SFPD Chief Bill Scott Statement on Adachi Report Criminal Investigation 19-066

Over the last 48 hours, I conducted a top-to-bottom review of San Francisco Police Department’s criminal investigation into the unauthorized release of the Jeff Adachi police report. At the request of San Francisco Mayor London Breed, we are seeking an independent, impartial investigation by a separate investigatory body. In the last 24 hours, I have reached out to outside agencies to take over the criminal investigation.

I am specifically concerned by a lack of due diligence by department investigators in seeking search warrants and appropriately addressing Mr. Carmody’s status as a member of the news media. This has raised important questions about our handling of this case and whether the California shield law was violated. In addition to an outside agency, the Department of Police Accountability will investigate the execution of the search warrant on Mr. Carmody’s home and continue their own investigation into the unauthorized release of the police report. SFPD, under the oversight of the Police Commission, will also review its protocols involving members of the news media.

SFPD’s Statement of Values specifies that “policing strategies must preserve and advance democratic values.” In this area, we must do a better job. Journalists and everyone in our City deserve a police department that will maintain the constitutional rights of all.

I am committed to leading a department that is transparent, accountable and reflects the values of our City. The residents of San Francisco, our Mayor and City leaders, the news media and the hardworking men and women of the police department deserve better. We understand that faith in SFPD has been shaken and we will work hard to restore it.