After 28 and a half years of dedicated service to the City of Alameda and Alameda Police Department (APD), Chief of Police, Paul Rolleri announces his retirement. Chief Rolleri’s effective retirement date is planned for August 28, 2020.
Chief Rolleri was hired by the department on April 27, 1992, and accepted the position of interim Chief of Police on June 1, 2013 and was permanently appointed to the position on November 17, 2013.
Under the Chief’s leadership, the City of Alameda saw historically low crime rates and has maintained its reputation of being one of the safest Bay Area communities.
In an era of evolving technology and community oriented policing, the Chief’s efforts have focused on crime reduction, transparency, and strengthening community relationships. During his tenure, the department implemented the Automated License Plate Reader program (2014), a Body Worn Camera program and policy (2015), the purchase of less-lethal equipment such as Tasers (2017), and the renewal of the Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS) Unit (2017). In 2019, for the first time in APD’s history, the department began proactively posting citation and arrest data on the City’s website in an effort to further increase transparency.
“Being the Chief of Police here has been the honor and opportunity of a lifetime,” said Police Chief Rolleri. “After 31 years and family and friend discussions, I had made the personal decision to retire back in January.”
The Alameda native began his law enforcement career as an Investigator for the State of California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control from 1989 to 1992 before becoming an Alameda Police Officer in 1992. During his distinguished career Chief Rolleri progressed through the ranks working in many different assignments including patrol, Violent Crimes Unit, and Youth Services Section. He was also a Field Training Officer and member of the Crisis Negotiation Team. Chief Rolleri was promoted to sergeant in 2002, spending additional time in patrol and supervising the APD Jail, Identification Section, and Property and Evidence. In 2009 Rolleri promoted to lieutenant and then to Captain in 2011.
“I am proud of the progress and many accomplishments that APD has enjoyed over the past seven years, but the time is right for me to move on to the next chapter of my personal and professional life,” said Police Chief Rolleri.
In 1997 he was awarded the Department Medal of Merit for his actions following a violent bank robbery in March of that year. Born and raised on the Island, the Chief is deeply rooted in the Alameda community, from his days at St. Philip Neri Elementary School and his years at Alameda High School. His community rapport, ethics, and selflessness, has left a lasting impact on our community that will be deeply missed.
“I appreciate the dedication that Chief Rolleri has shown towards both the community and the Alameda Police Department during his tenure,” said City Manager, Eric Levitt.