Josh Koehn

Mike Ege

An unusual plan to grill Mayor London Breed on the city’s drug crisis in an <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/peskin-challenges-breed-come-to-un-plaza-and-address-drug-crisis/">open-air forum Tuesday at United Nations Plaza</a>—one of San Francisco’s worst drug hot spots—is moving forward in what could be must-see political theater.

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An unusual plan to grill Mayor London Breed on the city’s drug crisis in an <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/peskin-challenges-breed-come-to-un-plaza-and-address-drug-crisis/">open-air forum Tuesday at United Nations Plaza</a>—one of San Francisco’s worst drug hot spots—is moving forward in what could be must-see political theater.

Aaron Peskin, president of the Board of Supervisors, called for the board’s monthly Q&amp;A session with the mayor to be held outdoors at U.N. Plaza to draw more attention to the city’s inability to adequately address drug-dealing and deadly overdoses.

Aaron Peskin, president of the Board of Supervisors, called for the board’s monthly Q&amp;A session with the mayor to be held outdoors at U.N. Plaza to draw more attention to the city’s inability to adequately address drug-dealing and deadly overdoses.

But a lot could go wrong in what some City Hall insiders are calling a performative stunt. The public showdown requires coordination from numerous departments and staff, and no shortage of surprises could crop up in the outdoor plaza known for drugs and petty crime.&nbsp;

But a lot could go wrong in what some City Hall insiders are calling a performative stunt. The public showdown requires coordination from numerous departments and staff, and no shortage of surprises could crop up in the outdoor plaza known for drugs and petty crime.&nbsp;

The Standard decided to take a closer look at the unprecedented hearing—the board was created in 1856, and city officials believe no meeting has ever been convened in such a fashion—as well as lay out who stands to win and lose in this political power struggle.&nbsp;

The Standard decided to take a closer look at the unprecedented hearing—the board was created in 1856, and city officials believe no meeting has ever been convened in such a fashion—as well as lay out who stands to win and lose in this political power struggle.&nbsp;

A large crowd of p[eople hang out in United Nations Plaza in San Francisco on May 11, 2023. | Jason Henry for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/RealUNPlaza040523_-0037-2500x1667.jpg" alt="People gathered in UN Plaza" class="wp-image-161967"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A large crowd of people hang out in United Nations Plaza in San Francisco on May 11, 2023. | Jason Henry for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/RealUNPlaza040523_-0037-2500x1667.jpg" alt="People gathered in UN Plaza" class="wp-image-161967"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A large crowd of people hang out in United Nations Plaza in San Francisco on May 11, 2023. | Jason Henry for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drugs-take-center-stage">Drugs Take Center Stage</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drugs-take-center-stage">Drugs Take Center Stage</h2>

On April 12, Peskin announced that a future meeting would be held at U.N. Plaza for the specific purpose of challenging Breed on her and the city’s record in confronting open-air drug-dealing. Drug overdoses claimed the lives of 1,908 people in San Francisco from 2020 through 2022, and more than <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/heres-what-chp-will-actually-do-in-downtown-sf-to-battle-fentanyl-crisis/">200 people have died from drug overdoses this year</a>.

On April 12, Peskin announced that a future meeting would be held at U.N. Plaza for the specific purpose of challenging Breed on her and the city’s record in confronting open-air drug-dealing. Drug overdoses claimed the lives of 1,908 people in San Francisco from 2020 through 2022, and more than <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/heres-what-chp-will-actually-do-in-downtown-sf-to-battle-fentanyl-crisis/">200 people have died from drug overdoses this year</a>.

Police are expected to clear the area, and staff will set up tables and cameras to livestream the meeting starting at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Supervisors are allowed to question the mayor every month on a rotating basis, and this meeting will allow questions from representatives of Districts 1-4: Supervisors Connie Chan, Catherine Stefani, Peskin and Joel Engardio.

Police are expected to clear the area, and staff will set up tables and cameras to livestream the meeting starting at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Supervisors are allowed to question the mayor every month on a rotating basis, and this meeting will allow questions from representatives of Districts 1-4: Supervisors Connie Chan, Catherine Stefani, Peskin and Joel Engardio.

Engardio and Stefani said they do not plan to ask questions, while Chan said in a text message she supports the outdoor hearing.

Engardio and Stefani said they do not plan to ask questions, while Chan said in a text message she supports the outdoor hearing.

“To be frank, we have conversations on tackling the public health crisis on our streets in City Hall daily, but it is critical for the public to witness our mayor and all 11 members of the Board of Supervisors having that very dialogue with U.N. Plaza as the backdrop,” Chan said.

“To be frank, we have conversations on tackling the public health crisis on our streets in City Hall daily, but it is critical for the public to witness our mayor and all 11 members of the Board of Supervisors having that very dialogue with U.N. Plaza as the backdrop,” Chan said.

