San Francisco DA Brooke Jenkins' Tenure Sees 5% Rise in Convictions Amidst State Bar Diversion Mandate

San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins is marking three years since her appointment as the city's top prosecutor, reflecting on her initial pledges and future goals for public safety. Appointed by Mayor London Breed on July 8, 2022, following the recall of her predecessor, Chesa Boudin, Jenkins assumed office with a mandate to address rising crime concerns and re-establish accountability in the justice system. NBC Bay Area noted her reflection on promises made on day one.

Upon taking office, Jenkins swiftly implemented policy shifts, revoking lenient plea offers and prioritizing the prosecution of felony narcotics cases, which saw a 72% increase in filings during her first year. Her administration also focused on violent crime and retail theft, reporting a 5% rise in overall convictions from 2022 to 2023. The District Attorney's office established new units, including Major Crimes and Vulnerable Victims, and emphasized support for crime victims.

Despite the reported increase in convictions, Jenkins' tenure has been marked by significant challenges and controversies. She faced criticism for firing 15 attorneys shortly after her appointment and has been cited for prosecutorial misconduct by the California Court of Appeal in 2016 and 2023. More recently, in April 2025, the State Bar of California mandated her participation in a diversion program following multiple ethics complaints, including allegations of improperly accessing and sharing sensitive files.

Public perception of safety in San Francisco remains a complex issue, with many residents still expressing concern despite a reported 13% drop in overall crime in 2023, primarily driven by a decline in property crimes. Violent crime rates have remained relatively stable, though homicides saw a 10% increase from 2022 to 2023. Experts emphasize that crime rates are influenced by multiple factors beyond any single department's actions.

Jenkins continues to face scrutiny over her office's practices, including allegations from public defenders of withholding evidence and criticisms regarding her approach to the fentanyl crisis. Her decision in 2025 to broaden the context for charging minors as adults also drew attention. As she looks ahead, Jenkins maintains her commitment to making San Francisco safer, stating her office is "working hard every day to hold criminals accountable and support victims."