San Francisco is caught up in the nationwide battle against the fentanyl crisis. The federal government’s involvement in trying to stop the epidemic also means some suspected drug dealers could face the possibility of deportation.
San Francisco has been a sanctuary city since 1989. This means city employees are prohibited from using city funds or resources to enforce federal immigration policies.
Yet, once drug dealers are convicted in federal courts their case goes outside the city’s jurisdiction and could lead to deportations.
2023 was San Francisco’s deadliest year on record for drug overdoses over 800 people died according to the city’s medical examiner. 2024 is trending down, but there are still close to 500 overdose deaths so far this year. This is leading to an increase in enforcement where even the federal government is getting involved.
MORE: Cautious optimism: San Francisco drug overdose deaths hit 4-year low
“We have been working hand in hand with them in order to address this overwhelming crisis that exist not just here in San Francisco but it’s all over the world,” said Mayor London Breed.