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

Four employees from the San Francisco Department of Police Accountability have voiced a lack of confidence in director Paul Henderson, criticizing his management amid budget cuts and allegations of harassment. Their letters, sent to the Police Commission, highlight concerns over the treatment of staff and the targeting of experienced employees for layoffs. Janelle Caywood, a former policy director, threatened legal action following her abrupt firing, adding to the tensions within the department. Police Commission president C. Don Clay acknowledged the growing number of complaints and plans to investigate further.

Henderson expressed disappointment and defended his actions, stating the challenges of the role. Supporters argue that the layoffs were not his doing, pointing to a hostile work environment fostered by middle management. The department, responsible for oversight of police misconduct, currently operates with a staffing level compliant with legal requirements but faces claims of overwork and mismanagement. Employees fear that further cuts could jeopardize their ability to meet mandated timelines for investigations.