San francisco sees major crime drop: 601 arrests and 73 firearms seized in 2024

SAN FRANCISCO, California — The San Francisco Police Department’s Citywide Plainclothes team made 601 felony arrests and seized 73 firearms in 2024, contributing to a significant drop in crime, Chief Bill Scott announced Thursday.The Citywide Plainclothes team, composed of officers in street clothes, focuses on challenging crimes such as auto burglaries, drug dealing, retail theft, and violent crime, according to the San Francisco Police Department.

These officers collaborate with investigations bureaus, uniformed patrol officers, analysts, and drone operators. In 2023, the unit made 500 arrests and seized 60 firearms, marking an increase in 2024. The department credits new technologies like Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) and drones for assisting officers in their operations.

The team’s efforts continue into 2025, with a notable incident on January 14, when officers used an ALPR hit to track a stolen Acura in the South of Market neighborhood. The officers deployed a tire deflation device and arrested two occupants on charges including possession of a stolen vehicle, burglary tools, and methamphetamine.

The increase in arrests coincided with a significant drop in crime in San Francisco, with the homicide rate at its lowest since 1960 and property crimes like auto burglaries decreasing by 54%. Overall, crime was the lowest in 20 years.

“Our Citywide Plainclothes officers are working harder than ever and doing a fantastic job making important arrests to keep our city safe,” Chief Scott said. “With new technologies like ALPR and drones, our officers are empowered like never before. I want to thank them for their tremendous work.”