Palo Alto Police Chief Retiring

PALO ALTO, CA -- After nearly 35 years with the city, Police Chief Dennis Burns will retire at the end of 2016, City Manager James Keene has announced.

Burns first joined Palo Alto in 1982, and was named as Assistant Police Chief in 2007. He served as Interim Police Chief in 2008, and assumed the permanent role in 2009. He also served as the Interim Fire Chief in 2010 while Palo Alto conducted a search for a new fire chief.

His imminent departure was announced by the city on Dec. 12.

"Dennis has had a long and distinguished career with the City, and while this is certainly bittersweet, he has earned the opportunity to move into the next phase of his life," Keene said in a statement. “Dennis has been a trusted leader and always went out of his way to add a human touch to our public safety operations. He will leave a legacy of internal organizational improvements and a deep connection with our citizens and the surrounding communities.”

In announcing his retirement, Burns said it was simply time.

“I am looking forward to the next chapter. The organization is stable, and we have a capable, professional team in place," he said. "I am confident that we have the right personnel and organizational structure to ensure the Palo Alto Police Department will maintain its high standards and dedication to protecting the community.”

In consultation with Chief Burns, Keene has decided to appoint Captain Ron Watson, a 26-year veteran, as Interim Police Chief during the recruitment process for a new permanent chief, which is expected to take a number of months.

Watson is currently one of two captains in the department, and has extensive operational and field experience. He has said he won't be a candidate for the permanent Police Chief position, but that he looks forward to working with the new chief to ensure a smooth transition.

A recognition ceremony is being planned to honor Chief Burns during a January meeting of the City Council.

Image courtesy City of Palo Alto