Long Beach Police Chief Robert G. Luna to Retire in December 2021

Long Beach Police Chief Robert G. Luna announced today that he will be retiring in December 2021. Chief Luna was sworn in as Chief of Police on November 22, 2014, and has served on the Police Department’s Command Staff since 2001.

This decision signifies the potential for big changes throughout the City and more specifically the LBPD. The news of Luna’s retirement comes just months after the adoption of the 2022 FY City budget which boosts police spending significantly. 

In a written message to his employees, Chief Luna stated, “I have been so fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve this city for the past 36 years and it has been a true honor and privilege to serve as the Chief of Police for the last seven. Among the most rewarding experiences was the opportunity to be a part of this leadership team that has helped to craft innovative programs, initiatives, and strategies to make our Department a true 21st-century police department.

I wish to thank my family, friends, Mayor Garcia, our City Council, former and current City Managers Pat West and Tom Modica, and our community for their support. I would also like to thank all of our amazing employees in the Police Department. I truly consider you to be my heroes.”

In response to the Chief’s announcement, Mayor Robert Garcia stated: “Long Beach has been incredibly grateful to have had Chief Luna lead our police department. I have served with him since my early days as mayor and he’s been an incredible partner and friend. I am so happy for him and his family and wish him well.”

Chief Luna will continue to serve as Police Chief through December 2021. Further information on the selection process for the next Chief of Police will be announced by the City’s Human Resource Department in the near future.