Controller's Office audits San Francisco Police Department's evidence handling and overtime practices

In a recent government meeting held in San Francisco County, officials gathered to discuss critical audits concerning the police department's handling of evidence and overtime practices. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as the comptroller's office presented findings that could significantly impact the department's operations and public trust.

The meeting opened with a detailed report on an inventory audit of monetary evidence held by the police department's property control unit. The audit revealed that while the department accounted for over 7,300 evidence envelopes, significant procedural lapses were identified. More than a third of these envelopes were improperly sealed or lacked the required signatures from two officers, raising concerns about the integrity of evidence handling. Additionally, the outdated property evidence tracking system was flagged for its inability to accurately reflect the current value of monetary evidence, complicating the department's financial oversight.

As discussions progressed, the police department acknowledged the need for immediate changes. They implemented new protocols requiring stricter adherence to evidence packaging and handling procedures. However, the department's transition to a new records management system, known as New World, has been slow, leaving many of these issues unresolved. The urgency of these changes was underscored by an upcoming audit from the Peace Officer Standards and Training, which is expected to provide further recommendations.

The meeting also addressed overtime practices within the department. An audit found that officers frequently exceeded the maximum allowable work hours, raising safety concerns for both officers and the public. The comptroller's office highlighted the need for better documentation and adherence to policies regarding overtime pay, which could lead to potential financial discrepancies.

As the meeting drew to a close, officials expressed a commitment to addressing these findings. The police department's leadership emphasized their dedication to improving practices and ensuring accountability. However, the path forward remains uncertain, with many recommendations still pending implementation.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a critical juncture for the San Francisco police department, as it grapples with the dual challenges of maintaining public trust and ensuring operational integrity. The outcomes of these audits and the subsequent actions taken will be closely watched by both city officials and the community at large.