Peskin said he intends to ferret out more details on how the city is working with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/gavin-newsom-tells-sfpd-to-work-with-national-guard-chp-against-drug-crisis/">National Guard and California Highway Patrol to disrupt drug trafficking</a>, especially around U.N. Plaza.

Peskin said he intends to ferret out more details on how the city is working with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/gavin-newsom-tells-sfpd-to-work-with-national-guard-chp-against-drug-crisis/">National Guard and California Highway Patrol to disrupt drug trafficking</a>, especially around U.N. Plaza.

“It was declared a crisis, but we haven't actually treated it like a crisis,” he said, adding that the city often pushes drug dealers to another corner without a long-term strategy.

“It was declared a crisis, but we haven't actually treated it like a crisis,” he said, adding that the city often pushes drug dealers to another corner without a long-term strategy.

Mayor London Breed (left) and Supervisor Aaron Peskin (right). | Art by Sophie Bearman

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/breedpeskin-2-2.jpg" alt="Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Aaron Peskin" class="wp-image-40742"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed, left, and Supervisor Aaron Peskin will likely square off at Tuesday’s meeting over San Francisco’s response to the drug crisis. | Art by Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

Once the Q&amp;A portion of the meeting is completed, supervisors and staff will return to City Hall to hold the rest of the regular weekly meeting.&nbsp;

Once the Q&amp;A portion of the meeting is completed, supervisors and staff will return to City Hall to hold the rest of the regular weekly meeting.&nbsp;

This may seem like a spectacle for what’s normally a 15-minute affair, but Peskin said he might hold a second Q&amp;A with the mayor at 16th and Mission streets—another known hot spot for drug activity. And he insisted it won’t be a “dog-and-pony show.”

This may seem like a spectacle for what’s normally a 15-minute affair, but Peskin said he might hold a second Q&amp;A with the mayor at 16th and Mission streets—another known hot spot for drug activity. And he insisted it won’t be a “dog-and-pony show.”

“It’s about focusing the government and decision makers' attention on how to effectively fix these spots,” Peskin told The Standard.&nbsp;

“It’s about focusing the government and decision makers' attention on how to effectively fix these spots,” Peskin told The Standard.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-could-go-wrong">What Could Go Wrong?</h2>

Holding court at U.N. Plaza could quickly go off the rails for a variety of reasons, as there are risks on all sides in trying to hold the mayor’s feet to the fire in public.&nbsp;

Holding court at U.N. Plaza could quickly go off the rails for a variety of reasons, as there are risks on all sides in trying to hold the mayor’s feet to the fire in public.&nbsp;

One issue is whether this is a good use of taxpayer time and money. Peskin said his request to hold the meeting at U.N. Plaza will cost $4,650: $2,000 for the SF Gov TV equipment, $2,000 for “media services” and $650 for Board of Supervisors tablecloths.

One issue is whether this is a good use of taxpayer time and money. Peskin said his request to hold the meeting at U.N. Plaza will cost $4,650: $2,000 for the SF Gov TV equipment, $2,000 for “media services” and $650 for Board of Supervisors tablecloths.

People sit with their belongings in United Nations Plaza in San Francisco on May 11, 2023. | Jason Henry for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/RealUNPlaza040523_-0053-2500x1667.jpg" alt="People gathered in UN Plaza with there belongings" class="wp-image-162003"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">People sit with their belongings in United Nations Plaza in San Francisco on May 11, 2023. | Jason Henry for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Peskin said the pomp and circumstance will be worth it if it gets “neighborhoods the relief that has been long in coming."

Peskin said the pomp and circumstance will be worth it if it gets “neighborhoods the relief that has been long in coming."

For her part, Breed seems unbothered by Peskin’s roadshow.

For her part, Breed seems unbothered by Peskin’s roadshow.

“The mayor is having conversations about public safety every day with residents, businesses, city leaders and partners, and she’s very comfortable having the conversation,” the Mayor’s Office said in a statement.

“The mayor is having conversations about public safety every day with residents, businesses, city leaders and partners, and she’s very comfortable having the conversation,” the Mayor’s Office said in a statement.

Of course, protesters in San Francisco are usually quick to strike, as recently seen by the outrage over District Attorney <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/sf-da-jenkins-slams-walton-over-walgreens-shooting-case/">Brooke Jenkins’ decision not to file charges in the killing of Banko Brown</a>. Despite any efforts to secure the location, it likely wouldn’t take much to disrupt a meeting that itself is trying to be disruptive.

Of course, protesters in San Francisco are usually quick to strike, as recently seen by the outrage over District Attorney <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/sf-da-jenkins-slams-walton-over-walgreens-shooting-case/">Brooke Jenkins’ decision not to file charges in the killing of Banko Brown</a>. Despite any efforts to secure the location, it likely wouldn’t take much to disrupt a meeting that itself is trying to be disruptive.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mayor-breed-s-rebuttal">Mayor Breed’s Rebuttal</h2>

U.N. Plaza has become a symbol to many of the city’s collective fecklessness in the face of the fentanyl epidemic. It was the site of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/tenderloin-center-clients-warn-of-disaster-as-controversial-drug-site-heads-for-closure/">Tenderloin Center</a>, which was initially pitched as a gateway for services but quickly evolved into a de facto safe consumption site. Facing criticism and legal scrutiny, the center closed down after 11 months.

