It is almost that time when 2016 will be behind us and 2017 is full of potential and success. As 2016 comes to a close, I need to express my deep appreciation to the officers of Taraval Station who give their all on a daily basis. This year, the officers have shown me through their actions that they are committed to the community they serve as well as to one another. While 2016 presented challenges for law enforcement, the members of Taraval persevered and did so with pride and integrity. As their Commanding Officer, I am incredibly proud to serve with them and look forward to working together in 2017.
In 2016, much of the conversation with residents and business owners involved an immense concern over property crime and quality of life issues that are impacting our neighborhoods. Through the hard work of our officers, the investigators who have been diligent and the partnerships with the community, I am proud to say that we have seen a decrease in burglaries as well as auto burglaries this year.
Please be aware that the month of December traditionally sees an increase in property crimes. I ask that all of you be good neighbors to one another. Help prevent package theft by making arrangements with your neighbors to take in packages instead of leaving them out in the open or in doorways. The holiday season is always hectic, but please help us in the prevention of auto break ins by not leaving anything visible in your car. Even if you think the item has no value to others, you may still find yourself victimized. We also recommend that you do not leave your garage door openers or your registration papers with your address on it in your vehicle. The original copy of your vehicle registration should be kept safe in your home, while a copy can remain in your vehicle with your address blacked out.
With school out for winter break and many rushing around to check off their holiday list, I ask that you take a moment to slow down as you are traveling around the city. Please take an active role in public safety and obey the laws of the road whether you are driving a vehicle, riding a bicycle or are a pedestrian. Also, if you are driving along side or behind an LRV, remember that you must stop and not pass the LRV while it is loading or unloading passengers. We have growing concerns over pedestrians who are being struck by vehicles along the Taraval and Judah corridor.
Officer Dan Rosiak, Officer Shawn Imhoff and Officer Ricky Guerrero have consistently worked with residents and business owners to address the homeless issues throughout the district. It’s important to acknowledge and remember that those who are homeless require service and support from many city agencies. A special thanks to these officers, SFHOT, DPH, DPW, Supervisor Katy Tang and Supervisor Norman Yee in this matter. Without our partnerships, we would we not be successful in addressing these concerns.
Many of you have also reached out asking about Officer Kevin Downs and his recovery. Officer Downs is making tremendous strides in his recovery. He and his wife were able to join his fellow officers at our annual Taraval Christmas party. Officer Downs acts as inspiration for so many of us as he has faced an officer’s deepest fear and has done so with courage and bravery. We look forward to seeing Officer Downs back with us in 2017!
Finally, a thank you also to the Taraval Community Advisory Board, I appreciate your commitment to the community, our officers and I am excited for the potential opportunities that 2017 will present for us.
To all of you, please have a safe holiday season and on behalf of myself and the officers of Taraval Station, Have a Happy New Year!