Santa Monica’s First Internal Police Chief In Over 40 Years Takes The Helm

SANTA MONICA, CA — The new Santa Monica police chief was sworn in during a Wednesday ceremony, a moment Chief Deputy William Heric called “an important milestone for the department and for the city itself.”

Chief Darrick Jacob, who has been with the department since 2004, took the helm as the Santa Monica Police Department’s first internal chief in more than 40 years.

“There's something especially meaningful about the fact that Chief Jacob is the first internal chief appointed in more than 40 years,” Mayor Caroline Torosis said at the swearing-in ceremony. “It sends a powerful message about the value of institutional knowledge, mentorship and investing in the people that have dedicated their careers to the city.”

Jacob said he was “truly honored" by his appointment.

“This moment isn't about me," Jacob said. "It's about our police department, our city, and the incredible people who make up this community, and make it what it is."

In his time with the department, Jacob has worked “in a variety of leadership and operational roles, including Deputy Chief beginning in 2020,” city officials said.

“His experience spans patrol operations, investigations, organizational management, and citywide public safety coordination,” officials said.

Since August, Jacob had been acting chief.

Heric said Jacob “leads with humility, listens before he speaks and never forgets to remind us that this job is ultimately about people, both in the community we serve and the members of the department that serve the community.”

“He understands this organization because he's lived it. He's been forged by it, and he's evolved with it,” Heric said. “He knows its challenges, its expectations, its strengths, and he brings to this role not only experience, but character, compassion and a deep commitment to doing this job the right way.”

Among Jacob’s priorities as police chief is “crime suppression,” he said.

“We will be proactive, fair and focused,” Jacob said. “We will hold people accountable within the law.”

Another priority, Jacob said, will be the city’s response to homelessness.

“Homelessness is not a crime, but we will always treat people with dignity and compassion at the same time,” Jacob said. “However, disorder and unlawful behavior in our public spaces will not be tolerated.”

Lastly, Jacob said the department will focus on traffic issues, as well as community and youth development.

“Trust is built one interaction at a time. Every contact matters,” Jacob said. “Engagement is not the responsibility of one unit or program. It belongs to every member of this police department. By showing up, listening, treating people with respect, we will strengthen the relationship that makes our work possible. Internally, my commitment is just as strong.”