U.N. Plaza has become a symbol to many of the city’s collective fecklessness in the face of the fentanyl epidemic. It was the site of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/tenderloin-center-clients-warn-of-disaster-as-controversial-drug-site-heads-for-closure/">Tenderloin Center</a>, which was initially pitched as a gateway for services but quickly evolved into a de facto safe consumption site. Facing criticism and legal scrutiny, the center closed down after 11 months.

Unhoused San Franciscans line up outside the Tenderloin Center in San Francisco on June 17, 2022.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/tenderloinLinkageCenter_INLIEND02.jpg" alt="The drug center in UN Plaza" class="wp-image-55729"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">People line up outside the Tenderloin Center in San Francisco on June 17, 2022. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Meanwhile, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/san-francsico-board-supervisors-halt-payoff-harm-reduction/">“wellness hubs” designed to replace the Tenderloin Center</a> have been stalled by concerns over how to pay for them without saddling the city with liability.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/san-francsico-board-supervisors-halt-payoff-harm-reduction/">“wellness hubs” designed to replace the Tenderloin Center</a> have been stalled by concerns over how to pay for them without saddling the city with liability.&nbsp;

Breed’s defense Tuesday will likely note she has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/san-francisco-supervisor-asks-for-state-federal-help-in-fentanyl-crisis/">calling for outside help</a> since at least March 27, when she sent a letter to newly appointed U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey and cited a police shortage and the “sheer volume of drug dealing on our streets.”

Breed’s defense Tuesday will likely note she has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/san-francisco-supervisor-asks-for-state-federal-help-in-fentanyl-crisis/">calling for outside help</a> since at least March 27, when she sent a letter to newly appointed U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey and cited a police shortage and the “sheer volume of drug dealing on our streets.”

The mayor also lobbied Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who issued a public statement urging Attorney General Merrick Garland to include San Francisco in Operation Overdrive, an initiative by the Drug Enforcement Agency to use “data-driven, intelligence-led approach to identifying and dismantling criminal drug networks.”

The mayor also lobbied Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who issued a public statement urging Attorney General Merrick Garland to include San Francisco in Operation Overdrive, an initiative by the Drug Enforcement Agency to use “data-driven, intelligence-led approach to identifying and dismantling criminal drug networks.”

Since Jenkins took over as district attorney, police and prosecutors have been arresting and charging drug dealers at higher rates, respectively. But to many observers, those efforts still haven't made much of a dent. Non-police initiatives like street ambassadors from Urban Alchemy may help in disrupting street deals by day, but the Tenderloin and other areas impacted by trafficking generally return to form by night.

Since Jenkins took over as district attorney, police and prosecutors have been arresting and charging drug dealers at higher rates, respectively. But to many observers, those efforts still haven't made much of a dent. Non-police initiatives like street ambassadors from Urban Alchemy may help in disrupting street deals by day, but the Tenderloin and other areas impacted by trafficking generally return to form by night.

The biggest question for Breed to answer is how the CHP and National Guard deployment will improve the areas most impacted by drugs. So far, details have been scant.

The biggest question for Breed to answer is how the CHP and National Guard deployment will improve the areas most impacted by drugs. So far, details have been scant.

San Francisco mayor faces outdoor Q&A over drug crisis Tuesday

Jonah Owen Lamb

Alan Byard starts his shift by scribbling his name on a sign-in sheet at the police station in San Francisco’s Fillmore District. After a briefing on the area’s crimes, he starts his unmarked Crown Victoria and radios to dispatch that he is on duty.&nbsp;

Alan Byard starts his shift by scribbling his name on a sign-in sheet at the police station in San Francisco’s Fillmore District. After a briefing on the area’s crimes, he starts his unmarked Crown Victoria and radios to dispatch that he is on duty.&nbsp;

Byard wears a dark blue uniform like any police officer, except for the light blue stripe down his pants. A city seal is sewn into its shoulder, and he wears a six-point star on his chest and carries a gun. But he’s not a police officer. The 68-year-old is not a security guard, either. Byard is what’s known as a “patrol special.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Byard wears a dark blue uniform like any police officer, except for the light blue stripe down his pants. A city seal is sewn into its shoulder, and he wears a six-point star on his chest and carries a gun. But he’s not a police officer. The 68-year-old is not a security guard, either. Byard is what’s known as a “patrol special.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Patrol specials operate in a realm between San Francisco police and for-hire private security. Private businesses and residents pay for their services, but unlike private security guards, which are overseen by a state agency, patrol specials are licensed by the city. They have a much closer and more official relationship with the San Francisco Police Department, and the city gives them the right to patrol the streets in designated areas, referred to as beats. However, that’s a privilege they must pay for.  

