Sheriff Paul Miyamoto
This last month of civil unrest may prove to be a turning point in our history. As both a person of color and a member of law enforcement, I experienced a mixture of emotions.
I felt sickened by George Floyd’s tragic death. I also felt hope when I saw people peacefully protesting in San Francisco and across our country, tearing down barriers to long-overdue changes in law enforcement and exposing cultural racism.
As a 24-year member of this department and now the elected Sheriff, I am humbled by this moment in history and embrace the chance to move quickly, standing up to social injustice and racial inequality.
This is just the beginning of a conversation with the community and with my staff that I know will make our department more transparent, accountable, and equitable.
I look forward to leading the way. My announced changes include:
Amending SFSO’s new use of force policy to reaffirm the department’s 30-year prohibition on the use of carotid restraint or choke hold.
Implementing early warning technology to identify deputized staff who may be at risk for future adverse behavior.
Updating Deputy Sheriff de-escalation training to incorporate a cultural competence framework.
Working with the city’s Department of Human Resources, Human Rights Commission, and members of the community to revise and continue implicit bias and diversity and workplace inclusion training for every department member.
Expanding our agreement with the Department of Police Accountability, an independent investigative body, to investigate a broader range of cases.
Continued participation in the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) and the city’s Human Rights Commission (HRC) to support and advance equity in hiring and promotions.
Forming and convening a Sheriff’s Community Advisory Committee in consultation with GARE, HRC, local leaders, and community groups.