After a robust and inclusive selection process, City Manager Miguel Márquez has announced the appointment of Eugene Harris to serve as Pasadena’s police chief, effective Jan. 3, 2023.
Chief Harris has served as the police chief for the City of San Gabriel since 2016. He also serves as president of the Los Angeles County Police Chiefs’ Association, actively engaging in advancing the science and art of police administration and crime prevention. In this role, he is also involved in developing, teaching and disseminating best practices across numerous agencies. Chief Harris brings nearly 30 years of law enforcement and leadership experience to Pasadena, with a proven track record of community engagement and personnel development, strategic budget management, and the use of new law enforcement technology. “Chief Harris is a well-known leader in law enforcement. His interpersonal and communication skills and his proven approach to proactive and community policing will bring about the effective implementation of ever-evolving best practices to keep our community safe,” said Márquez. “I am confident he will lead our peace officers with distinction and will become an invaluable member of the greater Pasadena community.” After receiving an honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps, Chief Harris began his career in law enforcement as a Los Angeles County deputy sheriff. He also served for 23 years in the Monterey Park Police Department, where he was promoted through the ranks to captain. In 2016, he was named police chief of the City of San Gabriel. “I am honored to be entrusted with this amazing opportunity and am humbled by the responsibility to our residents, visitors, and the men and women of our department,” said Chief Harris. “Together, we will continue to enhance the culture of proactive community policing and exceptional service to our stakeholders. I look forward to joining the Pasadena community and serving alongside the professionals of the Pasadena Police Department.” Chief Harris received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from the University of Phoenix, and a master’s degree in law enforcement and public safety leadership from the University of San Diego. He is also a graduate of the West Point Leadership Program, POST Command College, and the FBI National Academy. He has served on numerous professional organizations and authored a book entitled "The Zero Stress Zone, a Layman’s Guide to Stress Management." When not working, Chief Harris devotes his time to various community organizations, and to mentoring and coaching youth. Stay connected to the City of Pasadena! Visit us online at www.cityofpasadena.net; follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook; or call the Citizen Service Center Monday through Friday during business hours at (626) 744-7311. |
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