Tag: sf district attorney

How Mayor London Breed Defunded the Sheriff’s Office

San Francisco’s public safety has been in a precarious position due to Mayor London Breed’s approach to handling the city’s law enforcement agencies, particularly the Sheriff’s Office. Despite growing concerns about understaffing, rising violent incidents in jails, and the critical need for better resource allocation, Mayor Breed’s decisions have led to what many see as a strategic defunding of the Sheriff’s Office. This article delves into the details of how this has unfolded.

London Breed Breaking News

Civilianizing Police Positions

One of the key moves by Mayor Breed has been the civilianization of police and deputy sheriff positions. By replacing sworn officers with civilians in various roles and introducing so-called “ambassadors” without police powers, the Mayor has significantly reduced the number of operational deputies and police officers. While the intention is to increase the presence of mental health professionals and address crime as a mental health issue, this shift has left police officers and deputy sheriffs struggling to cope with the escalating demands of their jobs. This reallocation of responsibilities has effectively reduced the number of police and deputies available to handle the core functions of law enforcement, further straining the already overstressed system.

Denying Critical Funding Requests

The Mayor’s budgetary policies have directly impacted the staffing levels within the Sheriff’s Office. In recent years, the number of deputy sheriffs has been declining, leaving the department dangerously understaffed. The latest figures indicate that there are currently only 611 deputies, a number far below what is needed to ensure public safety and manage the city’s jails, courts, and booking facilities effectively.

A clear example of this is Mayor Breed’s denial of the Sheriff’s request for $500,000 specifically allocated for recruiting new deputies. This refusal to fund essential recruiting efforts has further exacerbated the staffing crisis, leaving the department unable to attract and retain the personnel needed to function effectively. Without adequate funding for recruitment, the Sheriff’s Office cannot compete with other law enforcement agencies offering better hiring incentives and support.

Pausing Hiring and Promotions

In June 2020, Mayor Breed took the drastic step of pausing all police and sheriff’s hires and promotions to conduct an audit of law enforcement exams to root out bias. While addressing bias is important, this move has significantly hampered the already strained Sheriff’s Office. The pause put on hold exams for hundreds of potential jobs and promotions, leaving 636 people eligible to become deputy sheriffs without the opportunity to be hired or promoted​ (SF mayor pauses police,…)​. This strategic pause has created a bottleneck in the hiring pipeline, delaying the entry of new deputies into the force and exacerbating the understaffing issue.

Progressive Justice System and Jail Closures

Mayor Breed’s focus on a progressive justice system has also contributed to the current challenges. She has been a strong proponent of closing jails and opposing the construction of new ones, aiming to reduce incarceration rates. In 2015, she led the effort to reject an $80 million grant from the State Public Works Board to build a new jail, favoring alternatives to incarceration such as mental health treatment and substance abuse programs​ (San Francisco superviso…)​.

As a result, San Francisco’s jails are now overcrowded and often on lockdown due to the high number of inmates, many of whom are violent offenders. The facilities were not designed to handle such a high concentration of violent individuals, leading to increased incidents of violence within the jails and making it even more challenging for the understaffed Sheriff’s Office to maintain order and safety. The progressive justice system has also led to several issues:

  1. Lack of Sunlight: Inmates who do not receive adequate sunlight are at risk for vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to weakened bones, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. Additionally, the lack of natural light exposure can contribute to depression and other mental health issues.
  2. Limited Recreation Space: Physical activity is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. The lack of recreation space in overcrowded jails leads to a sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and other health problems. Mentally, the absence of regular exercise can exacerbate stress, anxiety, and depression.
  3. Reduced Rehabilitation Opportunities: The shortage of deputies has resulted in inadequate security for rehabilitation programs, including educational classes, vocational training, and religious meetings. Without sufficient deputies to ensure safety and security during these activities, many rehabilitation programs are curtailed or canceled, depriving inmates of critical opportunities for personal development and reintegration into society.
  4. Crowded and Inadequate Facilities: The remaining jails were not built for maximum security and are ill-equipped to handle the increase in administrative separation inmates and protective custody inmates. This overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure compromise safety and security, both for the inmates and the staff.

Additionally, the overcrowded conditions and lack of deputies have severely hindered the ability to provide necessary supervision during rehabilitation activities such as educational classes, vocational training, and religious meetings. Without adequate security, these programs are often curtailed or canceled, depriving inmates of crucial opportunities for personal development and rehabilitation.

