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Commander reports active investigation into killing of transgender woman; hate‑crime reports discussed
Summary
Commander Jim Dudley told the commission the department recorded 42 hate crimes last year and eight so far this year and described an active homicide investigation of 24‑year‑old transgender victim Mariah Qualls, with 24 interviews, five search warrants and outstanding DNA requests.
SAN FRANCISCO — During a Police Commission community meeting Commander Jim Dudley provided a focused update on hate‑crime trends and an active homicide investigation involving a transgender victim.
Dudley said the department logged 42 hate‑crime reports for the prior 12‑month period and "so far this year" has eight reported incidents. He identified an active homicide investigation involving a 24‑year‑old transgender woman, naming the victim as Mariah Qualls and describing investigative steps taken to date.
"He's done exhaustive research, canvassing... 24 interviews total. DNA requests are outstanding. He's done five search warrants in relation to this case," Dudley said, referring to Inspector Dan Cunningham's work on the file.
Dudley cautioned that the case remains under active investigation: "I have to temper my response in that it is an ongoing investigation. There are suspects and forensic evidence under scrutiny now." He provided an investigations phone number (553‑1484) and asked anyone with information to contact the homicide inspector, Kenny Ham.
Commissioners asked for trend context; Dudley said he could provide a breakdown of felony versus misdemeanor classifications but did not have a multi‑year trend chart on hand at the meeting. The commission did not take formal action related to the investigation; Dudley emphasized the active, evidence‑driven status of the case.
