I lived in SF from 2010-2016 and worked there (while living in the east bay) until 2020. In that time I had a bicycle stolen, two motorcycles stolen, and a half—dozen occasions where insane homeless people tried to bludgeon or stab me. The homeless problem got worse every year. I often witnessed theft in stores. The first time I saw someone stealing, I told a security guard. He thanked me and then did nothing. The thief walked out with a bunch of candy and booze. Another time I confronted a thief. He became extremely aggressive towards me and said he’d be waiting outside to jump me.

The videos you’ve seen are probably cherry picked for maximum outrage, but less egregious behavior is common. If you commute via public transportation, you will have to deal with crazy smelly drug addicts on a weekly basis. If you leave your bicycle locked up outside, there’s a good chance it will be stolen or vandalized.

I’m so glad I moved. I only regret not doing it sooner.