Volume 2, Issue 3 — March 2026

San Diego's Inclusionary Housing Ordinance Upheld in Court

My office successfully defended the City of San Diego’s Inclusionary Housing Ordinance in federal district court, reaffirming the City’s authority to require affordable housing in new residential developments.

The lawsuit, brought by Palmer Kearny Mesa Properties, L.P. and GH Palmer, Inc., sought an exemption from these requirements for a proposed 1,642-unit development in Kearny Mesa. The court dismissed the challenge, allowing the ordinance to remain in place.

Affordable housing plays a vital role in building strong, inclusive communities. This decision helps ensure that as San Diego grows, we continue to create opportunities for residents at all income levels to live and thrive in our city.

Protecting Public Safety and Holding Offenders Accountable in Pacific Beach Case

My office is prosecuting a defendant charged with 13 counts in a sexual misconduct case involving repeated incidents in Pacific Beach. The charges include indecent exposure, lewd conduct in public, sexual battery involving two victims, and vandalism.

The alleged incidents occurred over multiple days near local businesses and public spaces, impacting both individuals and the surrounding community. This type of conduct not only harms victims directly but also threatens public safety and disrupts the sense of security in our neighborhoods.

No one is above the law. Conduct that endangers others and undermines community safety will be met with accountability. My office remains committed to prosecuting these cases and protecting the people of San Diego.

Ensuring Fair Treatment for Workers and Accountability for Employers

We filed a civil enforcement action against The Campbell’s Company for allegedly misclassifying hundreds of California workers as independent contractors. These workers were responsible for stocking and merchandising products but were denied basic protections guaranteed under state law.

By classifying these workers as independent contractors, the company allegedly avoided providing minimum wage, overtime pay, paid sick leave, and other benefits required for employees. Misclassification not only harms workers, but also disadvantages businesses that follow the law.

Workers deserve fair pay, stability, and the protections provided under California law. My office remains committed to supporting a fair economy where workers and responsible employers can succeed.

Standing with San Diego’s Somali Community Against Hate and Discrimination

With growing reports of Somali community members being targeted in San Diego, across California, and nationwide, new resources are now available to help individuals understand their rights and access support. The California Attorney General’s Office has released hate crime guidance and Know Your Rights materials in Somali to better serve communities experiencing harassment and discrimination.

We are grateful for the leadership of Attorney General Rob Bonta in expanding access to these critical protections and ensuring that more Californians can get the help they need.

Discrimination based on who you are, where you come from, or what faith you practice is wrong, and it is illegal. Everyone deserves to live and work without fear of harassment or intimidation. San Diego is proud to be home to one of the largest Somali American communities in the country, and we stand with our Somali community.

Building Connections and Sharing Impact

Civil Prosecutors Coalition Visit to Sacramento

As Vice‑Chair of the Civil Prosecutors Coalition (CPC), I traveled to Sacramento alongside city attorneys and county counsels from major jurisdictions across California. We met with members of the State Legislature and the Governor’s Office to discuss shared priorities including workers’ rights, immigrant rights, strengthening civil enforcement, and defending local governments against harmful federal executive actions.

Sustaining Critical Support for Survivors Through Casa Mariposa

My office is grateful for the continued partnership between the City and County of San Diego to help keep Casa Mariposa open for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. With the County’s $1.5 million investment and Mayor Todd Gloria’s plan to match those funds, families in crisis will continue to have access to a safe and stable place to turn.

Casa Mariposa is a vital part of the services offered through Your Safe Place – The San Diego Family Justice Center, ensuring survivors receive compassionate care, protection, and the resources they need during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

We appreciate the leadership and support of our City and County partners in sustaining this essential resource for our community.

I was honored to attend the 10th Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner hosted by the Somali Bantu Association of America. The annual gathering brings together community members, families, and local leaders to break the fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan is a time of reflection, gratitude, and community, and it was meaningful to be there alongside City leadership. Thank you to the Somali Bantu Association for hosting such a welcoming and meaningful evening.

Wishing you all a safe and festive Eid Mubarak!

Our Civil and Investigative interns toured the California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, where they met with Associate Justice David M. Rubin and learned more about the role of the appellate courts. 

During the visit, interns gained insight into how the appellate process works and had the opportunity to ask Justice Rubin about his path to the bench, his experience in public service, and the skills young attorneys can start building early in their careers. 

A big thank you to Justice Rubin and Clerk/Executive Officer Brandon Henson for hosting our interns and for sharing your time and insights! 

I was honored to present the Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month Proclamation at City Council alongside Council President Pro Tem Kent Lee, and was joined by members of our team, including the San Diego Family Justice Center and our community partners.

Together, we reaffirmed our shared commitment to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and promoting healthy relationships for young people across our community.

Team Spotlight

In the News

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