Roxana Kennedy officially took the reins as Chula Vista’s 24th chief of police, and the first woman to man the position in the city’s history, as she was sworn in last week in front of law enforcement officials throughout the county in a ceremony at City Hall.
Kennedy succeeds retiring Chief David Bejarano, 59, who retired after seven years as Chula Vista’s top cop and a 35-year career in law enforcement.
Kennedy becomes the agency’s first internal hire in more than 60 years.
She has served the department for 24 years, most recently as captain of the patrol operations division where she worked as Bejarano’s second-in-command.
Bejarano promoted Kennedy to captain in 2013 when she also became the first woman in the department to hold the title of captain. He has said Kennedy’s promotion to captain was one of the easiest decisions he has ever made.
Bejarano said the city hired the right candidate for the job.
“Over the years she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, [and she is] well respected by our department, [she is] heavily engaged in the community at the countywide level [and] state law enforcement,” he said. “There is no doubt in my mind that she is more than prepared to take the department to the next level. The department will continue to be successful because of her leadership.”
Two years ago Kennedy was recognized as the top female law enforcement leader in California.
Chula Vista Police Lt. Miriam Byron said it was “encouraging and inspiring” for her to see the first woman appointed to chief.
Kennedy will be tasked with overseeing 227 officers and managing a $50 million budget.
She said her priorities include making Chula Vista safer than it already is, bringing more transparency to the department, focusing on proactive crime fighting and placing a strong emphasis on community engagement and enhanced customer service.
She also said she will treat her officers fairly, many of whom she has worked side-by-side with in her 24 years.
“I might have four stars on my collar now but I haven’t forgotten what it was like to be cop on the street,” she said. “I love this organization and the people who work here; in my book people will always come first.”
National City Police Chief Manuel Rodriguez said he is excited to form a relationship with the new chief just to the south of him.
“I think she is an innovator. I think she has some strong leadership skills. I think the cooperation we have over the last decade or so will only continue and get better,” he said.
In her new role Kennedy’s annual salary will be $202,500.
