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

Four employees at the San Francisco Department of Police Accountability sent letters to the Police Commission expressing a lack of confidence in director Paul Henderson's leadership due to his handling of budget cuts and internal allegations of harassment. Former policy director Janelle Caywood, who threatened legal action following her abrupt firing, criticized Henderson for targeting experienced staff for layoffs while retaining higher-paid managerial roles. The Police Commission has received public complaints from employees who feel overworked and are seeking support against layoffs. President C. Don Clay acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and plans to investigate the growing number of employee complaints.

Henderson, disappointed by the letters, stated that he strives to represent the city effectively. Some staff defend him, claiming the layoffs were beyond his control and that the accusations stem from a minority of employees. The Department of Police Accountability, which investigates police misconduct, currently employs 11 investigators but faces concerns over staffing adequacy. Employees argue that reliance on overtime masks a critical need for additional investigators to maintain oversight.