SCPD Joins Nextdoor

Hello Neighbors,
We are excited to let you know that the Santa Cruz Police Department is joining Nextdoor to share information and updates that directly impact your neighborhood.

Our Nextdoor account presents local public safety news, crime prevention, department updates, and address quality of life issues to promote safer neighborhoods in the City of Santa Cruz.

 
Please take a moment to connect with us on NEXTDOOR https://nextdoor.com/pages/santa-cruz-police-department-1..., so that we can grow our audience, reach more neighbors & help the community!

Tapping into the Nextdoor hub with SCPD gives you another channel for public safety information. We cannot monitor your neighborhood communications on Nextdoor. Your conversation remains private to you and your neighbors.

So, if you hear something, say something. It is essential to contact SCPD by phone if you need to report something in progress or suspicious. Dial 911 to report emergencies or (831) 471-1131 for non-emergencies.

To file a report online: https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/police/report-a-crime/online-police-reporting-system.

Confidential Crime Tip Line 420-5995 or online at https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/police/how-do-i/leave-a-crime-tip/report-a-crime-tip#:~:text=Call%209%2D1%2D1.,call%209%2D1%2D1.

Utilizing Nextdoor, we continue to work with and for our community to inform and educate public safety communications to promote safer neighborhoods.

Learn more at www.SantaCruzPolice.com, where our Neighborhood Policing Team contacts, crime statistics, policies, permits, forms, press releases, and community programs are available.
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Santa Cops Bring the Magic of the Holidays to Children in Need 🎄 Donations Needed for Santa Cop & Friends Event

Santa Cruz Police Department hosts an inaugural Santa Cops & Friends for Kids program to help make the holidays brighter for underprivileged children in the City of Santa Cruz. Santa Cops & Friends community outreach works to provide gifts and necessities to those who would otherwise receive nothing over the holiday season. 

The Santa Cruz Police Department asks for donations from businesses and community members to provide gifts for disadvantaged children referred to the Santa Cops & Friends program by schools, local nonprofits, and residents.

"The success of Santa Cop & Friends Program is only possible with our community's generous donation support," said Joyce Blaschke, SCPD spokeswoman. "During these difficult times, the spirit of giving is more important than ever. Santa Cops is another way of giving back to the community that officers care so much about and do their best to protect".

DONATIONS | Santa Cops & Friends for Kids is entirely donation driven. Please support this worthy cause with a monetary donation, gift card, or toys/clothing (new, unwrapped, and in the original packaging). Our goal is to help as many families as possible; the number depends on donations. 

Monetary donations can be made online or by check payable to Friends of SCPD.

Donation Drop-Off Locations
SCPD 155 Center Street, Santa Cruz
Mon – Thurs, 9am - 3:30pm 
831-420-5870 to be met at the door. 

SC Civic Auditorium,
307 Center Street, Santa Cruz
Tues-Fri, 2pm-4pm

Donation Pick Up
We'll come to You! Call (831)420-5844 to make arrangements.

APPLICATION PROCESS | Eligible applicants must be 5-13 years of age, reside in the City of Santa Cruz, and family has an economic or social hardship. Such as losing a job, homelessness, military deployment, or illness.

* Referrals come from schools, nonprofit children's programs, and social service organizations.

* Community members can also nominate children.

* Application deadline is ‪Dec. 4, 2020, for referrals & nominations.

SANTA COPS & FRIENDS FOR KIDS
 DRIVE THROUGH EVENT Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020 

Santa Cops & Friends will host a drive-through holiday event on Church Street to observe social distancing rules. As families pull up to the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, SCPD Santa Cops deliver gifts selected to children in our program.

Everything you need to know about Santa Cops & Friends for Kids

Event Details, Donations, Applications, Forms & Flyers in English and Spanish

Santa Cops & Friends for Kids | www.cityofsantacruz.com/SantaCops
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SCPD Modification of Lobby Services During COVID-19

Due to the recent surge in positive Covid-19 cases, the Santa Cruz Police Department lobby is now closed to public access until further notice. This decision was made in the community’s and staff’s best interest to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Santa Cruz County.

Although our lobby is closed to the public, our staff at SCPD are working and ready to serve you. 

