San Francisco's law enforcement community is reeling as one of their own, Deputy Sheriff Jonathan Espiritu, 49, faces serious allegations of domestic violence and a slew of other crimes. The San Francisco District Attorney's Office announced charges against Espiritu, including multiple felonies that spring from incidents with an ex-girlfriend. Accused of a pattern of abusive behavior, Espiritu's charges include two counts of domestic violence, assault likely to cause great bodily injury, and stalking, among others.

Despite pleading not guilty in his April 8 arraignment, according to a statement obtained by the SF District Attorney's Office, Espiritu is accused of growing increasingly possessive after the victim attempted to terminate their "on and off" dating relationship. The victim, enduring an alleged strangling in her own home at Espiritu's hands on August 14, 2023, also suffered an attack at her workplace on December 8, 2023. In his bid to control, Espiritu's reach is said to have extended to the unlawful planting of a tracking device on the victim's car.

With the next court date scheduled for April 19, the DA's Office moved to have Espiritu held without bail, stressing the public safety risk he allegedly poses. The court granted this move, as reported in their official statement on X. 

1/ District Attorney @BrookeJenkinsSF announced today that San Francisco Deputy Sheriff Jonathan Espiritu has been charged with domestic violence and multiple felonies in connection to incidents involving a woman with which he had a previous dating relationship. pic.twitter.com/M8zoun8SLI

— SF DISTRICT ATTORNEY (@SFDAOffice) April 9, 2024

San Francisco Police are urging anyone with additional information to contact the SFPD Tip Line or use the TIP411 text service — ensuring confidentiality for those who may fear coming forward. This case has been highlighted as an ongoing investigation and safety remains the chief concern, as the victim took the brave step to report after discovering the tracking device.

Highlighting the resources available, the DA's Office officials stress that help is at hand for those who find themselves in similar distressing situations. Victims of domestic violence can seek immediate support through channels such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, WOMAN Inc., and the Asian Women's Shelter, among others, ensuring a lifeline is always within reach.