FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 12, 2024

 

San Francisco, CA – The San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association (SFDSA) has filed an amicus curiae brief with the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, shining a spotlight on the City and County of San Francisco’s failure to provide proper staffing and invest in modern, safe jail facilities. Years of neglect have left deputies and inmates in unsafe, outdated conditions, creating a crisis that demands immediate action to protect public safety and uphold state-mandated standards.

A Crisis of Neglect: Staffing and Facilities Ignored

“For far too long, the City has ignored its responsibility to provide adequate staffing and build modern facilities for the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office,” said SFDSA President Ken Lomba. “This neglect jeopardizes the safety of deputies, inmates, and the public we serve. The City must stop dragging its feet and take action to address these dangerous deficiencies.”

The SFDSA’s brief highlights the consequences of the City’s refusal to modernize outdated facilities and meet California’s Title 24 Building Standards, which mandate daily sunlight exposure for inmates. These substandard conditions exacerbate violence, increase deputy stress, and result in higher operational costs, all while violating basic legal requirements.

Key Issues of the Brief

The SFDSA underscores several critical failures by the City:

• Outdated Facilities: Existing jails lack essential features, such as adequate outdoor exercise areas with sunlight exposure, which are crucial for inmate health and safety.
• Increased Violence: Poorly designed, overcrowded facilities lead to higher rates of violence, putting deputies at risk.
• Staffing Shortages: Chronic understaffing forces deputies to work in unsafe conditions, leading to burnout, stress, and reduced morale.
• Missed Opportunities for Modernization: While other cities invest in state-of-the-art facilities to enhance safety and efficiency, San Francisco’s neglect forces deputies to operate in a system that fails everyone.

Acknowledging Excellence in Advocacy

The SFDSA extends its gratitude to attorney Stuart Price of Price Caspino LLP for his excellent work in preparing and filing the amicus brief. “Mr. Price’s dedication to this case and his commitment to ensuring a safer environment for our deputies and inmates is exemplary,” said Lomba. “His advocacy brings much-needed attention to this critical issue.”

A Call for Immediate Reform

The SFDSA’s brief demands that the City provide at least one hour of daily sunlight exposure for inmates at San Francisco County Jail #3, as required by law. It also calls for immediate investment in modern facilities that meet current standards and address the safety needs of both deputies and inmates.

“San Francisco must stop neglecting its legal and moral obligations to ensure safe, modern facilities for the Sheriff’s Office,” said Lomba. “Investing in proper staffing and infrastructure isn’t optional—it’s essential for safety, efficiency, and public trust.”

About the SFDSA

The San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association (SFDSA) represents the deputy sheriffs and senior deputies of the San Francisco Sheriff’s Department. Since 1952, the SFDSA has been committed to advocating for the safety, welfare, and professionalism of its members while ensuring the highest standards of public safety.

For media inquiries, contact:
Ken Lomba
President, San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association
Phone: 415-696-2428