Commission accepts donation of seven AEDs amid public concern about timing

The San Francisco Police Commission voted to accept a donation of seven automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) intended for new patrol vehicles and assignment to the department’s 10 district stations. The item, on the consent calendar, was approved after public comment and a contested exchange among commissioners.

The donation — described in the agenda as seven AEDs valued at $9,998.68 and supplied through materials from Mrs. Linda Antonini — drew several public speakers who voiced support for life‑saving equipment but tied the timing of the gift to the commission’s separate review of conducted‑energy devices (tasers). Michelle, who identified herself with the Ejisteri Foundation, told the commission: “Are we getting the remedy before we get the lethal weapon?” Speakers urged transparency about who is raising funds and whether donations should be accepted while the Commission considers introducing new force options.

Commissioner De Jesus pressed staff for details on how many AEDs are already in patrol cars and who exactly is raising funds; she asked for clarity on program administration, fundraising sources and projected numbers. Acting Chief Chaplin responded that he would attempt to supply numbers and background information to commissioners.

There was a motion on the consent calendar and, after discussion, the Commission approved the acceptance. The secretary recorded the outcome as a 5‑to‑2 vote in favor. Commissioners did not adopt additional conditions at the meeting; some commissioners and speakers asked that the department provide more information and training requirements before placement in the field.

The vote concluded the consent item; the Commission moved on to general public comment and a lengthy discussion of body‑worn cameras and use‑of‑force policy.