In a significant development in the ongoing tension between San Francisco residents and autonomous vehicles, a Castro Valley resident has been charged with slashing the tires of 17 Waymo robotaxis. The incidents occurred between June 24 and June 26 and were captured by the cameras installed on Waymo’s autonomous vehicles.
Details of the Incident
Prosecutors revealed that the alleged tire slashings took place in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco. The suspect, identified as Ronaile Joshua Burton, is accused of using a knife to slash the tires of multiple Waymo vehicles. This case has brought to light the frustrations some residents have with the increasing presence of autonomous vehicles in their neighborhoods.
Waymo’s Response
Waymo’s technology played a crucial role in identifying the suspect. The San Francisco Police Department reviewed footage from the exterior cameras of Waymo’s robotaxis to track down the alleged vandal. “We can confirm that charges have been brought against the individual who aggressively vandalized a number of Waymo vehicles, some with riders present,” said Waymo spokesperson Katherine Barna. The company is taking steps to recover damages and prevent future incidents.
Legal Proceedings
Burton has pled not guilty to all 17 charges. The estimated damage to each vehicle exceeds $400. Due to the perceived public safety risk, Burton has been placed in custody without bail while awaiting trial, scheduled for Friday, July 12. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins emphasized that vandalism will not be tolerated and that individuals who destroy property will be held accountable.
Defense’s Perspective
Deputy Public Defender Adam Birka-White, representing Burton, argued that his client needs assistance rather than incarceration. He criticized the District Attorney’s office for prioritizing corporate interests over helping individuals in need. The public defender’s office plans to fight the charges vigorously.
Context of Robotaxi Vandalism
This incident is not isolated. San Francisco has seen a series of anti-robotaxi actions, reflecting local resistance to autonomous vehicles. In February, a Waymo vehicle was set on fire in Chinatown. Last year, residents placed traffic cones on top of autonomous vehicles to disable them. The recurring theme is the frustration of some residents with the increasing automation of urban transport.
Waymo’s Cooperation with Law Enforcement
Waymo stated that it carefully reviews law enforcement requests for footage from its vehicles. The company challenges, limits, or rejects requests that lack a valid legal basis or are overly broad. Waymo emphasized its commitment to protecting privacy while cooperating with legal investigations.