Public Safety Buildings Built Citywide

Despite the critical need for facilities and resources for the Sheriff’s Office, Mayor Breed has prioritized other public safety projects over addressing these needs. Significant investments have been made in building and renovating multiple public safety facilities citywide, including:

  1. A new San Francisco Animal Care and Control headquarters, completed in March 2021 with a budget of $76.4 million​ (San Francisco Animal Ca…)​.
  2. The new Fireboat Station No. 35, completed in February 2022 at a cost of $51 million​ (Fireboat Station No. 35…)​.
  3. The new SFFD Station 49 (Ambulance Deployment Facility), completed in May 2021 with a budget of $50.1 million​ (New SFFD Station 49 (Am…)​.
  4. The Ingleside Police Station Replacement, an ongoing project with a budget of $53 million​ (Ingleside Police Statio…)​.
  5. The 9-1-1 Call Center renovation, an ongoing project with a budget of $9 million ​(9-1-1 Call Center | Pub…)​.
  6. Disaster response facilities, including the renovation of Kezar Pavilion, with a budget of $137 million​ (Disaster Response Facil…)​.

While these projects address various public safety needs, the lack of comparable investments in the Sheriff’s Office highlights a clear disparity in resource allocation. This selective investment strategy suggests a bias and a lack of support for the Sheriff’s Office, further undermining its ability to function effectively.

Lack of Hiring Incentives and Public Support

Mayor Breed’s administration has also failed to implement any hiring incentives to attract new deputy sheriff applicants. Unlike other law enforcement agencies that offer signing bonuses, competitive starting salaries, and comprehensive benefits packages to attract talent, the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office has been left without similar support. This lack of hiring incentives makes it challenging for the Sheriff’s Office to compete in a highly competitive job market.

Despite the pressing need for more deputies, the Mayor’s office has not provided adequate funding for recruiting efforts or offered any substantial incentives for new applicants. The lack of urgency in addressing the hiring crisis is evident, as there have been no public statements or campaigns initiated by the Mayor to attract new recruits to the Sheriff’s Office. This oversight, combined with a misleading presentation of the budget figures—inflated by $13 million from contract negotiations—creates an illusion of increased funding and support that does not translate into tangible improvements for the deputies.

Shift in Policy Due to Public Pressure

Mayor Breed initially supported the “Defund the Police” movement, cutting $120 million from the budgets of both San Francisco’s police and sheriff’s departments in response to demands from Black Lives Matter protesters​ (Behind London Breed’s ‘…)​. However, as crime rates surged and public dissatisfaction grew, she shifted her stance, requesting more funding for the police to address rising crime, including open-air drug dealing and retail theft. Despite this shift, the Sheriff’s Office continued to face significant budgetary constraints and lack of support.

Public Safety Concerns

Public safety concerns have been on the rise since 2021, with a survey indicating that 70% of San Franciscans feel the quality of life has worsened over the past few years due to increased crime and public safety issues​ (San Franciscans concern…)​. Property crimes and violent crimes have seen significant increases, and the general public’s dissatisfaction has grown, highlighting the need for more robust law enforcement support and resources ​(Here’s what San Francis…)​.

Mayor London Breed’s approach to managing the Sheriff’s Office has led to a significant reduction in its effectiveness and resources. By civilianizing positions, neglecting critical staffing needs, pausing essential hiring and promotions, focusing on a progressive justice system, denying essential funding for recruiting, failing to make public statements to attract new applicants, and not implementing hiring incentives, the Mayor has effectively defunded the Sheriff’s Office. The result is an overstressed, understaffed department struggling to meet the demands of public safety in San Francisco.

It is imperative for the city’s leadership to reassess their priorities and provide the necessary support to ensure the safety and security of both the deputies and the public they serve. Without a strategic and balanced approach to resource allocation and support, the challenges facing the Sheriff’s Office will continue to grow, putting the safety and well-being of San Francisco’s residents at risk.

The Illusion of Public Safety: How Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto’s Agenda is Failing San Francisco

In San Francisco, the criminal justice system is under increasing scrutiny as public safety becomes a growing concern. Despite the public assurances from Mayor London Breed and Sheriff Paul Miyamoto, their actions tell a different story. While they claim to prioritize public safety, their agenda of civilianizing law enforcement is undermining the very foundations of security and accountability, putting the community at greater risk.

 


The Reality Behind Electronic Monitoring

One of the most glaring examples of this discrepancy is the city’s electronic monitoring system. At first glance, electronic ankle monitors give the impression of strict supervision for individuals under house arrest. However, the reality is far from this illusion.

