Rep. Adam Schiff's Car Burglarized in San Francisco

Rep. Adam Schiff's Luggage Taken From Car in Downtown San Francisco Garage

Rep. Adam Schiff, a Democratic congressman who is running for U.S. Senate, had his luggage swiped from his car while it was parked in a downtown San Francisco garage Thursday, April 25, 2024. The burglary underscores the ongoing issue of car burglaries in the city, despite a recent crackdown by police.

"Yes, they took my bags," the congressman lamented to the San Francisco Chronicle, adding that he didn't want to dwell on his firsthand experience as a crime victim.

Schiff's campaign confirmed the burglary and declined further comment, citing an ongoing investigation.

The burglary involving a prominent member of Congress brought to mind the July 2021 robbery and assault of former U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer in nearby Oakland. Boxer was pushed by an assailant and had her cell phone stolen, but was not seriously injured.

Burglaries In San Francisco

• In August, the city's police chief announced a crackdown on fighting auto smash-and-grabs.
• The San Francisco Police Department reported nearly 900 break-ins in February, down from 1,850 in July.
• There were more than 3,000 reported thefts in September 2022.
• Visitors and residents are constantly reminded to remove valuables from parked cars.
• Statistically, reported auto break-ins are down in San Francisco, but vehicles with busted windows and sprinkles of broken glass remain a common sight in the city.

Social Media Reaction

• Schiff was the target of plenty of social media following the crime: "Democrats have nobody to blame but themselves," one user wrote on the social platform X.
• Some people defended Schiff, saying that the burglary could happen to anyone and that it was wrong to blame him for the crime.
• Others used the incident to criticize Schiff's policies on crime, saying that he was not doing enough to protect the city from criminals.

Schiff's Career and Political Views

Schiff, a former federal prosecutor, rose to national prominence as the lead prosecutor in then-President Donald Trump's first impeachment trial. Schiff says on his campaign website that he is "committed to reforming our broken criminal justice system and keeping California families and communities safe."

Schiff has been a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump and his policies. He has also been a strong supporter of gun control and immigration reform.

Schiff is currently running for U.S. Senate in California. He is facing several other candidates in the Democratic primary, including former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.