Rookie SFPD Officer In Custody After DUI Accident, Several Injured

Michael

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Post on May 18, 2025

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Rookie SFPD Officer in Custody After DUI Accident, Several Injured

San Francisco, CA – October 26, 2023 – A San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) rookie officer is in custody following a serious DUI-related car accident that left several people injured late Tuesday night. The incident has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about officer training and accountability within the department.

The crash occurred around 11:45 PM on the intersection of Geary Boulevard and Stanyan Street, a busy thoroughfare known for its high volume of pedestrian and vehicular traffic. According to preliminary reports from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Officer David Chen, a probationary officer with less than six months on the force, was driving his personal vehicle when he allegedly ran a red light, colliding with another vehicle carrying a family of four.

Multiple Injuries Reported, Officer Faces Charges

The impact of the collision was significant. The family in the other vehicle sustained various injuries, ranging from broken bones to severe lacerations. Emergency responders transported all four individuals to San Francisco General Hospital, where they remain under observation. Thankfully, none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening at this time. Officer Chen, while also sustaining minor injuries, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) and causing injury. He faces multiple felony charges, including driving under the influence causing injury (23153(a) VC) and reckless driving causing injury.

SFPD Responds to Public Outrage

The incident has ignited a firestorm of criticism within the San Francisco community. Many are questioning the thoroughness of the SFPD's background checks and training programs, particularly concerning alcohol and substance abuse. The SFPD issued a brief statement early Wednesday morning, acknowledging the incident and confirming Officer Chen's arrest. They further stated that an internal affairs investigation has been launched to fully determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and to ensure accountability. The statement also expressed concern for the victims and promised a transparent investigation.

“The San Francisco Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of conduct, both on and off duty,” the statement read. “This incident is deeply troubling, and we are fully cooperating with the CHP investigation.”

Calls for Increased Accountability and Reform

This incident isn't isolated. Recent years have seen a rise in DUI-related incidents involving law enforcement officers across the country, highlighting a persistent issue requiring immediate attention. Community activists and local politicians are calling for stricter measures and increased accountability within the SFPD and other law enforcement agencies. This includes more rigorous training on responsible alcohol consumption, enhanced background checks, and potentially stricter penalties for officers involved in such incidents.

What's next? The CHP's investigation is ongoing, and the District Attorney's office will determine the formal charges against Officer Chen. The internal affairs investigation within the SFPD will also assess potential disciplinary actions, potentially including dismissal from the force. The case will undoubtedly set a precedent for future discussions on law enforcement accountability and responsible drinking amongst officers. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

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