  • Overburdened Deputies: Astonishingly, one or two deputy sheriffs are tasked with monitoring around 500 individuals on electronic ankle monitoring. This unmanageable caseload renders the supervision ineffective, allowing many to exploit their freedom and engage in criminal activities without real consequences.
  • False Accountability: The inadequate monitoring system creates a facade of accountability. In reality, those on electronic monitoring face little to no genuine oversight, leading to a system that fails to prevent recidivism or protect public safety.

Unseen and Unaddressed Warrants

The illusion of accountability extends to the handling of outstanding warrants. The Warrants Service Unit, responsible for locating and apprehending individuals with outstanding warrants, is critically understaffed.

  • Insufficient Personnel: With only five deputies in the unit, the resources are grossly inadequate to manage the increasing number of outstanding warrants. This understaffing results in a significant backlog, further eroding the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
  • Delayed Justice: The lack of timely action on outstanding warrants means that many offenders remain at large, undermining the system’s credibility and the public’s trust.

A Growing Crisis: Overcrowded Jails and Understaffed Programs

When this issue was first brought to light, approximately 1,600 individuals were participating in alternatives to incarceration programs. Today, the situation has worsened, with the jail population rising from the 1,100s to 1,270, and 1,803 participants now in Community Programs. This trend highlights the severe understaffing and inadequate infrastructure of San Francisco’s jails.

  • San Bruno Annex: The San Bruno Annex is not at full capacity due to needed upgrades. Even if it were fully functional, the lack of deputized staff means it cannot operate effectively.
  • Shift to Community Programs: Due to the lack of space and staff in jails, the SFSO is increasingly relying on Community Programs. However, this shift is not a solution but a symptom of deeper systemic issues. Without sufficient deputies to supervise these programs, they become ineffective, creating a cycle of insufficient oversight and increased criminal activity.

The Breed-Miyamoto Agenda: Civilianizing Law Enforcement

Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto have consistently promoted a vision of public safety. Yet, their actions contradict their statements. Instead of investing in the recruitment and hiring of deputies, they are pushing for the civilianization of law enforcement. This approach is fundamentally flawed and dangerous for several reasons:

  • Lack of Real Supervision: Civilianizing law enforcement reduces the number of trained deputies available for critical supervision and enforcement roles. This diminishes the system’s ability to monitor and manage offenders effectively.
  • Increased Public Risk: The reliance on civilian programs without adequate oversight emboldens offenders, leading to higher recidivism rates and attracting criminals from outside areas. The lack of genuine consequences for criminal behavior creates a public safety hazard.

London Breed Civilianization of Police

San Francisco: The Worst-Run City in the U.S.

Adding to the city’s woes, a recent report by the SF Examiner highlights that San Francisco is now ranked as the worst-run city among the 149 biggest in the U.S., according to WalletHub’s analysis of operating efficiencies. The ranking, based on a “quality of services” score divided by each city’s per-capita budget, assessed financial stability, health, safety, economy, and infrastructure/pollution. The categories included 36 metrics, such as high school graduation rates, public hospital system quality, and crime rates. This damning report underscores the systemic failures in San Francisco’s management and further illustrates the consequences of inadequate leadership and resource allocation.

The Mirage of Public Safety

The consequences of this flawed approach are severe. The erosion of public trust, escalating crime rates, and the overall inefficacy of the criminal justice system are clear indicators that the current strategy is failing. The public is becoming increasingly aware that the promises of Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto are nothing more than a “fugazzi” – an illusion of safety without substance.

A Call for Real Change

San Francisco’s criminal justice system is at a critical juncture. The current path of civilianizing law enforcement, supported by Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto, is jeopardizing public safety and undermining the integrity of the system. It is imperative to prioritize the recruitment and hiring of deputized staff, ensure adequate resources and funding, and restore effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

Without these changes, the illusion of consequences will continue to erode public trust and compromise the safety of the community. It is time for genuine action that aligns with the promises made to the people of San Francisco, ensuring a criminal justice system that truly protects and serves its citizens.

Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto: Far-Left Policies Masquerading as Moderate Leadership

In San Francisco, the narrative often paints Mayor London Breed and Sheriff Paul Miyamoto as Democrat moderates, advocating for balanced and pragmatic solutions to the city’s challenges. However, a closer examination of their policies reveals a starkly different reality. Their approach, especially concerning public safety and law enforcement, aligns more closely with far-left ideologies, significantly impacting the effectiveness of our criminal justice system.

 

The Reality Behind the Budget

On May 30, 2024, Mayor Breed released her new budget, touting an expansion of public safety. However, the details tell a different story. The budget emphasizes civilianization and alternatives to traditional law enforcement, stating, “Continue Safety Ambassadors and Civilianization to provide non-law enforcement response.” This includes funding for Police Service Aides, citywide Public Safety Community Ambassadors, and retired Police Officer ambassadors. Additionally, it continues to fund the City’s Street Response Teams, which provide non-law enforcement responses to calls for people in behavioral health crises and those experiencing homelessness.

