San Francisco Sun

On Monday, members of the Board of Supervisors Rules Committee rejected Mayor London Breed's nomination of Debra Walker to continue serving as Police Commissioner.

Breed expressed her disappointment, stating, "Proposition E, which San Francisco voters overwhelmingly passed in March, sent a clear message that San Franciscans want our City’s leaders to put more police officers on our streets, to champion new technology that will prevent and stop criminal activity, and advance criminal investigations to restore accountability and faith in our criminal justice system."

She criticized the committee's decision as prioritizing "obstruction and theater over a safer, stronger, more inclusive San Francisco." Breed highlighted last year's record-low crime rate and credited Walker for contributing significantly to this progress by providing necessary tools for police officers.

"Debra has been a key figure behind the momentum to give our police officers the tools they need and to produce better outcomes for our communities," Breed said. She emphasized Walker's role in implementing all 272 reform recommendations from the Department of Justice.

Breed also praised Walker's dedication to community engagement and her advocacy for public safety initiatives. "What I admire most about Debra Walker is that she is a relentless voice who loves San Francisco," she noted.

Community support for Walker was evident. Police Commissioner Larry Yee remarked on her partnership in addressing public safety issues affecting the Chinese community. Lisa Williams from Alice B. Toklas highlighted Walker's advocacy for the LGBTQ community amid rising violence against Black trans women.

Roma Guy, a social justice advocate, supported Walker's reappointment due to her ability to bring listening skills and problem-solving into criminal justice discussions. Joanne Lee from Edge on the Square also endorsed Walker’s continued service.

Breed concluded by urging the Board of Supervisors to support Walker’s reappointment: "This is a pivotal time for public safety in San Francisco. We are seeing progress. We can’t go backwards."