***Call or utilize the intercom outside of the PD Lobby.***

For an emergency that affects life or property, call 9-1-1 immediately.
For non-emergencies, call (831) 471-1131
- Speak with an officer on duty.
- Request a post storage hearing / require a vehicle release
- Need a citation/ticket signed off

Contact Records Division at (831) 420-5870
Monday – Friday, 6:00 am – 4:30pm
- Assistance requesting police report & records inquiries
- 290 Registration (Tuesday & Thursday)

Property Release (Tuesday 11:00am – 3:00 pm & Thursday 12:30pm -2:30pm)

Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day to take your calls, and you can file a report online www.santacruzpolice.com both actions will appropriately notify your SCPD officers.

As always, SCPD continues to respond to all calls for service, patrol city streets, and protect our community.

Welcome K9 Parker!

SCPD is proud to introduce our newest officer, K9 Parker.

Parker is a 1 ½-year-old Labrador Retriever who has skills as a dual purpose police service dog. Parker works alongside his handler, Officer Brian George in our patrol division. The K9 duo of Parker and Officer George completed a 6-week law enforcement canine training together before deployed as a team out on the streets.

K9 Officer George and his partner Parker spend most of their time assisting officers with drug investigations. What's special about Parker is in addition to being a great working dog certified in narcotics detection, he's also very social and comfortable connecting with people.

Due to Parker's easy-going personality, Officer George and Parker can participate in community outreach efforts and help ease tensions when interacting with crime victims and children. A bonus for us all, Parker's sunny disposition brings smiles to staff members as he wanders our halls.

K9 Parker is a welcomed addition to our K9 Program and Patrol Operations! A special thank you for the generous donation from Joanne Parker for supporting our K9 Unit and making it all possible.

K9 Parker is excited to do his part in helping to keep Santa Cruz a safe community for all. If you happen to come across the K9 team between service calls, feel free to introduce yourself and congratulate them on their hard work and success.

Santa Cruz Police will not tolerate any form of hate crime.

When there is a cause, SCPD will always take the proper and strongest action possible concerning hate crimes.

On July 5, 2020, at about 6:24 pm, SCPD responded to an altercation between a black man attacked by a white suspect who drew a knife and started slashing at the victim on San Lorenzo Blvd and Broadway Street. The suspect, Ole Hougen 43 years old, screamed racial slurs at the victim during the incident. Fortunately, the victim was able to fend off the attacker until officers arrived.

Mr. Hougen was arrested and charged for a hate crime, the criminal act committed against another person that is motivated by prejudice and assault with a deadly weapon.

The suspect Ole Hougen, only wanted a "white person to help" take him into custody. Not an SCPD accommodation. Our staffing includes people of color. Mr. Hougen continued to make racial comments and slur towards SCPD officers and jail staff during the booking process. Officers remained professional at all times, even though his behavior was out of control and unacceptable.

If a community member is a victim of, or witness to, what they believe to be a hate crime, call SCPD at 9-1-1 or (831) 471-1131.

SCPD Warns the Public to be Aware of COVID-19 Scams

As the COVID-19 crisis continues, scammers are using this as an opportunity to take advantage of consumers. SCPD reminds you to be on the lookout for scammers and their schemes. Often scammers will try to impersonate a government agency or a business (such as a utility company or bank) and try to befriend you in hopes of getting you to pay them money, provide personal information, or access your home.

PSA Video on SCPD YouTube 
Stay informed by following these tips to protect yourself.

• Ignore offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Scammers are selling fake or unproven products to treat or prevent COVID-19. Beware of text messages and emails offering cures, information, or financial assistance related to COVID-19.

• Hang up on robocalls. Don't press any numbers or answer any questions.

• Do NOT respond to texts, emails, or calls about checks from the government. No one will call or text you to verify the information before "releasing" funds; this is a scam.

• Watch out for phishing emails and text messages. Don't click on links from sources you don't know or emails/texts you aren't expecting to receive.

• Research before you donate. Don't let anyone rush you into a donation. Be cautious if you're feeling pressured to share information or make a payment immediately. Never donate in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money. Get tips on giving wisely at ftc.gov/charity.

• To report COVID-19 related scam in Santa Cruz County should contact the District Attorney's Office by calling (831)454-2050 or at http://datinternet.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/…/ConsumerProtection… or the police department.

Santa Cruz Police Department shares COVID -19 Scam Alert public service announcement in English and Spanish at www.SantaCruzPolice.com, SCPD YouTube and, cityofsantacruz.com/coronavirus. 

For more information on coronavirus related scams, you can visit ftc.gov/coronavirus. You can report online and email scams to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-382-4357 or visit the FTC website at consumer.ftc.gov.

