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Families and advocacy groups demand independent investigations after two recent shootings; Board hears calls but takes no immediate action
Summary
Multiple community members and advocacy organizations urged the Board to launch independent investigations and consider a civilian review board after the fatal shootings of Kenneth Harding and Charles Hill; speakers pressed for prosecution where warranted and for the end of a police 'occupation' in Bayview-Hunters Point.
Dozens of community members, union representatives and civil‑rights advocates used the Board's public comment period to demand independent, outside investigations into two recent shootings — of Kenneth Harding and Charles Hill — and to press for prosecutions and reforms to police oversight.
Speakers included representatives of October 22, the American Federation of Teachers Local 2121, the Coalition to Stop Police Brutality and other neighborhood activists. Roger Scott of AFT 2121 told the board the union "supports the demand for an independent investigation into the shootings of Kenneth Harding and Charles Hill" and said that when significant numbers of people believe police used unjustified deadly force, an independent probe is necessary. Daniel Garcia of the October 22 Coalition said, "We're tired of asking now. We're demanding...the San Francisco Board of Supervisors conduct an independent investigation."
Other public speakers asked the Board to explore a charter amendment or ballot measure to create a civilian review board modeled on Oakland's system and urged immediate suspension of tactics they described as a police occupation of Bayview‑Hunters Point. Activists also urged protection of people who come forward as witnesses and asked the Board to press for prosecutions if independent investigations find wrongdoing by officers.
Board members acknowledged the depth of community concern and said staff and supervisors would receive the petitions and demands. No board action or vote was taken at the meeting to initiate an independent investigation; several supervisors invited speakers to meet with staff and to return with formal proposals or drafted legislation. One speaker asked how to get the matter on the next week's agenda; staff directed attendees to follow up with board offices to arrange further meetings.
The volume of public testimony underlines the community's demand for an external, impartial review mechanism and for accountability in police‑involved fatalities. The Board did not adopt legislation, hold a vote, or form an independent commission during this session.
