SCPD Announces Promotion of Lt. Dan Flippo to Deputy Chief of Police

The Santa Cruz Police Department proudly announces the promotion of Lieutenant Dan Flippo to the role of Deputy Chief of Police.

Introducing Deputy Chief Dan Flippo

Deputy Chief Flippo, a 25 year veteran of the Police Department was promoted on Thursday morning December 22nd following a rigorous and competitive testing process. "Deputy Chief Flippo displays integrity, innovation, and leadership at the highest levels," Chief Vogel said. “He has distinguished himself as an effective administrator and will be an asset to our executive team.”

Deputy Chief Flippo has worked for the Santa Cruz Police Department for 25 years and has filled many roles within the Department. Deputy Chief Flippo was a supervisor for 12 years and a Lieutenant for 4 years. Over his 25 year career, he has served in almost every capacity and assignment either as a patrol officer or Sergeant. He has served in Patrol, Investigations, Training, Traffic, in the Downtown Unit, in Street Crimes, and was a Team Leader and Team Commander in charge of the Tactical Team.

Deputy Chief Flippo has been an instructor in almost every area of training and is a court-recognized expert in the use of force.  He has authored policy and assisted with the adoption of training programs for the department and other law enforcement agencies within our county.

“I am truly humbled by this honor to serve our great city, its valued community members, and our Police Department as Deputy Chief,” Dan Flippo said. “I will strive to represent the highest standards of excellence in service to our community.”

Deputy Chief Flippo has established a good rapport and working relationship with a wide variety of stake holders within the community to include members of city and county governments, business owners, community groups, and concerned neighborhood groups. He looks forward to the opportunity to serve with the executive management team and believes that he possesses the skill sets, judgment, leadership, experience and passion needed for the position. He has strong ties with the community he serves and believes that his connections with the community will assist in pushing forward the goals and mission of both the Department and city leadership.

“Deputy Chief Flippo's promotion represents an important step forward in the Santa Cruz Police Department's succession plan” said Chief Vogel. "He demonstrates dedication and leadership skills at the highest levels and will enhance our department's core values of ethics, integrity, and respect.”

Please join us in celebrating and congratulating Deputy Chief Flippo on achieving a significant milestone in his career.