State Bar Orders DA Jenkins Into a Diversion Program Over Ethics Violation Allegations

The California State Bar has ordered San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins to enter a diversion program due to an ethics violation concerning the unauthorized sharing of a rap sheet belonging to hit-and-run suspect Troy McAlister. This ruling is particularly ironic because Jenkins has publicly criticized similar diversion programs that her predecessor, Chesa Boudin, utilized. Out of eight complaints filed against her, only one has been substantiated, and it was confirmed that Jenkins shared the rap sheet with a disgruntled former employee. Critics argue that the situation reflects poorly on Jenkins, especially given her previous stance against diversion programs. SF Public Defender Mano Raju expressed the irony, emphasizing that Jenkins often opposes diversion for defendants while now being required to complete one herself.

Jenkins contends that the complaints are politically motivated and insists the State Bar's investigation was thorough. The diversion program is seen as a light consequence, allowing Jenkins to avoid a full disciplinary hearing. This incident raises questions about accountability and ethics within the district attorney's office in San Francisco.