Crime in North Beach

Theft is the most prominent crime in North Beach.

While North Beach looks to be safe and sound, crime does not stop.

The North Beach neighborhood in San Francisco is one of the many areas visited by tourists. For places such as Coit Tower and Pier 39, the area seems to be one of the nicest but it is no stranger to crime. 

While “violent” crimes aren’t prominent in the neighborhood, the great majority of crimes that occur in the area have to do with theft.

Larceny theft is the most reported crime to Central Station, the closest station to North Beach as well as its neighboring areas like China Town, Russian Hill and Telegraph Hill. Almost half of the thefts are classified as car thefts alone.

Henry Jeger has been living in the neighborhood for the last 12 years and says that he, as well as his neighbors, have personally experienced theft in their everyday lives. 

“Because of a concern over crime and theft we had a camera set up at our security gate. After the camera was installed I had a package that was delivered and I received a notification from the service and about two to three hours when I came home, inside the security gate was an open box with my items gone,” Jeger stated.

“So we looked at the film and what happened was a couple of guys sat down, they were able to reach in and grab the box that was close to the security gate and they cut it open with a knife cutter and took out my jacket and put in a big shopping bag, somewhat similar to a Trader Joe’s bag and walked away,” Jeger stated.

Jeger later stated that he is someone that is home more than other neighbors so he will pick up their packages and keep them safe at his house until they get home.

“I have a neighbor who was parked in front of a house that sold for an awful lot of money up the street, not long ago. He had his van parked up there for three days, he went to get it and it was gone. So someone stole it right in front of a very expensive house,” Jeger later added.

Adam Lobsinger, a Public Information Officer, made some suggestions for residents as to how they can protect themselves from experiencing theft.

“Never leave valuables in view. Place items in your trunk prior to arriving at your destination. Keep all items such as backpacks, purses, cameras and passports on your person. Park in a lot with an attendant, if possible. Keep packages with you until you’re ready to leave or move your vehicle to a different location each time you load items into the trunk,” Lobsinger stated via email.

While theft is not seen as a huge crime, it is still important to take caution in order to not experience it first hand.