Patrol specials operate in a realm between San Francisco police and for-hire private security. Private businesses and residents pay for their services, but unlike private security guards, which are overseen by a state agency, patrol specials are licensed by the city. They have a much closer and more official relationship with the San Francisco Police Department, and the city gives them the right to patrol the streets in designated areas, referred to as beats. However, that’s a privilege they must pay for.

Byard currently patrols three beats in the Marina District and has 190 paying customers—local merchants and residents looking to secure their property. He charges $65 a month for providing security for a residence, and the service for businesses starts at $300 a month. That can include check-ins on a home when someone has gone on vacation or daily looks at a business after hours. 

Byard currently patrols three beats in the Marina District and has 190 paying customers—local merchants and residents looking to secure their property. He charges $65 a month for providing security for a residence, and the service for businesses starts at $300 a month. That can include check-ins on a home when someone has gone on vacation or daily looks at a business after hours.

When Byard started what would become his five decades-plus patrol special career in 1970, he was one of 450 patrolling the city. Today, he is the last patrol special on duty—and he plans to retire soon.&nbsp;

When Byard started what would become his five decades-plus patrol special career in 1970, he was one of 450 patrolling the city. Today, he is the last patrol special on duty—and he plans to retire soon.&nbsp;

A composite image of San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Alan Byard’s gun with a smiley face sticker on the bottom of the magazine, left, and a detail of his uniform and badge, right, in San Francisco on Wednesday July 26, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/INLINED5_TheReturnPatrolSpecial072823-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-186273"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A composite image of San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Alan Byard’s gun with a smiley face sticker on the bottom of the magazine, left, and a detail of his uniform and badge, right, in San Francisco on Wednesday July 26, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

With property crime and public safety concerns on the rise amid what police characterize as a severe staffing crisis in their ranks—and increased local scrutiny of the private security industry after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/05/04/walgreens-shooting-guard-who-killed-banko-brown-gives-interview/">one of the roughly 10,000 guards working in San Francisco fatally shot an unarmed man</a>—some city leaders are floating the idea of bringing back the patrol special program.

Exclusive: Security guard who killed Banko Brown at SF Walgreens speaks out

With property crime and public safety concerns on the rise amid what police characterize as a severe staffing crisis in their ranks—and increased local scrutiny of the private security industry after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/05/04/walgreens-shooting-guard-who-killed-banko-brown-gives-interview/">one of the roughly 10,000 guards working in San Francisco fatally shot an unarmed man</a>—some city leaders are floating the idea of bringing back the patrol special program.

“Given the ongoing police staffing crisis, public safety must be an all-hands-on-deck effort,” Supervisor Catherine Stefani, who represents part of the district Byard patrols, told The Standard. “District 2 has one of San Francisco’s last remaining patrol specials, but administrative hurdles have hampered its effectiveness and slowed recruiting.”

“Given the ongoing police staffing crisis, public safety must be an all-hands-on-deck effort,” Supervisor Catherine Stefani, who represents part of the district Byard patrols, told The Standard. “District 2 has one of San Francisco’s last remaining patrol specials, but administrative hurdles have hampered its effectiveness and slowed recruiting.”

Discussions around bringing back the program have been ongoing for years, but the idea is gaining momentum following a number of recent events involving security guards, including a 2022 break-in at the Tenderloin’s <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/San-Francisco-jazz-Black-Cat-gets-burglarized-17336155.php">Black Cat jazz club</a> that left the business open to hours of looting after police came and left; an incident that same year in the Castro District involved security guards allegedly racially profiling the public; and the killing of Banko Brown this year in an altercation over stolen candy at a Walgreens.

Discussions around bringing back the program have been ongoing for years, but the idea is gaining momentum following a number of recent events involving security guards, including a 2022 break-in at the Tenderloin’s <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/San-Francisco-jazz-Black-Cat-gets-burglarized-17336155.php">Black Cat jazz club</a> that left the business open to hours of looting after police came and left; an incident that same year in the Castro District involved security guards allegedly racially profiling the public; and the killing of Banko Brown this year in an altercation over stolen candy at a Walgreens.

Brown’s killing is the latest high-profile incident to spark public outcry and calls by city lawmakers to transform the private security guard industry, which some say is too lightly regulated by the state. It also served as a reminder that while the <a href="https://sf.gov/sites/default/files/2022-09/PoliceCommission090722-Article%2025%20Plan_SFPD%20Proposal.pdf">city passed a law in 1972</a> giving SFPD the power to regulate security guards, the department never exercised it. (That law, known as Article 25, is expected to be reviewed this fall, according to Police Commissioner Kevin Benedicto.)

