January 1, San Francisco Library Turns Drug Hotspot Amid Crackdown: Dealers, Users, and Librarians Speak Out

San Francisco’s Main Public Library has emerged as a hotspot for drug dealers and users, according to local reports. Homeless man Ted Disbennett, 36, revealed that the library is the latest gathering spot for drug transactions due to a crackdown that began in May, forcing people like himself to relocate.

Disbennett said, “Everywhere else, they’re like, ‘keep it moving, keep it moving. I think it’s horrible.” A 32-year-old drug user named Donald concurred, stating, “I don’t exactly know why it’s okay here. This is like the main spot now.”

A drug dealer also admitted to the library being a haven for illegal activities, mentioning the police’s failure to address the issue. The San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) has recently focused on areas known for drug dealing, such as Tenderloin and UN Plaza. In one operation, they arrested 42 individuals for narcotics peddling, including 30 persons with outstanding warrants.

SFPD Chief Bill Scott declared, “Our officers will continue to make arrests and hold individuals committing crimes accountable for their actions.”

Accidental overdoses have declined for two consecutive months, according to the San Francisco Medical Examiner’s office. However, San Francisco public libraries have become the site of protests by librarians, who argue that their workplaces lack security.

Librarian Jessica Choy stated, “There’s tension in the air when there is no trained security around to de-escalate situations.” On the other hand, Michelle Jeffers, the San Francisco Public Library’s Chief of Community Programs and Partnerships, insisted that branch libraries are safer now than they were a decade ago.

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