SFPD reports 30% drop in Part 1 crimes, credits real‑time center and technology

Chief Scott told the San Francisco Police Commission on April 9 that total Part 1 crimes are down about 30% year‑to‑date — roughly 4,000 fewer incidents than the same time last year — and he credited technology and focused investigative teams for the change.

"Our total Part 1 crimes are down 30%. That's a difference of, almost almost exactly 4,000 fewer crimes than this time last year," Chief Scott said. He said violent crime was down about 16% (approximately 202 fewer incidents) and property crime down about 32% (about 2,800 fewer incidents).

Scott highlighted the Real Time Investigation Center (described during the meeting as 'Arctic'), which the department stood up in spring 2024. He said Arctic and partner units have contributed to more than 500 arrests since it launched; he gave technology breakdowns that included 207 arrests aided by the ALPR/Flock network, 43 arrests using UAS/drones, 166 stolen‑vehicle arrests and 80 robbery arrests.

The chief noted the department's victim‑services work during National Crime Victims' Rights Week and said recent investigative work improved the homicide clearance rate. He cautioned that the year is early and those trends are not a declaration of victory but said the department’s clearance rate had increased after a recent arrest.

Commissioners commended outreach and the crime‑reduction results. Questions from commissioners touched on motor vehicle theft declines and the department’s community events; there were no public comments on the chief’s report.

Next steps: Commissioners asked the chief to continue reporting trend data and to provide follow‑up numbers on pilot technologies when available.