Brown’s killing is the latest high-profile incident to spark public outcry and calls by city lawmakers to transform the private security guard industry, which some say is too lightly regulated by the state. It also served as a reminder that while the <a href="https://sf.gov/sites/default/files/2022-09/PoliceCommission090722-Article%2025%20Plan_SFPD%20Proposal.pdf">city passed a law in 1972</a> giving SFPD the power to regulate security guards, the department never exercised it. (That law, known as Article 25, is expected to be reviewed this fall, according to Police Commissioner Kevin Benedicto.)

Proponents of the expansion of the patrol special ranks, including Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Stefani, argue that incidents like these would have ended differently if the “specials,” as they call themselves, had been on duty.&nbsp;

Proponents of the expansion of the patrol special ranks, including Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Stefani, argue that incidents like these would have ended differently if the “specials,” as they call themselves, had been on duty.&nbsp;

San Francisco Police Commissioner Debra Walker speaks during the hearing, in San Francisco on Wednesday, July 19, 2023. Community members attended the hearing at City Hall to gather details and about the Dolores Hill Bomb and raise qualms about the subsequent arrests. | Jeremy Chen/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SkateBombFolo071923_21.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-183700"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Police Commissioner Debra Walker speaks during a hearing on July 19 about the Dolores Hill Bomb and subsequent arrests. </figcaption></figure>

Byard, for his part, said that he would have used a less-lethal weapon to stop Brown and, in the case of the Black Cat, would have stayed at the scene and made sure the business was secured.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Byard, for his part, said that he would have used a less-lethal weapon to stop Brown and, in the case of the Black Cat, would have stayed at the scene and made sure the business was secured.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There’s a real interest in using it as a tool to help coordinate with the private sector security,” said Police Commissioner Debra Walker, who has been tasked by the commission’s president, Cindy Elias, with putting together a plan to revive the program. “There’s a way of inserting more oversight, more cooperation with the department […] and more rules that they have to follow.”

“There’s a real interest in using it as a tool to help coordinate with the private sector security,” said Police Commissioner Debra Walker, who has been tasked by the commission’s president, Cindy Elias, with putting together a plan to revive the program. “There’s a way of inserting more oversight, more cooperation with the department […] and more rules that they have to follow.”

Walker said the planning will be a joint effort between the commission, police, the police union and the business community. A concrete plan could be presented to the commission for approval this fall, she said.&nbsp;

Walker said the planning will be a joint effort between the commission, police, the police union and the business community. A concrete plan could be presented to the commission for approval this fall, she said.&nbsp;

“We need more blue on the sidewalks, and I don’t think there’s anyone disagreeing with that. This is one way of doing it. We are looking at reimagining it,” said Randall Scott, the head of the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District, who said he was working with the San Francisco Police Officers Association and SFPD on the issue.

“We need more blue on the sidewalks, and I don’t think there’s anyone disagreeing with that. This is one way of doing it. We are looking at reimagining it,” said Randall Scott, the head of the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District, who said he was working with the San Francisco Police Officers Association and SFPD on the issue.

When asked for comment on what role patrol specials might play in San Francisco's future, and what role SFPD had in the planning, spokesperson Evan Sernoffsky would only say that the department was in discussions with the Police Commission.

When asked for comment on what role patrol specials might play in San Francisco's future, and what role SFPD had in the planning, spokesperson Evan Sernoffsky would only say that the department was in discussions with the Police Commission.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-patrol-specials-work">How Patrol Specials Work&nbsp;</h2>

The Police Commission licenses patrol specials after they pass background checks and undergo 64 hours of required training at the police academy, which includes courses on firearms and criminal law. Each year, they are required to attend refresher courses on firearm use. They are allowed to carry a gun and to communicate with police dispatch. Any disciplinary actions are overseen by the commission, too.&nbsp;

The Police Commission licenses patrol specials after they pass background checks and undergo 64 hours of required training at the police academy, which includes courses on firearms and criminal law. Each year, they are required to attend refresher courses on firearm use. They are allowed to carry a gun and to communicate with police dispatch. Any disciplinary actions are overseen by the commission, too.&nbsp;

In contrast, California only requires security guards to complete a 32-hour course on the laws around arresting and protecting people and property, and guards must attend an annual eight-hour refresher course. Security guards are also required to get a special license to carry a gun.&nbsp;

In contrast, California only requires security guards to complete a 32-hour course on the laws around arresting and protecting people and property, and guards must attend an annual eight-hour refresher course. Security guards are also required to get a special license to carry a gun.&nbsp;

One of the major differences between private security and patrol specials, aside from the city oversight, is that they are legally allowed to patrol the streets, whereas security guards technically are not allowed to do so—they are supposed to stick to private property. Patrol specials are also given access to police radios and dispatch and can even be sent to a call by police.&nbsp;

One of the major differences between private security and patrol specials, aside from the city oversight, is that they are legally allowed to patrol the streets, whereas security guards technically are not allowed to do so—they are supposed to stick to private property. Patrol specials are also given access to police radios and dispatch and can even be sent to a call by police.&nbsp;