This approach aligns with far-left ideologies that prioritize reducing the role of trained law enforcement in favor of civilian alternatives. While community involvement and mental health support are crucial, the outright replacement of law enforcement officers with civilian roles undermines public safety and fails to address the complex realities faced by deputies and police officers.

The Impact on Public Safety

The ongoing staffing crisis in the Sheriff’s Department has led to unsafe conditions in our jails, increased violence, and overworked deputies. Instead of addressing these urgent needs, Mayor Breed’s budget expands civilian roles that cannot substitute the critical functions performed by trained law enforcement professionals. This far-left stance prioritizes ideological goals over practical solutions, putting both deputies and the public at risk.

Sheriff Miyamoto’s Complicity

Sheriff Paul Miyamoto’s silence on these issues further underscores the alignment with far-left ideologies. By not aggressively advocating for more trained deputies and failing to address the staffing crisis, the Sheriff is complicit in perpetuating policies that weaken our criminal justice system. His lack of response reflects an acceptance of the civilianization strategy, ignoring the pressing needs for robust law enforcement presence and support.

Adding to the problem is Sheriff Miyamoto’s political endorsements. He has politically endorsed Mayor London Breed for her upcoming elections, further aligning himself with policies that undermine public safety. In the March 2024 election, he endorsed judges known for excessively releasing inmates, fueling the revolving door of the criminal justice system. Recently, in a budget meeting, Sheriff Miyamoto stated his goal is to keep people out of jail because it’s harder for his staff when more people are incarcerated. This perspective not only fails to address the root issues but also compromises the safety of our community.

The Broader Implications

Labeling Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto as moderates masks the true nature of their policies. Their actions and budget priorities reveal a commitment to far-left ideologies that compromise public safety and effective law enforcement. San Francisco deserves leaders who recognize the importance of a balanced approach, incorporating community support while maintaining a strong, well-trained law enforcement presence.

It’s time for San Franciscans to recognize the true ideological stance of our city leaders. Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto’s far-left policies are not the moderate solutions they claim to champion. The well-being of our community and the effectiveness of our criminal justice system depend on acknowledging this reality and demanding real, balanced solutions that prioritize public safety and support for our law enforcement officers.

By holding our leaders accountable and challenging the far-left ideologies that drive their policies, we can work towards a safer, more effective San Francisco that truly serves the needs of all its residents.

The Unaddressed Crisis in San Francisco’s Jails: Accountability Starts at the Top

In recent months, the deteriorating conditions in San Francisco’s jails have reached a critical point, prompting widespread concern and media attention. The escalating violence, severe staffing shortages, and the influx of mentally ill and drug-addicted inmates have created an environment of chaos and danger. Despite these alarming developments, Mayor London Breed and Sheriff Paul Miyamoto have failed to address these issues with the urgency and solutions required.

London Breed and Paul Miyamoto

The Gravity of the Situation

The situation in San Francisco’s jails is dire. Lockdowns are increasingly frequent as deputies struggle to manage confrontations with inmates. The jails are overcrowded with individuals suffering from mental illness and substance abuse disorders, creating a volatile atmosphere. Deputies are being attacked and hospitalized, highlighting the risks they face daily. This environment is not only unsafe for staff but also undermines any attempts at rehabilitation for inmates.

Deputies Attacked 2024

Leadership Failures

Mayor London Breed and Sheriff Paul Miyamoto bear significant responsibility for this crisis. Their lack of decisive action and failure to implement effective solutions have allowed these conditions to worsen.

  1. Inadequate Staffing: The staffing crisis in the Sheriff’s Department is well-documented. Despite being aware of the workforce shortage, there has been no effective plan to recruit and retain deputies. Qualified candidates are being lost to other jurisdictions due to slow hiring processes and inadequate incentives. This failure to staff up has left existing deputies overworked and unable to maintain order and safety.
  2. Lack of Comprehensive Planning: The increase in arrests, particularly of drug users and individuals with mental health issues, was foreseeable. Yet, there was no comprehensive plan to manage the resultant surge in the jail population. The lack of foresight and preparation has resulted in inmates being housed in inadequate facilities with insufficient support and programming.
  3. Neglect of Inmate Rehabilitation: Programs that could help rehabilitate inmates and reduce recidivism, such as education and mental health services, are suffering due to staff shortages. The reduced number of deputies means fewer classrooms and fewer opportunities for inmates to engage in constructive activities. This neglect hampers efforts to rehabilitate inmates and prepare them for reintegration into society.

