Apple paid $1.2 million in 2024 to privately hire police officers for security at three San Francisco stores, according to police records. The payments flowed through Security Industry Specialists, a private firm that coordinated access to San Francisco’s controversial 10B program. This arrangement allows businesses to pay officers the same hourly rates as city-funded patrols, with Apple becoming the year’s second-largest client.

San Francisco’s 10B program—embedded in city code—permits private entities to request additional police resources for “law enforcement purposes,” provided the police chief approves. While Airbnb and Salesforce also utilized the service (spending $428K and $728K respectively in 2024), Apple’s contract drew scrutiny for its scale. Critics argue such deals risk conflicts of interest, as officers might prioritize corporate clients over public duties. Proponents counter that it expands protection without taxpayer cost.

The practice extends beyond California: 80% of U.S. police departments allow officers to moonlight as private security, per Wired. However, Apple’s case highlights ethical ambiguities—particularly when tech giants invest heavily in private enforcement. San Francisco’s approach contrasts with cities that prohibit such arrangements entirely.

Apple’s investment in armed patrols underscores the growing privatization of public safety. As remote work declines and retail theft rises, the debate over who funds and controls security remains unresolved. For now, the city’s code allows corporations to pay for police presence—blurring lines between corporate and civic responsibility.