San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Alan Byard flashes a light at the car of one of his clients during his regular patrol in the Marina District in San Francisco on Wednesday July 26, 2023. City leaders have called into question the thin oversight they have over the private security industry and now there are plans to expand a longstanding city program called Special Patrols, which permits armed security to patrol the streets.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/INLINED4_TheReturnPatrolSpecial072823-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-186272"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Alan Byard flashes a light at a car belonging to one of his clients during his Marina District patrol.</figcaption></figure>

Each individual patrol special is allowed three beats, and they negotiate privately with businesses and homeowners in the area to provide services.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Each individual patrol special is allowed three beats, and they negotiate privately with businesses and homeowners in the area to provide services.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Walker, of the Police Commission, said the newly imagined patrol special program would involve modernizing and beefing up what currently exists. Patrol specials might be required to undergo additional training, report far more data about what they do and perhaps wear body cameras, Walker said. Neither she nor others The Standard spoke to were able to provide details about the enhanced training and reporting under consideration.

Walker, of the Police Commission, said the newly imagined patrol special program would involve modernizing and beefing up what currently exists. Patrol specials might be required to undergo additional training, report far more data about what they do and perhaps wear body cameras, Walker said. Neither she nor others The Standard spoke to were able to provide details about the enhanced training and reporting under consideration.

While patrol specials would not replace police, Walker said, they could do much of the community policing that an understaffed police department doesn't have time for. That could include liaising with city departments for health or homelessness issues, for example.

While patrol specials would not replace police, Walker said, they could do much of the community policing that an understaffed police department doesn't have time for. That could include liaising with city departments for health or homelessness issues, for example.

Scott of the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District said the majority of the 14 members of the San Francisco Benefit District Alliance, of which he is president, supports the plan. He speculated the rollout might start with expanded patrol specials in a few districts like Fisherman’s Wharf and the Castro as a sort of pilot program. The staffing, he said, could come from security guards already working for a benefit district who could become patrol specials. Scott also said he has spoken with former police officers who have expressed interest.&nbsp;

Scott of the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District said the majority of the 14 members of the San Francisco Benefit District Alliance, of which he is president, supports the plan. He speculated the rollout might start with expanded patrol specials in a few districts like Fisherman’s Wharf and the Castro as a sort of pilot program. The staffing, he said, could come from security guards already working for a benefit district who could become patrol specials. Scott also said he has spoken with former police officers who have expressed interest.&nbsp;

Supervisor Stefani said she is pushing for more expediency in getting background checks done on potential patrol specials so they are ready to hit the streets.

Supervisor Stefani said she is pushing for more expediency in getting background checks done on potential patrol specials so they are ready to hit the streets.

But not everyone is enthusiastic about the plan.&nbsp;

But not everyone is enthusiastic about the plan.&nbsp;

Ken Lomba, who heads the San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, said he thinks the city should prioritize using more deputies on the streets before it expands or reimagines patrol specials.&nbsp;

Ken Lomba, who heads the San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, said he thinks the city should prioritize using more deputies on the streets before it expands or reimagines patrol specials.&nbsp;

San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Alan Byard gets in his car on Chestnut and Steiner streets in the Marina District in San Francisco on Wednesday July 26, 2023. City leaders have called into question the thin oversight they have over the private security industry and now there are plans to expand a longstanding city program called Special Patrols, which permits armed security to patrol the streets.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/INLINED3_TheReturnPatrolSpecial072823.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-186271"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Alan Byard enters his cruiser on Chestnut and Steiner streets in the Marina District on Wednesday July 26, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

“It’s a good idea for deputy sheriffs to do,” Lomba said. “But it’s a bad idea for non-law enforcement to do police special work.”&nbsp;

“It’s a good idea for deputy sheriffs to do,” Lomba said. “But it’s a bad idea for non-law enforcement to do police special work.”&nbsp;

Others think more uniformed officers with guns—whether they are cops or not—is a move in the wrong direction.&nbsp;

Others think more uniformed officers with guns—whether they are cops or not—is a move in the wrong direction.&nbsp;

Anti Police-Terror Project Deputy Director James Burch said he is concerned about the plan because it would put more people on the streets with less accountability and transparency than police. He worries that the plan would lead to “more of the same” kind of events like Brown's death.&nbsp;

Anti Police-Terror Project Deputy Director James Burch said he is concerned about the plan because it would put more people on the streets with less accountability and transparency than police. He worries that the plan would lead to “more of the same” kind of events like Brown's death.&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed’s office did not respond to a request for comment on her view of expanding the patrol specials program.&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed’s office did not respond to a request for comment on her view of expanding the patrol specials program.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-gold-rush-era-origin-story">A Gold Rush-Era Origin Story</h2>

Members of the Patrol Specials in 1895. The San Francisco Patrol Special Police is a private special police that was founded in 1847 and is governed by the City Charter.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/INLINED1_TheReturnPatrolSpecial072823.jpg?w=1800" alt="" class="wp-image-185884"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Members of the Patrol Specials in 1895. The San Francisco Patrol Special Police is a private special police force that was founded in 1847 and is governed by the City Charter.</figcaption></figure>

Patrol specials have a long, storied history—they were created when the city had no police department. There is even a square in the Castro—<a href="https://castrocbd.org/jane-warner-plaza/">Jane Warner Plaza</a>—named for a much beloved special. And a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ik-egj9RiGs">1992 film called Kuffs</a>, starring Christian Slater as a patrol special, put the San Francisco institution on the silver screen.