The Call for Accountability

It is clear that Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto have not prioritized the safety and well-being of San Francisco’s inmates and deputies. Their inaction and lack of strategic planning have contributed to the current crisis. The chaotic conditions in the jails are a direct result of leadership failures at the highest levels.

San Franciscans must demand accountability. The well-being of inmates and deputies should be a top priority, not an afterthought. Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto need to:

  • Implement an Immediate Staffing Plan: Expedite the hiring process for deputy sheriffs and provide competitive incentives to attract and retain qualified staff.
  • Develop Comprehensive Care Plans: Establish robust mental health and substance abuse programs to address the needs of the inmate population.
  • Ensure Proper Facilities and Resources: Invest in adequate facilities and resources to support inmate rehabilitation and safety.

The current state of San Francisco’s jails is unacceptable. It reflects a broader neglect of the criminal justice system and the people within it. For the safety of our community and the integrity of our justice system, it is imperative that Mayor Breed and Sheriff Miyamoto take immediate and decisive action to resolve these issues. San Francisco deserves better, and it starts with holding our leaders accountable.

San Francisco’s Betrayal: City Offers $53 Incentive to Keep Deputy Sheriffs

In a shocking turn of events, the City and County of San Francisco has revealed its true colors in the latest contract negotiations with Deputy Sheriffs. Despite years of dedicated service and sacrifice, Deputy Sheriffs are being offered a meager 1% longevity incentive if they continue to work past 20 years.

This offer is not just insulting; it’s a blatant disregard for the safety and security of San Francisco’s residents. While Deputy Sheriffs are offered a mere $53 per paycheck to delay their well-deserved retirement, the City has shown a stark contrast in its treatment of other departments.

In 2023, Dispatchers were given a 5% longevity incentive, totaling over $1.5 million distributed to eligible dispatchers, to retain them from retiring. The police department fared even better, with an additional 13% in longevity incentives, totaling a staggering $65.85 million distributed to eligible officers.

With 160 Deputy Sheriffs eligible to retire this year after dedicating at least 20 years of their lives to serving and protecting the City, the City’s offer is not just a slap in the face; it’s a betrayal of trust. It sends a clear message that the City does not value the contributions and sacrifices of Deputy Sheriffs.

Moreover, the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office (SFSO) is facing a severe staffing shortage, currently short-staffed by -178 deputy sheriffs. This shortage has led to overworking of Deputy Sheriffs with forced overtime, putting additional strain on an already taxed workforce.

Adding to the problem is San Francisco’s notoriously long and slow hiring process. What will San Francisco do when $53 dollars a paycheck does not retain Deputy Sheriffs from retiring? The consequences could be catastrophic. The courts could come to a grinding halt, jails could become out of control, inmates and employees would be at risk, and there would be fewer deputies on the streets for public safety. The entire system could collapse under the weight of these challenges.

It’s time for the City to wake up and recognize the dedication and commitment of Deputy Sheriffs. They deserve a fair and respectful longevity incentive that reflects their years of service and ensures the continued safety of San Francisco. Anything less is a disgraceful betrayal of those who put their lives on the line every day to keep our city safe.

 

Incarceration-Based Rehabilitation: Addressing San Francisco’s Illegal Drug Use Problem

In recent years, San Francisco has faced a growing challenge with illegal drug use, particularly with highly addictive and deadly substances like “tranq” Xylazine and Fentanyl. These drugs have contributed to an alarming number of drug overdose deaths, highlighting the urgent need for effective interventions to address this public health crisis. As the city seeks solutions, one approach gaining attention is the concept of Incarceration-Based Rehabilitation. This method involves providing rehabilitation programs within the criminal justice system, utilizing the resources of the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office (SFSO) to offer a controlled environment for individuals with substance use disorders to receive treatment and support.

 

Tranq Zombie Drug

 

The key to this approach lies in recognizing the intertwined nature of substance abuse and criminal behavior. Many individuals who engage in illegal drug use find themselves caught in a cycle of addiction and criminal activity, often leading to incarceration. Traditional punitive measures, such as imprisonment without addressing the underlying issues, have proven ineffective in breaking this cycle. Incarceration-Based Rehabilitation seeks to address both the criminal behavior and the root cause of substance abuse through a comprehensive program.

The SFSO plays a central role in this approach by leveraging its resources and expertise to create an environment conducive to rehabilitation. Deputy Sheriffs, who are already responsible for maintaining order and security within jail facilities, can be trained to provide support and guidance to individuals with substance use disorders. By working closely with trained professionals, participants in the program can access a range of services tailored to their needs, including counseling, medical treatment, and vocational training.