For current information on the City of Santa Cruz's response to COVID-19, visit cityofsantacruz.com/coronavirus.

El Departamento de Policía de Santa Cruz alerta al público sobre las estafas relacionadas con la crisis de COVID-19.  Los estafadores continúan aprovechándose de ésta crisis para defraudar a los consumidores

𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎 𝐄𝐍 𝐄𝐒𝐏𝐀Ñ𝐎𝐋 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐈𝐃𝐎 on SCPD YouTube

El Departamento de Policía de Santa Cruz recomiemnda al público estar alerta sobre los estafadores y sus engaños. Con frecuencia los estafadores pretender ser miembros del gobierno o negocios como bancos o empresas de servicios, o intentan establecer relaciones amigables con sus víctimas, con el fin de obtener dinero, información personal, o accesso a sus hogares.

El Departamento de Policía de Santa Cruz aconseja observar las siguientes recomendaciones:
-Ignore ofertas de vacunas o tests de pruebas caseros, pues los estafadores están vendiendo productos ficticios para tratar or prevenir el COVID-19. Sospeche de mensajes de texto o correo electrónico que ofrezcan curas, información o asistencia financiera relacionada con COVID-19.

-Cuelgue el teléfono, o no conteste cuando reciba llamadas indeseadas, y no presione ninguna tecla en su teléfono.

-No responda a llamadas telefónicas, mensajes de texto o correo electrónico relacionados con cheques del gobierno. El estado nunca le llamará para confirmar su información antes de desembolsar fondos.

-Esté alerta sobre mensajes de texto o de correo electrónico que intenten obtener sus datos personales, y nunca acceda a ningún vínculo o dirección de Internet recibidos de personas desconocidas.

-Antes de hacer cualquier donación, investigue su proveniencia y destino, y no se deje presionar de quienes las solicitan. Nunca done dinero en efectivo, mediante tarjetas prepagads o de regalo, o mediante transferencias bancarias.

Para mas informació sobre como donar seguramente acceda a la página Internet de la Comisión Federal de Comercio (FTC): ftc.gov/charity.

El Departamento de Policía de Santa Cruz comparte sus alertas públicas sobre las estafas de COVID -19 en inglés y español a través de las redes sociales: www.SantaCruzPolice.com, SCPD YouTube y cityofsantacruz.com/coronavirus

Para obtener información actualizada de la respuesta de la Ciudad de Santa Cruz a la crisis de COVID-19, visite la siguiente página en Internet: cityofsantacruz.com/coronavirus.

Para información adicional sobre las estafas relacionadas con el coronavirus, visite la la página Internet que la Comisión Federal de Comercio (FTC) ha creado para éste fin: ftc.gov/coronavirus.

Usted puede reportar éstas estafas llamando a la Comisión Federal de Comercio (FTC) a 1-877-382-4357 or visitando su página en Internet: consumer.ftc.gov.

SCPD to Host Burglary Crime Prevention Presentation April 9 on Facebook Live

Keeping Stores Safe from Burglaries in the
Time of the Coronavirus

The Santa Cruz Police Department is hosting a "virtual presentation" via Facebook Live for local businesses on Thursday, 4/9/2020, at 3:00 pm designed to help shop owners protect their business from burglary crime.

 With many companies closed due to COVID-19, cities everywhere are seeing an uptick in commercial burglaries. SCPD has increased patrol enforcement, made arrests, and seen success with Burglar Suppression Units. We are also offering this free webinar to educate the community on crime prevention to protect against commercial burglary.

Chief Andrew Mills and Sergeant Carter Jones will outline critical ways businesses can cut liability risks, apply security tactics, improve the environmental design, and best practices to thwart opportunistic thieves.

Chief Mills is also waiving false alarm fees during this public health crisis. Learn about the most effective equipment and resources to protect against commercial burglary.

Presentation will stream live on SCPD Facebook.
Thursday, April 9
3:00 – 4:00 pm

Submit questions in advance by email to askSCPD@cityofsantacruz.com

Recorded webinar and presentation materials will be made available www.SantaCruzPolice.com

COVID 19 Santa Cruz Responds: Mass Gatherings

Mass Gatherings Dangerous for Health of Our Community

The situation photographed yesterday of people at the clock tower for a rally is being addressed.

Gathering in large groups is reckless, irresponsible, and is a crime SCPD will enforce.

