San Francisco, CA – San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced today that her office secured a conviction of Michael Stortz (36), after a trial by jury for kidnapping a woman in the Mission District.  Mr. Stortz was convicted of one count of kidnapping (PC 207(a)).

“I would like to thank the jury for their service,” said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins.  “The jury’s verdict delivers justice for the victim and ensures that Mr. Stortz will face consequences for his crimes.  My office will continue to fight for justice and protecting the safety of the public so people can walk around safely without fear of being accosted at any time of day in the Mission and in all of our neighborhoods across the city.”

According to evidence and other testimony presented at trial, on October 3, 2023, at around 2:15 am, Mr. Stortz crossed 24th street near Balmy Street and targeted a young woman who had been on her phone for a few minutes.  He examined her for a brief moment and then grabbed her from behind and dragged her fifty feet down Balmy Street to an area surrounded by metal cages.  After a brief struggle, the victim was able to break free and escape.  The victim reported the crime the following night and the San Francisco Police Department found and arrested Mr. Stortz on October 4, 2023.

The case against Mr. Stortz was successfully prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Yang, with assistance from District Attorney Investigator Michael Beaver as well as paralegals Sara Wong and Joshua Ng, with IT support from Noaeh Pinaire and Leland Chan.  Victim Advocates Abby Cordova and Melissa Curiel assisted throughout the pendency of this case.  Prosecutors were able to develop a strong case against Mr. Stortz based on the swift and thorough investigation by the San Francisco Police Department.

“I am grateful to the jurors for their service and thoughtful deliberation in this case.” said Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Yang. “I am especially grateful for the victim’s bravery in reporting the crime and testifying and for the San Francisco Police Department’s diligence in locating and apprehending Mr. Stortz so quickly.  Our city was made safer by their swift actions and ensured justice was done.”

Mr. Stortz is currently in custody.  Sentencing will be scheduled on June 27, 2024.

Court Number: 23016291