One of the key advantages of Incarceration-Based Rehabilitation is its ability to provide a structured and supervised environment for individuals to address their substance abuse issues. Unlike traditional treatment programs that rely on voluntary participation, this approach offers a more controlled setting where participants are encouraged to engage in treatment and are held accountable for their progress. By integrating rehabilitation into the criminal justice system, the program can also ensure that individuals receive the support they need while serving their sentences, increasing the likelihood of successful reintegration into society upon release.

Moreover, Incarceration-Based Rehabilitation can be a cost-effective solution for San Francisco. By addressing substance abuse issues within the criminal justice system, the program has the potential to reduce recidivism rates, leading to long-term savings associated with lower incarceration and criminal justice costs. Additionally, by breaking the cycle of addiction and criminal behavior, the program can contribute to a safer and healthier community, benefiting the city as a whole.

Importantly, this system is designed not only to address the substance abuse issues but also to attend to the overall well-being of the individuals in the program. Participants will have access to healthcare, including medical and mental health services, to address any underlying health conditions or mental health needs. They will also receive clean clothing, access to bathing facilities, and a clean environment, promoting hygiene and overall health. Deputy Sheriffs will ensure their safety, creating a secure environment conducive to recovery.

Given the grave risks associated with drugs like “tranq” Xylazine and Fentanyl, providing a comprehensive program like Incarceration-Based Rehabilitation is crucial for keeping individuals alive and getting them on the path to recovery. By offering a holistic approach that addresses both the substance abuse issues and the broader needs of the individuals, this system has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of those struggling with addiction in San Francisco. Will San Francisco value human life and do this to stop the cycle of addiction and overdose deaths? 

URGENT – Disturbing Default on Payment by San Francisco: A Christmas Crisis for Deputy Sheriffs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

URGENT – Disturbing Default on Payment by the City and County of San Francisco: A Christmas Crisis for Deputy Sheriffs

San Francisco Grinch

 

San Francisco, December 9, 2023 – In a dire development, the City and County of San Francisco (CCSF) grapples with severe financial turbulence, defaulting on an outstanding debt of $74,376.73 owed to 70 Deputy Sheriffs. This disconcerting situation is compounded by Moody’s recent revision of its rating outlook to negative from stable, prompting an urgent response from concerned parties.

This default, stemming from contract violations related to the non-payment of Watch Commanders, has not only breached trust but also jeopardized public safety. Recent polling indicates that public safety is the number one priority for San Francisco voters, emphasizing the critical role law enforcement officers play in maintaining community well-being.

Since May 2023, an additional $94,675.00 owed to deputies for increased workload due to understaffing at the Sheriff’s Office remains unpaid. This alarming default not only raises financial concerns but also questions how San Francisco intends to attract and retain Deputy Sheriffs while maintaining high morale.  San Francisco owes a total of $169,051.73 to Deputy Sheriffs and has not paid it.

As the holiday season approaches, San Francisco risks becoming the Grinch that stole Christmas from its very own deputy sheriffs by withholding the payment owed to them. This act of financial neglect not only casts a shadow over the festive season but also raises ethical questions about the city’s commitment to the well-being of its law enforcement officers.

Public safety, a paramount concern for San Francisco voters, is at risk due to the city’s failure to honor financial commitments to its law enforcement officers. This breach of trust not only undermines the dedication of these officers but also poses a threat to the overall well-being of the community.

Efforts to address these issues with relevant authorities have proven futile, necessitating the escalation of this matter to Moody’s Investor Services. The recent revision in Moody’s rating outlook to negative underscores the severity of the financial challenges faced by CCSF. The City’s inability to meet its financial commitments raises concerns not only about its overall creditworthiness but also about its ability to prioritize public safety.

In a letter addressed to Moody’s Investor Services, the undersigned parties express profound disappointment and urgency, urging an in-depth examination of CCSF’s financial standing. The gravity of the defaults, coupled with the negative revision in rating outlook, demands a comprehensive evaluation of the municipality’s creditworthiness.

The undersigned parties remain resolute in navigating these tumultuous waters, seeking transparency, accountability, and immediate corrective action from the City and County of San Francisco to safeguard public safety and uphold the morale of its dedicated law enforcement officers during this holiday season.