Chief Mills shares details here: https://chiefmills.com/…/03/24/covid-19-santa-cruz-responds/

#COVID19 #CommonSense #SocialDistancing

The More You Know... Enforcement of Shelter in Place Order -Essential Services - Connect to #COVID-19 Info

SCPD reiterates that the current Shelter at Home order IS IN EFFECT. The County Health Officer issued the mandate requiring people to stay home except for essential needs. It is not a recommendation; it is a directive.

SCPD, along with all county, law enforcement agencies, will be taking a practical approach to the enforcement of this order by focusing on education and awareness of the regulations surrounding the order to obtain voluntary compliance.

Officers will contact local businesses to give direction and anticipate voluntary compliance from community members. The order is enforceable under California Health and Safety Code 120295. Businesses that do not provide "essential" services are required to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for the safety of their workers and the public.
     
Santa Cruz Police Chief Andy Mills said that officers would be looking to educate people, not to make arrests. "Law enforcement is the last resort to obtain compliance; however, the public must understand the dire consequences. We intend to adhere to the goal of keeping people safe."

This the situation is unprecedented, and unlike anything, we've experienced before. The City of Santa Cruz's highest priority is the health and safety of our community. Maintaining law and order is the Santa Police Department's focus, and we are prepared and staffed to provide essential public safety services.

While we appreciate your confidence in our Department, all virus related questions should be directed to 2-1-1, or text coronavirus to 211211, or visit www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus and NOT to our Dispatchers.

We ask that the public NOT to call 9-1-1 to report potential County Order violations. Instead, call the non-emergency line 831-471-1131, Visit www.santacruzpolice.com to file a report online so that our Dispatchers may continue to handle emergency calls. Anonymous callers can leave a message on the Crime Tip Line voicemail at 831-420-5995.

The Santa Cruz County Public Health Department has also created a list of Frequently Asked Questions about the County Order visit www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus.

For more information and updates on how the City of Santa Cruz is monitoring the Coronavirus Disease 2019, visit our website at www.cityofsantacruz.com/coronavirus to stay informed. General updates also posted to SCPD, SCFD, and City of Santa Cruz social media accounts.

Shelter In Place - The BASICS: All community members should stay home except to:

- Perform essential duties for business continuity or government functions
- To get food
- Care for a relative or friend
- Get necessary health care
- Or, perform activities related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this time.

Vulnerable populations-especially the elderly and those with underlying health conditions-must stay home.

It is OK to go outside for walks if you are not in a group and practice proper social distancing.

Essential services and places will remain open, such as:

- City/County government services (i.e., Police, Fire, Utility Companies, Transportation)
- Gas Stations
- Pharmacies
- Places to get food/drinks (Grocery stores, Food banks, convenience stores, takeout & delivery restaurants)
- Banks
- Laundromats
- Cemeteries
- Hardware stores/plumbers/electricians and those who provide necessary goods & services for residences.

MEDIA RELEASE: Santa Cruz Police Make Operational Adjustments In Response To COVID-19

As part of a continued, proactive approach towards slowing the spread of the novel Coronavirus, the Santa Cruz Police Department (SCPD) implements the following preventative operational protocols.

For SCPD to continue to provide the highest level of safety and service and preserve the health of both police personnel and members of the community, the front lobby of the Santa Cruz Police Department is closed until further notice. "We are implementing the following safety measures and we ask that our community members abide to help protect our police officers and support personnel, so they, in turn, can continue to work hard to protect you," said Chief Mills.

The safety and well-being of our personnel are paramount and necessary to continue to provide emergency services for the community. Therefore, we are temporarily adopting response measures to help ensure everyone's health.

• All requests to obtain police reports can be made via phone ONLY. You can call Records at 831-420-5870.
• Officers may ask to speak with complainants outdoors when possible. We will try and keep a distance of 5-6 feet.
• Officers will have the discretion to handle some complaints by phone.
• Some thefts, frauds, or minor incidents (that are not in progress) may be triage over the phone and determined if an additional in-person response is needed.
• Written statements can be emailed to officers.
• Individuals who are 290 registrants and required by law to check-in with law enforcement.
• Property Release hours are Tuesdays 11 am - 3 pm and Thursday 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm

If you require police assistance while at the SCPD building, utilize the intercom phone located next to the main entrance doors to speak with a dispatch operator.

If you can avoid having to summon a police officer, please do so. If your issue can wait, then please hold until this health crisis is over.

If calling for police services while experiencing flu-like symptoms, fever, or respiratory distress, please notify the dispatch operators, so first responders can take any necessary safety precautions before their arrival.

