Written by Dan Whitcomb

(Reuters) – San Francisco’s city leaders have pledged to increase police presence in Asian American communities. This is after data showed that sixty hate crimes against Asians were committed in 2021. That compares with nine in previous years.

San Francisco has been the most affected by hate crimes directed at Asian Americans over the last year. New York City police reported that there were 129 hate crimes in 2021, as opposed to 28 in 2020.

William Scott, San Francisco’s chief police officer, stated at a press conference that he has already directed increased patrols and officers in Chinatown, despite staff shortages, which he blamed for the COVID-19 pandemic.

You are mistaken if you think San Francisco is a safe place to terrorize the Asian community. You will be charged. Scott stated that you would be taken into custody and charged.

Scott and London Breed tried to comfort residents of San Francisco’s Asian-American community in advance of the Chinese Lunar New Year. It begins February 1, and ends on February 1. San Francisco will celebrate the occasion with a parade.

Breed expressed his dismay at “this extraordinary community” and said, “I’m heartbroken, frustrated, embarrassed, angry, about violence that continues impacting many members of our Asian community, but particularly our seniors.”

Scott stated that over 30 hate crimes were linked to one person who was detained last August.

Although the police chief didn’t name the suspect, it appeared that he was referring to Derik Barrreto (36), who was arrested on Aug. 16 for smashing windows at more than two dozen Chinese businesses while he rode his scooter through the city.

Chesa Boudin, San Francisco District Attorney, will face a recall election in June. He is being targeted by activists for his softness on crime.