A letter demanding urgent payment for the city’s breach of payment was sent to Mayor London Breed and all members of the Board of Supervisors by the SFDSA.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Ken Lomba
SFDSA President
415-696-2428

 

San Francisco’s Criminal Justice System: A Balancing Act with Limited Resources and the Mayor’s Funding Failure

San Francisco’s criminal justice system is grappling with a multifaceted crisis, characterized by a significant imbalance in resource allocation, challenges in monitoring pretrial diversion and electronic monitoring, and the persistent issue of outstanding warrants. A critical element that exacerbates this problem is the Mayor’s apparent failure to adequately fund the Sheriff’s Office, which is tasked with managing these critical aspects of the criminal justice system. This article delves deeper into these issues, highlighting the impacts of inadequate funding on the functioning of the system.

A Strain on Sheriff’s Office Resources

San Francisco’s Sheriff’s Office plays a pivotal role in overseeing pretrial diversion programs, electronic monitoring, and the apprehension of individuals with outstanding warrants. However, the Sheriff’s Office has been grappling with resource shortages that severely hamper its effectiveness.

Electronic Monitoring Oversight

Perhaps one of the most glaring issues is the overwhelming caseload faced by a mere one to two deputy sheriffs per shift responsible for monitoring 500 individuals on electronic ankle monitoring. This stark imbalance between the number of offenders and the personnel assigned to oversee them has several consequences:

  1. Inadequate supervision: The limited number of personnel makes it exceedingly difficult to ensure effective supervision and compliance with the terms of electronic monitoring. This raises concerns about the potential for offenders to exploit these conditions or reoffend without proper oversight.
  2. Rehabilitation and reintegration: The objective of electronic monitoring programs, which is to support rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society, becomes questionable when the sheer caseload makes individualized attention and support nearly impossible.

The Overburdened Warrants Service Unit

The Warrants Service Unit, tasked with actively seeking out and apprehending individuals with outstanding warrants, operates with just five deputies. The implications of this understaffing are far-reaching:

  1. Limited apprehension capacity: With a minimal workforce, the unit struggles to locate and arrest individuals with outstanding warrants in a timely manner. This undermines the credibility and effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
  2. Accumulating warrants: The challenges faced by the Warrants Service Unit contribute to the mounting number of outstanding warrants, leaving many individuals unaccounted for and the public at risk.

Mayor’s Failure to Fund

2023 San Francisco budget

It is imperative to address the core issue: the Mayor’s apparent failure to allocate adequate funding to the Sheriff’s Office. This funding deficiency exacerbates the problems within the criminal justice system, resulting in an imbalanced workload for deputies, an ever-increasing number of outstanding warrants, and the erosion of public trust.

The implications of this funding shortfall are clear:

  1. Reduced public safety: Inadequate funding of the Sheriff’s Office directly impacts the safety of San Francisco’s residents. Insufficient resources hinder the effective supervision and apprehension of offenders.
  2. Strain on law enforcement: Deputies are faced with insurmountable caseloads, making it nearly impossible for them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. This, in turn, affects the quality of rehabilitation programs and the timely apprehension of individuals with outstanding warrants.

San Francisco’s criminal justice system grapples with severe challenges, primarily due to the lack of funding for the Sheriff’s Office. The Mayor’s failure to address this issue has far-reaching consequences, leading to imbalanced workloads, a growing number of outstanding warrants, and a loss of public trust. Addressing this problem requires a fundamental reevaluation of resource allocation and a commitment to bolstering the Sheriff’s Office’s capabilities. It is crucial to bridge this funding gap to ensure that the criminal justice system can meet its core objectives while safeguarding the interests of the community.

San Francisco Sheriff’s Office Takes Bold Action as Mayor Breed’s Strategies Fall Short in Drug Crisis

In a stunning turn of events, the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office has emerged as the driving force in the fight against the escalating drug crisis, as Mayor London Breed’s strategies continue to fall short. With the city grappling with drug-related issues, Sheriff Paul Miyamoto has taken decisive action, unveiling a courageous plan to deploy 130 additional deputies to the troubled Tenderloin and South of Market (SoMa) neighborhoods.

SF Sheriff Tenderloin Initiative
SF Sheriff Tenderloin Initiative

While Mayor Breed’s approach has faced criticism for its ineffectiveness, Sheriff Miyamoto has stepped up to lead the charge in tackling the deep-rooted drug problem. With resolute determination, the Sheriff’s Office has presented a comprehensive strategy to address drug dealers and individuals openly using drugs in public. The deployment of additional deputies, starting this month, signifies a seismic shift in the battle against crime and substance abuse.

Sheriff Miyamoto, flanked by concerned citizens and law enforcement officials, announced this groundbreaking initiative outside City Hall. With unwavering resolve, he highlighted the urgent need for effective action in combating the city’s drug crisis. The Sheriff’s Office, guided by a steadfast commitment to public safety, is now taking the reins in the quest to find real solutions.

