Rash of Attacks on Bicyclists in San Francisco's Panhandle District Spurs More Police Patrols

San Francisco police held a community meeting Tuesday night in response to safety concerns after bicyclists have been attacked in the city's Panhandle district.

Police said six bicyclists have been targeted in attacks over the past 10 days, with the most recent incidents reported Friday night.

Tuesday's meeting was held at the Park police station. Police told neighbors they plan to have increased patrols, both uniform and undercover, in the area.

Police are looking for two to four men in their 20s they said are responsible for the attacks.

"We have leads that we are following," San Francisco Police Capt. Raj Vaswani said. "We hope to bring these individuals into custody."

Some people are suggesting surveillance cameras on homes in the area will help deter the attackers from striking again. Others suggested handing out fliers to inform the neighborhood about the crime spree.

Nuala Sawyer, who blogs about the Panhandle area for Hoodline.com, said there has been quite a response from the bicyclist community.

"Some want to be vigilantes -- go out and get those guys," Sawyer said. "Others avoid the Panhandle at all times of day."

Another resident is hoping for more community involvement.

"I'd like them to say something when they see something -- to care about their neighbor," Justine Purnell said.

Police said the attacks have all occurred between 10 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. Officers are suggesting bicyclists to ride in groups. In addition, bicyclists should turn around or take another route if they see a group of men near the path.

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