.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00005.jpg?w=2500" alt="Three people sit closely together, each holding a lit candle. They appear solemn, and the glow from the candles illuminates their faces." class="wp-image-330526"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed joins a community candlelight vigil in honor of Lee.</figcaption></figure>

San Francisco mayoral candidate London Breed speaks to supporters during an election night party Tuesday, June 5, 2018, in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00008.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman in a red outfit is speaking into a microphone at a campaign event with a supportive crowd and a large poster behind her." class="wp-image-330531"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed speaks to supporters during an election night party in 2018.</figcaption></figure>

Governor Gavin Newsom swears in Mayor-elect London Breed as she takes her oath of office outside City Hall July 11, 2018 in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00009-edited.jpg" alt="Two people are in front of elaborate gold decorations, raising their hands in a ceremony. One is holding a document, and there are microphones and flags nearby." class="wp-image-330698"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Governor Gavin Newsom swears in Mayor-elect London Breed as she takes her oath of office outside City Hall on July 11, 2018.</figcaption></figure>

SF Mayor London Breed talks with a homeless man in front of Outfit on Castro Street as she takes a neighborhood walk this morning on Monday, Aug. 13, 2018 in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00010.jpeg?w=2241" alt="A person in a red hoodie sits on the sidewalk with a keyboard and notebook, engaging with a woman in a blue suit, as people and vehicles pass by." class="wp-image-330533"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed talks with a homeless man on Castro Street in 2018.</figcaption></figure>

Suzy Loftus (l to r), interim district attorney, stands with Mayor London Breed (right) as she speaks at a press conference at Far East Cafe regarding the appointment of Suzy Loftus (left) as interim district attorney on Friday October 4, 2019 in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00011.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two women are in front of a red curtain. One is speaking at a podium, wearing a red outfit, and the other stands next to her in blue, smiling and clasping her hands." class="wp-image-330534"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed speaks at a 2019 press conference announcing the appointment of Suzy Loftus, left, as interim district attorney.</figcaption></figure>

(l-r) Warriors President and Chief Operating Officer Rick Welts, San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Warriors co-owners Peter Guber and Joe Lacob, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Kristin Lemkau of JP Morgan cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the Chase Center in San Francisco, California, on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2019.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00012.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people stand smiling in front of Chase Center, holding a large yellow ribbon with &quot;Ribbon Cutting, September 3, 2019&quot; written on it." class="wp-image-330535"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed joins Golden State Warriors executives and Gov. Gavin Newsom for a ribbon-cutting event at the Chase Center&#8217;s opening ceremony in 2019.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00012.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people stand smiling in front of Chase Center, holding a large yellow ribbon with &quot;Ribbon Cutting, September 3, 2019&quot; written on it." class="wp-image-330535"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed joins Golden State Warriors executives and Gov. Gavin Newsom for a ribbon-cutting event at the Chase Center's opening ceremony in 2019.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00012.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people stand smiling in front of Chase Center, holding a large yellow ribbon with &quot;Ribbon Cutting, September 3, 2019&quot; written on it." class="wp-image-330535"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed joins Golden State Warriors executives and Gov. Gavin Newsom for a ribbon-cutting event at the Chase Center&#8217;s opening ceremony in 2019.</figcaption></figure>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 15: San Francisco police chief William Scott (L) looks on as San Francisco Mayor London Breed speaks during a news conference at the future site of a Transitional Age Youth Navigation Center on January 15, 2020 in San Francisco, California. San Francisco Mayor London Breed announced the opening of a new SAFE Navigation center for the homeless at 33 Gough. The opening brings the total number of new shelter beds that are opened, under construction of in development to more than 1,000 before the end of the year.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00013.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person is speaking in front of a board displaying plans for 1,000 new shelter beds by 2020, detailing the number opened and in development. A man stands behind." class="wp-image-330536"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco police chief Bill Scott looks on as Breed speaks during a news conference at the future site of a homeless shelter in 2020.</figcaption></figure>

San Francisco Mayor London Breed takes a knee for eight minutes and forty six seconds in honor of George Floyd at City Hall on Tuesday, June 9, 2020, in San Francisco. Black Lives Matter demonstrations continued in the wake of the death of George Floyd, who was killed in Minneapolis police custody.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00014.jpg?w=1144" alt="A woman in a light suit kneels in front of a City Hall entrance. Behind her, three people stand; one holds a sign reading, &quot;Erase Hate, Bigotry, Unfair Treatment.&quot;" class="wp-image-330537"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed takes a knee in honor of George Floyd at City Hall in June 2020.</figcaption></figure>

Honorable judge Teri Jackson, left, administers the Mayoral oath of office to London N. Breed, right, in the rotunda at City Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2020, in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00015.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person in a judicial robe is administering an oath to a woman in a burgundy suit, both raising their right hands. A microphone and blue flowers are nearby." class="wp-image-330542"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed takes the oath of office in 2020.</figcaption></figure>

San Francisco Mayor London Breed speaks alongside healthcare leaders to announce the opening of a mass COVID-19 vaccination site at Moscone South in San Francisco, Calif. Thursday, February 4, 2021. The vaccination hub will officially open to Bay Area residents age 65 years and older and health care workers with appointments available on the MyTurn website starting on Friday, Feb. 5th. Moscone Center will initially open at a lower vaccination capacity due to limited vaccine supply. Once adequate vaccine supply is distributed by the state of California, the Moscone Center expects to administer between 7,000 to 10,000 COVID-19 vaccines a day. All vaccinations at Moscone Center will be by appointment only for anyone eligible to receive the vaccine regardless of health coverage.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00016.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman speaks at a podium wearing a mask in a COVID-19 vaccination hub, with a large sign and backdrop displaying &quot;MOSCONE SOUTH COVID-19 VACCINATION HUB.&quot;" class="wp-image-330543"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed speaks alongside healthcare leaders to announce the opening of a mass COVID-19 vaccination site at Moscone South in 2021.</figcaption></figure>

Mayor London Breed, left, listens to SFPD Chief Bill Scott at a press conference on Jan. 25, 2022.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/breed_photos_00017-edited.jpg" alt="A woman in a red coat with pearl earrings looks serious as she stands outside. In the foreground, a uniformed police officer is partially visible." class="wp-image-330699"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Breed listens to SFPD Chief Bill Scott during a press conference in 2022.</figcaption></figure>

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Video: SF cops use drones to catch bippers on dirt bikes and bust up sideshows

Lurie picks gun violence activist to replace ousted police commissioner

Not a typo: Crime in SF is now below pre-pandemic levels

Photos: London Breed’s rise and fall in San Francisco politics

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