Latest News in San Francisco, CA

SF Public Defenders Office Says It Will Stop Taking New Cases, Amidst Budget Cuts and Fentanyl Case Overload

The San Francisco Public Defender’s Office announced it will stop accepting new cases due to severe budget cuts and a surge in arrests linked to a crackdown on fentanyl. Public Defender Mano Raju reported a 40% increase in felony filings compared to 2020, causing significant strain on their resources. Mayor Daniel Lurie’s budget reductions have exacerbated the situation, leaving defendants without adequate legal representation.

Update Limited BART Service Returns After Rush Hour Meltdown Due to Computer Issue

BART suspended service at all 50 stations early Friday due to a malfunction in its computerized train control system. Commuters faced heavy traffic as they sought alternative transportation, with service resuming gradually after about five hours.

The Chapel Valencia LIVE!

The Chapel in San Francisco will host "Valencia LIVE!" on May 9, 2025, featuring local artists and cultural performances. The event, held at 777 Valencia St, aims to celebrate the arts and engage the community.

Man dies trying to save dog from SF Ocean Beach surf, fire department says

A man died while attempting to rescue his dog from the surf at Ocean Beach in San Francisco on Thursday. Bystanders reported him entering the water around 2:08 p.m., where he later collapsed; CPR efforts failed, and he died at the hospital. The dog survived and exited the water on its own.

Friday Morning Constitutional Ninth Circuit Denies Elizabeth Holmes's Appeal, Again

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denied Elizabeth Holmes's request for a further rehearing of her fraud conviction related to the Theranos scandal. Meanwhile, BART service resumed after a systemwide shutdown caused delays. Investor concerns over AI searches negatively impacted Alphabet's stock, which is down 6% this week.

Mannys Finding Strength Thriving at Work Through Burnout and Health Challenges

The event "Finding Strength: Thriving at Work Through Burnout and Health Challenges" will take place on May 8, 2025, in San Francisco. It aims to address issues of burnout and health challenges in the workplace, featuring speakers Hillary Benham-Baker and Julia Stephanides. This gathering is significant for professionals seeking strategies for maintaining wellness in demanding work environments.

Weve got kids on this block Neighbors protest for drug-free 16th and Mission

Residents and local officials protested on Thursday at 16th Street and Julian Avenue, demanding solutions to rampant drug use and dealing in their neighborhood. Despite increased police presence since March, community members expressed frustration over the ongoing safety concerns, particularly for children. The rally aimed to call for immediate policy changes to address the issue.

Mission residents face a question More affordable housing or sunlight for kids?

Mission District residents face a decision regarding a proposed affordable housing project, weighing the elimination of 10 units against potential loss of sunlight for children at Marshall Elementary School. A community vote will determine the outcome over three meetings, with concerns raised about the impact on the school's playground.

New Report Shows Which Companies are Hiring the Most SF Cops, Sometimes Taking Them Off the Regular Beat

San Francisco businesses can hire uniformed SFPD officers for private security at overtime rates amid staffing shortages. A recent audit revealed that officers have been working private gigs on days they called in sick, raising concerns about crime in underserved neighborhoods. Walgreens, the SF Giants, and Lululemon are among the top employers of these officers.

As S.F. pushes drug services, DOGE cuts harm reduction funding

Vanguard Lab, a San Francisco harm-reduction center, closed after losing a $250,000 federal grant due to cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency. The loss of funding also affected other organizations, including the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and Compass Family Services, raising concerns about the impact on vulnerable communities. Local advocates emphasize the need for continued support in addressing substance use and homelessness.