While California Democrat representative Adam Schiff’s vehicle was parked in a downtown San Francisco parking garage, his luggage became the target of a “smash and grab” theft. As a result of this unfortunate incident, Schiff found himself attending a posh dinner party in attire that was far from planned, clad only in his olive vest, gray pants, and a navy long-sleeve shirt. The purpose of his attendance at the dinner was to express gratitude to prominent Bay Area lawyer Joe Cotchett, a staunch supporter of Schiff’s candidacy for the Senate seat left vacant by the passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein in September.
Lee Houskeeper, a press agent for Cotchett, humorously remarked, “I guess it’s ‘Welcome to San Francisco.’” Despite being advised against leaving valuables in his parked car, Schiff explained that he was in a rush and did not want to be late for an appointment.
Car burglaries, especially smash-and-grab break-ins, are unfortunately nothing new in San Francisco, a city that has earned the moniker “Bip City” due to the rapid and stealthy tactics of certain thieves. Recognizing the severity of the issue, local law enforcement officials have made combating these crimes a top priority. They have implemented various tactics, such as increasing patrols with plainclothes officers and using bait automobiles to catch perpetrators in the act.
Looking ahead, Schiff will face Republican Senate candidate Steve Harvey in the upcoming November elections. This incident reminds us of the challenges faced by politicians, residents, and visitors in a city where car burglaries have become all too common.