SAN FRANCISCO—The San Francisco Police Department is mourning the loss of former Police Commission President Julius Turman. According to a press release from the SFPD, Turman was a distinguished labor and employment law attorney and former assistant U.S. Attorney from the District of New Jersey. He joined the San Francisco Police Commission in 2012, becoming Vice President in 2014 and President in 2016.

During his tenure and in collaboration with community members and department stakeholders, Commissioner Turman and his fellow Commissioners worked to strengthen relations between the SFPD and the public, revise and adopt Department General Orders governing department operations, and implement recommendations by the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Office. He served his final day as Commission President and member on May 4th, 2018.

“Commissioner Turman was a tremendously intelligent and compassionate man who cared deeply about this department,” said San Francisco Police Chief William Scott. “He worked to help us increase trust and respect and was relentlessly focused on bringing forth the best practices, policies and procedures to the San Francisco Police Department. We are grateful for his dedication and hard work and we extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

“Julius was dedicated to breaking down barriers and building bridges between people,” said Police Commission President Thomas Mazzucco. “In the weeks before his passing, he demonstrated strength and fortitude to ensure that the important work of the Police Commission would continue. Julius cared about the relationship between the SFPD and the people of our great city. He was a true San Franciscan and has earned the right to be called one of our finest.”

SF Mayor Mark Farrell released the following statement in response to Turman’s passing:

“As a longtime member of the Police Commission, Julius Turman provided honest candor and oversight, working tirelessly to make this city safe and secure for everyone. He was a voice of leadership who helped build trust and comradery between the men and women of the police department and San Francisco residents.

Julius was a civic leader, proud defender of human rights and a fierce advocate for equality and justice. He displayed great leadership working with his fellow commissioners to ensure that critical reforms were instituted at the San Francisco Police Department. Julius always spoke forcefully, yet truly, and he gained the well-earned respect of his colleagues and peers for his clear passion and dedication to serving the people of this City.

I am profoundly saddened by his passing. My deepest sympathies and condolences are with his family and friends at this time.”