As someone who lived in and around SF for a few years back in the the 2000s. I can say that there is definitely an attitude of 'whatever' when it comes to national stuff. Like I wouldn't be surprised if this guy is oblivious that millions of people are talking about him...other than maybe the part that he is in jail. And even if he did he would just want to get back out there to land his next fix and hopefully an adventure along with it.

So yeah, the CIA loves this setup. In fact, they hire 'productive junkies' to do their bidding. They provide the equipment (and drugs). It is easy to see that in the photo on the right that he doesn't quite yet understand the equipment. Etc. etc. etc.