Sheriff’s Right-Hand Man CHARGED — Shocking Details

San Francisco Sheriff’s Chief of Staff Richard Jue attempted to cover up a hit-and-run by falsely claiming he was the victim after totaling a parked Tesla with his government-issued vehicle and fleeing the scene without reporting the crash for two weeks.

Key Takeaways

• Richard Jue, Chief of Staff for the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office, was arrested for crashing a city-issued sheriff’s vehicle into a parked Tesla while off-duty and fleeing the scene
• Jue initially lied in his report two weeks after the crash, falsely claiming he was the victim of a hit-and-run before later admitting responsibility
• Despite being in a civilian position, Jue wore a uniform, badge, and gun, and had special privileges due to his “Peace Officer Status” that were resented by some in the department
• Jue has been placed on leave pending criminal charges of misdemeanor hit-and-run and filing a false police report, with an arraignment scheduled in San Francisco Superior Court

High-Ranking Sheriff’s Official Charged in Cover-Up

Richard Jue, the Chief of Staff for the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office, faces serious legal consequences after being charged with misdemeanor hit-and-run and filing a false police report. The incident occurred on March 4 when Jue, while off-duty, crashed a Sheriff’s Department vehicle into a parked Tesla on Diamond Heights Boulevard. Instead of taking responsibility at the scene, Jue fled without leaving contact information, violating both department policy and state law. The impact caused significant damage, with the Tesla reportedly totaled in the collision.

“San Francisco Sheriff’s Office Chief of Staff Richard Jue was charged with misdemeanor hit-and-run and for filing a false police report after allegedly crashing a sheriff’s vehicle into a parked car, the city’s attorney general announced on June 23,” stated by city’s attorney general.

Attempted Deception and Delayed Admission

What makes this case particularly troubling is Jue’s apparent attempt to cover up his involvement. According to prosecutors, Jue waited two weeks before reporting the crash to authorities. When he finally filed a report, he compounded his initial wrongdoing by falsely claiming to be the victim of a hit-and-run in a parking lot. This deception didn’t hold up under scrutiny, and Jue subsequently filed a second report the following day in which he admitted responsibility and apologized for leaving the scene without providing required information.

“Jue allegedly waited weeks to even report the crash, and when he did, he lied, authorities said. Prosecutors said Jue waited two weeks to file a report and, when he did, falsely claimed he was the victim of an unknown hit-and-run in a parking lot,” said Prosecutors.

Jue was arrested on June 22 and booked on misdemeanor charges. He was subsequently released after posting a $7,500 bond. The Sheriff’s Office has placed him on administrative leave pending both the criminal case and an internal administrative investigation. His arraignment is scheduled for Thursday in San Francisco Superior Court, where he will face formal charges brought by the District Attorney’s Office. The case highlights concerns about accountability within law enforcement leadership.

Special Privileges and Departmental Tensions

Prior to this incident, Jue had established a lengthy career in San Francisco law enforcement, serving three decades with the San Francisco Police Department before taking his current role. He also previously served as president of the San Francisco Asian Peace Officers Association. Despite holding what is technically a civilian position as Chief of Staff, Jue maintained significant privileges, including wearing a uniform, badge, and gun. He was also issued a city vehicle due to his “Peace Officer Status” and position as a direct report to Sheriff Paul Miyamoto.

“The sheriff’s office holds all members — regardless of rank or role — to the highest ethical and professional standards,” said Sheriff Paul Miyamoto.

These special accommodations reportedly generated resentment among some within the department, creating internal tensions. The hit-and-run incident has further intensified scrutiny of these arrangements, raising questions about privilege and accountability within the sheriff’s office hierarchy. Jue’s arrest follows another recent incident involving a rookie San Francisco Police Department officer who was arrested for a DUI crash, further damaging public trust in local law enforcement leadership during a time when the city faces numerous public safety challenges.