San Francisco – Mayor London N. Breed issued the following statement regarding the passing of San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi, who died tonight at the age of 59.

"I am saddened to announce that San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi passed away tonight. My heart goes out to his wife, Matsuko, his daughter, Lauren, and all his friends and family. As one of the few elected public defenders in our country, Jeff always stood up for those who didn't have a voice, have been ignored and overlooked, and who needed a real champion. He was committed not only to the fight for justice in the courtroom, but he was also a relentless advocate for criminal justice reform. Jeff led the way on progressive policy reforms, including reducing recidivism, ending cash bail, and standing up for undocumented and unrepresented children. San Francisco has lost a dedicated public servant, and our communities have lost a champion."

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