San Francisco official faces allegations of drug use and sexual misconduct

William Monroe Palmer, the president of the San Francisco Sheriff’s Department Oversight Board, is facing renewed calls for removal following allegations of sexual misconduct and drug involvement with a vulnerable woman.

A 26-year-old woman, who suffers from significant mental health challenges, reported that Palmer encountered her near the 24th Street Mission BART Station plaza in July. She alleges that Palmer offered her methamphetamine and fentanyl before taking her to his apartment. During a five-day period, the woman claims she used drugs and had sex with Palmer, stating she was unsure if the encounters were consensual due to her vulnerable state and the influence of the substances.

The woman also reported experiencing a fentanyl overdose at Palmer’s residence, which he reportedly helped her recover from. Palmer has declined to confirm the sexual or drug-related allegations, instead describing himself as a “life coach” who was attempting to help the woman improve her lifestyle.

San Francisco Police Department officers located the woman with Palmer at an art studio on July 7, leading to her being placed on an involuntary psychiatric hold. While police found no immediate evidence of a crime at the scene and released Palmer, city officials are calling for his removal from the oversight board. Palmer has previously faced scrutiny regarding antisemitic online comments and allegations of abusive relationships.