As a reminder, you can file many crime reports online, and we encourage citizens to utilize the online reporting system. General business items will postpone until the immediacy of this crisis subsides.

We apologize for any inconvenience these adjustments may cause. You can support our police, rangers, community service officers, and professional staff by following the above guidelines.

For emergencies, dial 9-1-1. Non-emergency incidents, call 831-471-1131, Visit www.santacruzpolice.com to file a report online.

SCPD remains committed to ensuring the safety of our community while also being mindful of this quickly evolving health crisis.

MEDIA RELEASE: Joint Statement from the Santa Cruz Police and Fire Department Regarding COVID-19

SCPD and SCFD are working with our city, county, state, and federal partners to provide you with the most up-to-date information as it pertains to the #Coronavirus.

As COVID-19 continues to spread in our community, residents of the City of Santa Cruz can be assured public safety agencies have thoroughly prepared to address issues as they arise and have thoughtfully prepared contingency plans to manage the potential exponential growth of this disease. Police, Fire, and EMS are diligently working together, and are in constant communication with the County Department of Public Health, the City Manager’s Office, and our colleagues throughout the county and state. We are prepared to continue to respond to calls for police and fire services, as well as managing the effect of COVID-19 within Santa Cruz.

As we prepare operational plans, we are mindful that COVID-19 will disproportionately and adversely impact our front line operations personnel. We must protect them from exposure to provide continued service to the community. The very nature of their job dictates that they interact with people who have compromised immune systems or are actively sick with COVID-19. To minimize exposure to our personnel, and to the public, we have implemented the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), thorough decontamination protocols, and triage of calls to maintain the ability to respond for the most serious of incidents.

Finally, should multiple officers and firefighters become exposed and quarantined, our remaining dedicated staff is prepared to work. Plans for maintaining staffing to provide the most critical of our public safety missions are in place. Staffing may be adjusted, and response modified, but rest assured we will respond to aid those in need and to maintain law and order.

Andrew G. Mills, Chief of Police | Jason Hajduk, Fire Chief

Santa Cruz County residents are strongly urged to take measures to protect themselves, their families, and their community. For local information, residents may visit www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus,  call 211 or text “coronavirus” to 211211.

For the latest information on coronavirus in California, http://cdph.ca.gov/covid19

Town Hall Meetings Postponed Due to COVID-19 Concerns

The Town Hall meetings scheduled for this week on March 9, 11, and 12 are postponed. The Santa Cruz Police Department is continuously monitoring the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and determined it is prudent to defer the meetings. The decision to cancel was based on the latest update from the Santa Cruz County Health Department.

We recognize that the timing of this decision has inconvenienced many of you. However, this decision was made out of deep concern for the community.

Santa Cruz Police Department will be rescheduling the meetings at a future date.

Santa Cruz Police to Host Three Public Safety Town Hall Meetings To Address Quality of Life Issues

Santa Cruz Police Invites Community Input on Proposed

Quality of Life Ordinances

Public Safety Town Hall Meetings on March 9, 11 and 12

The Santa Cruz Police Department will host three Town Hall meetings in March to get feedback from residents on the proposed Public Safety Quality of Life Ordinance Package. The town hall series takes place on: 

Monday, March 9 at Delaveaga Elementary School
1145 Morrissey Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

Wednesday, March 11 at Louden Nelson Community Center
301 Center St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Thursday, March 12 at Peace United Church
900 High Street, CA 95060

Each session takes place from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. The meeting is an opportunity for citizens to meet with Chief Mills and command staff. We will discuss citywide public safety, an overview of police initiatives, and quality of life issues affecting neighborhoods.

Community engagement is essential in the development of the proposed Quality of Life Ordinance Package. Feedback is encouraged and sought from residents during the entire process.

To learn more about the proposed ordinances, including the opportunity to leave comments, questions, and suggestions, visit www.cityofsantacruz.com/PoliceTownHall.

Chief Mills Town Hall meetings are part of the Santa Cruz Police Department's efforts to promote citizen involvement in keeping with the City of Santa Cruz's commitment to transparency in every aspect of City government.

You Are Not Alone

Do you know any seniors in town that could benefit from regular check in’s? Our "You Are Not Alone," aka YANA program, is a FREE service that allows older and disabled adults to have comfort and security in the knowledge that vetted SCPD Volunteers are checking in on them regularly. 

