San Francisco's crackdown on business-targeted crime has hit a peak with the conviction of a man indicted for burglary and vandalism at two popular spots in the city - Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square. In a recent announcement, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins reported Cody Baldridge, 34, was found guilty by a jury on two counts of second-degree commercial burglary and one count of felony vandalism, signaling a hard stance against property crime in the bustling tourist areas.

The jury delivered a swift message-response to the series of crimes committed by Baldridge; a clear zero-tolerance policy was echoed by Jenkins, who emphasized, "targeting our businesses in San Francisco for theft and vandalism will not be tolerated." Over a spree lasting a month, Baldridge was caught on surveillance footage breaking and entering the Buena Vista Café and Square Pie Guys, subsequently helping himself to bottles of alcohol and other property. Then, his exploits culminated in a felony vandalism act using a fire extinguisher at Ghirardelli Square, according to evidence presented at trial.

Captured by a vigilant security guard and handed over to the authorities, Baldridge's arrest on February 16 was the result of collaborative efforts by the San Francisco Police Department’s Central Station, the District Attorney's office team, and the cooperation of the victims. As quoted in a press release issued by the San Francisco District Attorney's Office, Assistant District Attorney Robert Miranda conveyed gratitude for the jury's attention and pronounced the verdict as a victory for local business owners who have been hit hard in recent years, remarking, "The jury’s verdict brings justice to San Francisco’s small businesses who have faced many challenges these last few years and shows that San Franciscans will hold those who commit crimes against our communities’ small businesses accountable."