Oceanside Police Chief To Retire In October

OCEANSIDE, CA — After nearly four decades in law enforcement, Oceanside police Chief Frank McCoy will retire in October, city officials announced Thursday.

McCoy has served as the city's police chief since January 2006, making him the longest-serving chief in the history of the department.

"We thank Chief McCoy for his transformation of the police department into one that emphasizes community policing, and for building positive relationships with the community while reducing crime," Mayor Peter Weiss said in a statement.

During his tenure, the city experienced a 33 percent drop in overall crime and a 28 percent dip in violent offenses, according to the Oceanside City Manager's Office.

"I'm deeply honored to have worked with such great people within the Oceanside Police Department and to serve our community," McCoy said in a statement.

"I am able to retire knowing that the members of our department are poised to not only keep Oceanside safe, but will serve the city with professionalism and provide excellent customer service."

McCoy began his law enforcement career in 1984 with the city of Manhattan Beach. He went on to spend 20 years with the Long Beach Police Department, rising through the ranks to the position of commander.

McCoy previously retired from the Oceanside Police Department in October 2013, but stayed on as interim chief and was rehired as police chief in April 2014. At the time, he was asked to mentor his staff for future leadership, according to the City Manager's Office.

City officials said they would immediately begin a search for a new police chief, a process expected to take several months.