URGENT UPDATE: Days before Christmas, tenants at Thomas Paine Square in the Fillmore District of San Francisco are accusing employees of the Domus Management Company of breaking into their apartments and stealing over $2,000 worth of Christmas gifts. Surveillance footage captures the shocking incident, showing a man attempting to disable a security camera while accomplices remove items from the apartments.
REPORTS CONFIRM: A tenant’s caregiver, Aveda Hussain, described the situation as devastating. “They took advent calendars, Build-A-Bear kits, gifts meant for friends and family,” she stated, highlighting the emotional toll on residents, particularly those with disabilities. Hussain’s client, Mr. Lee, suffers from physical and mental health challenges, making the invasion particularly frightening for him.
The incident reportedly took place on December 11, 2025, and has left tenants feeling violated and fearful in their own homes. “It’s a violation of privacy,” Hussain added. The San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) confirmed that they are conducting an open investigation, with no arrests made as of yet.
DOMUS MANAGEMENT RESPONDS: In a statement, Cathy M. Metcalf, president of the management company, acknowledged that the individuals in the video are indeed their employees. However, she claimed the taken items were not Christmas gifts, asserting that the tenant was not the primary leaseholder and calling the situation a misunderstanding. Tenants like Barbara Carthen, treasurer of the tenants’ association, expressed outrage, stating, “We want more accountability and protection against these violations.”
COMMUNITY OUTRAGE: Tenant organizer Patrick Cochran emphasized the deep breach of trust, stating, “It was like the Grinch robbed Christmas.” He urged immediate action from the management company to restore security and trust within the community, including changing locks and vetting new hires more thoroughly.
The situation is developing, and residents are calling for a thorough investigation and immediate reforms to ensure their safety and security. The SFPD has urged anyone with additional information about the incident to contact them at 415-575-4444 or text tips to TIP411.
As this story unfolds, tenants are left grappling with fear and distrust during what should be a joyful season. This alarming incident raises broader questions about tenant safety and property management accountability in San Francisco. Share this story to raise awareness of this urgent situation affecting the community.
