SFPD Irving St. Merchant Walk Shares Hate Crime Hotline, Safety Initiatives

As violence wages on against the Asian community in San Francisco and nationwide, the San Francisco Police Department’s Taraval Station (SFPD Taraval), community leaders and others came together in March for a Merchant Walk on Irving Street. The effort, also happening elsewhere throughout the city, aimed to keep the local business community and residents informed about steps being taken to improve safety in their neighborhood.

In a strong show of solidarity against violence targeting Asians, a host of local leaders congregated outside Uncle Benny’s Donut & Bagel to kick off the Merchant

Walk, including SFPD Community Engagement Commander Daryl Fong, SFPD Taraval Station Captain Nicholas Rainsford, Supervisor Gordon Mar, SFPD officers, cadets and SF SAFE’s Wesley Chu.

“They were passing out flyers and cards, telling residents [that] the new anonymous crime tip line is in service,” said Chu. “Mandarin and Cantonese speakers can call the number 415-558-5588 to report hate crimes, blessing scams…etc. More events and merchant walks will be rolled out to other districts very soon.”

For emergencies, community members are encouraged to dial 911 immediately so that the SFPD can respond accordingly. “As always, if you see something, say

something,” said SF SAFE Executive Director Kyra Worthy.

The SFPD is also warning the Chinese community to beware of strangers purporting to offer relief from a curse or illness and/or those who provide “purification” ceremonies that require cash and valuable items as offerings. These activities are commonly known as “blessing scams.” Those wanting to report this type of scam can call the SFPD’s Blessing Scam Tip Line at the same number above.

Some tips for community members to avoid becoming the victim of a blessing scam include: Be aware of strangers; do not withdraw money at banks/ATMs with strangers; do not entrust money or valuables to strangers offering prayers or healing; and do not take strangers into your home.

Any community members targeted by scammers or knowing of an elder who was approached by one is advised to contact police immediately. Reports can be made at any SFPD district station or by calling 415-553-0123. Cantonese speakers can leave tips on a special tip line by calling 415-553-9212 or 1-855-737-3847.