Patrol specials have a long, storied history—they were created when the city had no police department. There is even a square in the Castro—<a href="https://castrocbd.org/jane-warner-plaza/">Jane Warner Plaza</a>—named for a much beloved special. And a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ik-egj9RiGs">1992 film called Kuffs</a>, starring Christian Slater as a patrol special, put the San Francisco institution on the silver screen.

Patrol specials date back to the Gold Rush era and were organized to provide protection for merchants and citizens when the city was lawless, wrote the city controller in 2010.&nbsp;

Patrol specials date back to the Gold Rush era and were organized to provide protection for merchants and citizens when the city was lawless, wrote the city controller in 2010.&nbsp;

In 1935, the city wrote the existence of patrol specials into the city charter. The current rules and regulations governed by the commission were set up in the 1970s when hundreds of patrol specials still walked the streets.&nbsp;

In 1935, the city wrote the existence of patrol specials into the city charter. The current rules and regulations governed by the commission were set up in the 1970s when hundreds of patrol specials still walked the streets.&nbsp;

In 1982, the city was divided into 64 beats patrolled by specials who purchased beats for as little as $500.&nbsp;

In 1982, the city was divided into 64 beats patrolled by specials who purchased beats for as little as $500.&nbsp;

By 2010, there were just 26 active beats.&nbsp;

By 2010, there were just 26 active beats.&nbsp;

Patrol specials don’t have an unblemished history.&nbsp;

Patrol specials don’t have an unblemished history.&nbsp;

In 1996, a patrol special in the Castro named Alan Stancombe was charged with felony assault and battery in connection to an arrest in 1994 of a pickpocket outside of a bar.&nbsp;

In 1996, a patrol special in the Castro named Alan Stancombe was charged with felony assault and battery in connection to an arrest in 1994 of a pickpocket outside of a bar.&nbsp;

As recently as 2010, a controller’s report noted that the patrol special program was a liability to the city and recommended it be disbanded. 

As recently as 2010, a controller’s report noted that the patrol special program was a liability to the city and recommended it be disbanded.

San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Alan Byard poses for a portrait in front of the Palace of Fine Arts on Baker Street in the Marina District in San Francisco on Wednesday July 26, 2023. City leaders have called into question the thin oversight they have over the private security industry and now there are plans to expand a longstanding city program called Special Patrols, which permits armed security to patrol the streets.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/INLINED7_TheReturnPatrolSpecial072823.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-186274"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Alan Byard poses for a portrait in front of the Palace of Fine Arts on Baker Street in the Marina District on Wednesday July 26, 2023. </figcaption></figure>

This history, <a href="https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/patrol-specials-program-nearing-end-in-san-francisco/30875/">along with competition linked to lucrative overtime gigs for off-duty police</a>, has led some in positions of power to call for the elimination of patrol specials—until recently.&nbsp;

This history, <a href="https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/patrol-specials-program-nearing-end-in-san-francisco/30875/">along with competition linked to lucrative overtime gigs for off-duty police</a>, has led some in positions of power to call for the elimination of patrol specials—until recently.&nbsp;

Peskin said he would be open to a reimagined program, but given the police department’s history of relegating patrol specials to “second-class” law enforcement status, the supervisor said he’s not expecting smooth sailing for an expanded program. 

Peskin said he would be open to a reimagined program, but given the police department’s history of relegating patrol specials to “second-class” law enforcement status, the supervisor said he’s not expecting smooth sailing for an expanded program.

Over the years, the police have tried to end the existence of patrol specials, Byard said.&nbsp;

Over the years, the police have tried to end the existence of patrol specials, Byard said.&nbsp;

“Now you have a lot of citizens who see what patrol specials are,” he said. “The word got out, ‘Here's a program that costs the city next to nothing […] why not get extra police officers basically for free?’”

“Now you have a lot of citizens who see what patrol specials are,” he said. “The word got out, ‘Here's a program that costs the city next to nothing […] why not get extra police officers basically for free?’”

Is reviving a private police agency in San Francisco the solution to the city’s crime woes?

Astrid Kane

In late September, the wealthiest man in the world waded into San Francisco politics. Apparently upset by a measure being mulled by the Board of Supervisors that would restrict the use of weapons by private security guards, Elon Musk took direct aim at its author.&nbsp;

In late September, the wealthiest man in the world waded into San Francisco politics. Apparently upset by a measure being mulled by the Board of Supervisors that would restrict the use of weapons by private security guards, Elon Musk took direct aim at its author.&nbsp;

“Dean Preston should go to prison,” Musk <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1707725140618858935?s=20">wrote on X</a> to his 174 million followers.

