In a significant development regarding longstanding unsolved crimes, the San Francisco District Attorney's Office has leveled charges against two individuals for their alleged involvement in a series of cold case murders. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins confirmed the arraignment date for the accused, Sauntek Harris, 44, and Shaun Britton, 48. They are set to appear at the Hall of Justice in Department 10 next Friday, as per the San Francisco District Attorney's Office.
Harris faces several charges, which include four counts of murder under Penal Code 187(a). A comprehensive list of allegations against him features the use of a firearm with intent (PC 12022.53(d)), engaging in street terrorism (PC 186.22(b)(5)), and operating within a criminal street gang (PC 190.2(a)(22)). Harris is also charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, reflecting past felony convictions in San Francisco detailed in the complaint. His criminal record includes convictions for carrying a concealed firearm and drug offenses. On the other hand, Britton is charged with one count of murder, with similar allegations of firearm use, gang involvement, and street terrorism linked to his case.
The District Attorney’s office cited public safety concerns as the reason behind their move to keep both Harris and Britton in custody until trial. According to the criminal complaint released by the office, the first murder tied to Harris and Britton dates back to January 18, 2002, involving victim Perry Bradstreet. Further allegations state Harris's use of a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol in subsequent murders, spotlighting the orchestrated nature of these violent acts.
Additional details of the criminal complaint reveal the intricacy of the charges. Harris is accused of the fatal shootings of Lorenzo Richards and Gerald White in 2002, the latter allegedly targeted as a witness to prevent his testimony. A later incident, dated August 10, 2019, concerns Dietrich Whitley's murder, whereupon Harris reportedly employed a tactic of lying in wait. The timeline of these events, spanning over a decade, underscores a prolonged investigation now culminating in these charges.
As this remains an ongoing investigation, the authorities have urged the public to assist with any information. District Attorney Investigator Gino Guerrero, Homicide Unit, at 415-308-2048 and Homicide Inspector John Cunnie at 415 553-9481 are the relevant contacts. Tips can also be submitted through the SFPD Department Operations Center at 415 553-1071 or by texting TIP411 with a message starting with SFPD.