While the Sheriff’s Office courageously assumes a leading role, it is no secret that Mayor Breed’s strategies have fallen short of expectations. The current approach has been marred by limited success and persistent challenges. Public health experts have long decried the idea of relying on incarceration and criminalization as effective means to address substance abuse disorders.


However, the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office’s proactive stance offers hope for a different path forward. By increasing law enforcement presence and targeting drug-related offenses, they aim to restore order and offer a helping hand to those struggling with addiction. The Sheriff’s Office’s unwavering dedication to the community’s well-being is a testament to their commitment to creating lasting change.

Nevertheless, significant hurdles remain in this uphill battle. Both the San Francisco Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office confront staffing shortages that hinder their ability to effectively address the city’s safety concerns. Police Chief Bill Scott emphasized the importance of receiving adequate funding and support from elected officials to overcome these challenges. The commitment of city leaders to address staffing issues will be crucial in achieving tangible progress.

As the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office takes bold strides in confronting the drug crisis, it is evident that their approach stands in stark contrast to Mayor Breed’s faltering strategies. With their specialized training and unwavering dedication, the Sheriff’s Office deputies will fearlessly patrol the streets, tackling criminal elements head-on and extending a lifeline to those lost in the grips of addiction.

While the Sheriff’s Office shoulders the burden of this monumental task, it is vital for the community to rally behind them. Together, we can bring about meaningful change, ensuring a safer and healthier future for San Francisco. Let us unite in support of the determined men and women of the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office as they lead the charge to reshape our city’s destiny in the face of a daunting drug crisis.

San Francisco’s Soft-on-Crime Disaster: Operant Conditioning Fuels a Breeding Ground for Criminals

San Francisco Soft on Crime

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The abysmal state of San Francisco’s criminal justice system has reached a boiling point, as its leniency towards offenders who violate the conditions of their electronic monitoring and the San Francisco Pretrial Diversion Project is exposed. This shocking revelation exposes a broken system driven by the misguided principles of operant conditioning, inadvertently nurturing a breeding ground for criminals. Today, we uncover the harrowing consequences of operant conditioning and demand an immediate and radical overhaul of the city’s failing approach.

Operant Conditioning: Electronic Monitoring and Violations

San Francisco’s criminal justice system has become a haven for criminal activity due to its nonsensical handling of inmates on home detention by electronic monitoring. Instead of facing the full weight of their actions, violators are shamefully granted multiple chances and reinstated on electronic monitoring. This revolving door of leniency perpetuates a dangerous cycle of wrong behavior, effectively rewarding offenders for their transgressions. The result? A community plagued by escalating crime rates and a complete erosion of accountability and deterrence.

Operant Conditioning: San Francisco Pretrial Diversion Project

The San Francisco Pretrial Diversion Project has devolved into an utter farce, fueled by operant conditioning gone awry. Offenders placed on project own recognizance who repeatedly violate the terms are granted chance after chance, creating an environment where criminal behavior thrives. By indulging in this unfathomable leniency, the system inadvertently breeds a culture of impunity, where offenders learn that there are no real consequences for their actions. This betrayal of justice undermines the very fabric of our society and endangers the safety of law-abiding citizens.

The Reinforcement of Criminal Behavior

San Francisco’s woefully lenient criminal justice system, driven by the dangerous principles of operant conditioning, is single-handedly responsible for the surge in criminal activity. By allowing offenders to evade incarceration and doling out feeble consequences for their violations, the system effectively nurtures a generation of criminals. It sends a chilling message that criminal behavior goes unpunished, perpetuating a cycle of lawlessness and emboldening wrongdoers. The consequences are dire: innocent lives shattered, neighborhoods gripped by fear, and a city held hostage by its own failed policies.

The Urgent Need for Drastic Change

The time for half-hearted measures and empty promises is over. San Francisco’s criminal justice system demands a seismic shift towards accountability and decisive action. It is imperative that city officials, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders come together with unwavering determination to enact sweeping reforms. This includes implementing stringent consequences that strike fear into the hearts of criminals, dismantling the perverse incentives created by operant conditioning, and restoring the bedrock principles of justice and public safety.

Rebuilding San Francisco’s Future

The catastrophic consequences of San Francisco’s soft-on-crime disaster demand an immediate response. It is time to cast aside failed ideologies and embrace a bold, new vision for the city’s criminal justice system. By rejecting the flawed principles of operant conditioning and embracing a tough stance on crime, San Francisco can reclaim its reputation as a safe and thriving community. It is a pivotal moment, requiring courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to restore law and order.

Media Contact:

Ken Lomba
President
San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association
415-696-2428