“Dean Preston should go to prison,” Musk <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1707725140618858935?s=20">wrote on X</a> to his 174 million followers.

Musk also pledged to contribute $100,000 to unseat Preston—San Francisco’s lone Democratic Socialist and a tenants rights lawyer—in the November 2024 election, doubling Y Combinator founder Garry Tan’s offer of a $50,000 donation to oust Preston.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Musk also pledged to contribute $100,000 to unseat Preston—San Francisco’s lone Democratic Socialist and a tenants rights lawyer—in the November 2024 election, doubling Y Combinator founder Garry Tan’s offer of a $50,000 donation to oust Preston.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Though Musk has yet to pony up those six figures, the episode illustrated just how well-known, or perhaps infamous, Preston has become—not just in San Francisco but far beyond. Indeed, “Dump Dean” has become less of a call to oust a single supervisor and more of a meme—essentially, among the incumbent’s more vociferous online opponents, a synonym for fixing San Francisco itself.

Though Musk has yet to pony up those six figures, the episode illustrated just how well-known, or perhaps infamous, Preston has become—not just in San Francisco but far beyond. Indeed, “Dump Dean” has become less of a call to oust a single supervisor and more of a meme—essentially, among the incumbent’s more vociferous online opponents, a synonym for fixing San Francisco itself.

A picture of Dump Dean Preston’s page on Grow SF website lists 31 reasons why the oppose Supervisor Dean Preston on March 1, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/deanprestonprofile-20.jpg?w=2500" alt="A computer screen displays a website with text &quot;Dump Dean Preston&quot; and a man's photo." class="wp-image-254670"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A picture of the "Dump Dean" page on Grow SF's website lists 31 reasons to oppose Preston.</figcaption></figure>

To supporters, Preston is a principled lawmaker who has dedicated his entire career to keeping vulnerable people in their homes. During the pandemic, he pushed to extend a residential eviction moratorium and repurpose vacant hotels as shelter for unhoused residents. He was the driving force behind the Gaza cease-fire resolution in January and a 2022 ballot measure shifting mayoral races from odd-numbered years to higher turnout presidential years, which progressives hoped would work to their benefit. He recently introduced a no-turn-on-red bill, and he’s been a strong supporter of car-free Hayes Street.&nbsp;

To supporters, Preston is a principled lawmaker who has dedicated his entire career to keeping vulnerable people in their homes. During the pandemic, he pushed to extend a residential eviction moratorium and repurpose vacant hotels as shelter for unhoused residents. He was the driving force behind the Gaza cease-fire resolution in January and a 2022 ballot measure shifting mayoral races from odd-numbered years to higher turnout presidential years, which progressives hoped would work to their benefit. He recently introduced a no-turn-on-red bill, and he’s been a strong supporter of car-free Hayes Street.&nbsp;

To detractors, however, Preston is an ideologue more interested in lobbing rhetorical Molotov cocktails than in the nitty-gritty of constituent services. His interest in halting Muni’s fare increases by definition starves the beleaguered transit agency of necessary funding. His anti-incarceration stance leaves him open to the accusation that he’s actively abetting the fentanyl crisis and indifferent to his district’s top concerns. And his insistence on affordable housing makes him the city’s No. 1 NIMBY.

To detractors, however, Preston is an ideologue more interested in lobbing rhetorical Molotov cocktails than in the nitty-gritty of constituent services. His interest in halting Muni’s fare increases by definition starves the beleaguered transit agency of necessary funding. His anti-incarceration stance leaves him open to the accusation that he’s actively abetting the fentanyl crisis and indifferent to his district’s top concerns. And his insistence on affordable housing makes him the city’s No. 1 NIMBY.

As a wealthy man who lives in San Francisco’s tony Alamo Square, Preston has faced endless criticism of the “champagne socialist” stripe, along with accusations of hypocrisy when he opposes market-rate housing and police overtime. Consequently, he faces a tough reelection battle in November: Some $300,000 has been raised already to defeat him, by far the most well-funded campaign against any incumbent.

As a wealthy man who lives in San Francisco’s tony Alamo Square, Preston has faced endless criticism of the “champagne socialist” stripe, along with accusations of hypocrisy when he opposes market-rate housing and police overtime. Consequently, he faces a tough reelection battle in November: Some $300,000 has been raised already to defeat him, by far the most well-funded campaign against any incumbent.

core/video

<figure class="wp-block-video alignwide"><video autoplay controls loop muted poster="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/120523_gazaresolution_bos-00_09_09_00-still020.jpg" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/20240227_deanprestonprofile_gaza_comments.mp4"></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Preston became emotional when introducing a cease-fire resolution for the Israel-Hamas war at a Board of Supervisors meeting in December.</figcaption></figure>

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