Kung Food, a small business located near Alamo Square in San Francisco, has fallen victim to a string of break-ins, with the recent incident marking the seventh time the establishment has been vandalized or burglarized since 2020. Despite reaching out for assistance from local leaders and law enforcement, the owner, Andy Yang, has yet to receive any help. Frustrated and discontented with the lack of support, Yang resorted to posting signs outside the business to deter potential criminals, informing them that there is no money on the premises.
Video surveillance footage from the store captured a man forcibly breaking the door open and proceeding directly to the cash register. He managed to steal $100 in cash and two iPads. The repairs to the door ended up costing Yang around $500. The proximity of a bus stop adjacent to the store poses an additional challenge, as it makes it easier for potential perpetrators to spot an open entrance and freely wreak havoc inside.
These break-ins have been an ongoing issue for Kung Food, with the first incident occurring back in 2019. At that time, Yang attempted to contact Dean Preston, the supervisor of District 5, where the business is situated. However, his efforts proved to be futile, as he received no response or assistance. Yang later discovered that Preston’s office had no record of his attempts to reach out.
While arrests were made following one of the break-ins, Yang’s case ended up being dismissed during court proceedings. Yang expressed frustration at the state of the justice system, believing it to be poorly suited for protecting small businesses like his. As a result of these repeated incidents, Yang may ultimately be forced to consider relocating his business, despite his desire to remain in his current location.
Kung Food’s lease is set to expire in February 2024, and Yang hopes that the break-ins will cease before then, allowing him to continue operating from the same premises. However, if the security situation does not improve, he may have no choice but to make the difficult decision to move.
The frequent break-ins at Kung Food highlight not only the individual business’s struggle but also the challenges faced by small businesses throughout San Francisco. It raises questions about the effectiveness of local leaders and law enforcement in providing adequate support and protection. The lack of assistance received by Yang underscores the frustration that many business owners experience when seeking help in such situations.
In a city known for its vibrant small business culture, it is crucial to address the concerns raised by Kung Food and find solutions that enhance security and minimize the risks faced by local establishments. Building stronger partnerships between businesses, community leaders, and law enforcement could prove instrumental in fortifying the resilience of San Francisco’s small business community.
While Kung Food’s plight reflects the difficulties faced by one business, it serves as a reminder of the broader challenges encountered by entrepreneurs striving to maintain their livelihoods amidst the ever-present threat of theft and vandalism. The need for comprehensive support systems to protect small businesses from such incidents is underscored, as is the importance of fostering an environment in which they can thrive and contribute to the city’s economic vitality.
