Some S.F. police watchdog workers say theyve lost confidence in leader

Four employees at the San Francisco Department of Police Accountability have expressed a lack of confidence in director Paul Henderson through letters addressed to the Police Commission. They criticized his management of budget cuts, alleging that he targeted an experienced investigator for layoffs while keeping higher-paid managerial staff. Former policy director Janelle Caywood, one of the signatories, threatened to file a lawsuit following her abrupt firing. Police Commission president C. Don Clay acknowledged the growing number of employee complaints and announced plans for an investigation into the matter.

Henderson's leadership has faced scrutiny since he succeeded former director Joyce Hicks, who was pushed out amid employee dissatisfaction. Supporters, including attorney Tinnetta Thompson, labeled the accusations against Henderson as unfair and disingenuous. Employees have raised concerns about being overworked, which they argue jeopardizes their ability to meet legally mandated timelines. The department currently meets staffing requirements but claims reliance on overtime obscures the need for additional investigators.