SCPD Volunteers are proud to offer this helpful resource for seniors who enjoy living independently, but do not have friends or family available to check on them regularly. 🌸 We love our YANA families. 

To qualify, the YANA client must reside in the City of Santa Cruz. For more info, contact SCPD Volunteer headquarters at 831-420-5916, email scpdvolunteers@cityofsantacruz.com, or visit SCPD You Are Not Alone webpage. 

SCPD volunteers, also known as V.I.P.S. (Volunteers in Police Service), are far more than extra eyes and ears for the department. They spend countless community service hours by improving the quality of life for residents and visitors to the City of Santa Cruz. If you’re interested in volunteering, please visit, Volunteer with SCPD. 

SCPD is dedicated to our community with ongoing efforts to keep Santa Cruz a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.

Citizen’s Tip Leads To DUI Driver & Arrest of Wanted Felon with Loaded Gun

On Sunday, February 9, 2020, at approximately 5:30 pm, Santa Cruz Police responded to a report from a concerned citizen about a reckless and suspected DUI driver in the area of Seabright Avenue and Murray Street. A patrol unit caught up to the suspects' black Ford Mustang near Broadway and San Lorenzo Blvd. The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop; the driver pulled over, and as the officer exited the patrol car, the driver sped away.

The officer pursued the suspect going eastbound on Broadway. The brief car pursuit ended when the driver of the Ford Mustang struck several parked cars and a street sign at Riverside and Soquel Ave. The driver then fled on foot to the east levee towards San Lorenzo Park. A male passenger in the car sustained a leg injury.

Christopher Dicochea

Within minutes, an officer located the suspect running in San Lorenzo Park. Two SCPD Rangers patrolling the park quickly and safely detained him. The driver, Christopher Dicochea, 23 years from Salinas, is wanted for robbery out of Salinas and has a DUI warrant from Morgan Hill. Mr. Dicochea, a convicted felon, also had a loaded and stolen 9MM handgun in his center console.

The passenger in the car was cooperative and later released. However, Christopher Dicochea was arrested and taken to jail for the following charges: evading an officer, felon in possession of a firearm, vehicle hit and run involving injury, DUI causing injury, possession of stolen property, outstanding warrant for robbery and warrant for driving under the influence.

SCPD would like to give a great shout of thanks to the community member who called to report the reckless driving of the suspect. AWESOME follow through on this community member’s part. Thank You!

Please continue to contact SCPD when suspicious activity occurs in your neighborhood. SCPD is dedicated to our community with ongoing efforts to keep Santa Cruz a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.

LATINO COMMUNITY MEETING on Feb 11 to discuss neighborhood gun violence. SCPD Engages, Protects & Serves ALL Communities in the City of Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Police Department, in partnership with Nueva Vista Community Resources, hosts a community meeting to discuss the uptick in gun violence against members of the Latino community in the City of Santa Cruz. The event takes place on Tuesday, February 11th, from 6:00 – 7:30 at the Nueva Vista Community Center / Beach Flats location at 133 Leibrandt Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

Chief Mills and staff will share information about deploying license plate reader (LPR) technology to combat the current gun violence crime trend in the Latino community. LPR technology brings with it the concern of privacy that the Santa Cruz Police Department takes seriously.

Meet the officers working the recent shooting investigations and answering any questions about police practices. Santa Cruz Police Department is committed to working with the community, bringing awareness and preventive measures to enhance public safety.

Bilingual presentation. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions about public safety issues of importance to the Latino community.

Reunión con la comunidad Latina el 11 de febrero 

El Departamento de Policía de Santa Cruz, junto con los Recursos Comunitarios Nueva Vista, llevará a cabo una reunión comunitaria para discutir el tema de la seguridad pública. El énfasis de la reunión será el aumento en crímenes violentos cometidos con armas de fuego, y perpetrados contra la comunidad latina de la ciudad de Santa Cruz. La reunión tendrá lugar el día martes, febrero 11 de 2020 entre las 6:00 PM y las 7:30 PM en el Centro Comunitario Nueva Vista del barrio Beach Flats, ubicado en la 133 Leibrandt Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

El Jefe de policía Andrew Mills y su equipo darán información sobre el despliegue de la tecnología “LPR”, que permite identificar placas de vehículos para combatir el incremento en la violencia que afecta a la comunidad Latina. El Departamento de Policía de Santa Cruz toma muy en serio los aspectos de privacidad que la tecnología “LPR” conlleva.

Durante ésta reunión usted podrá platicar con los oficiales que han investigado crímenes violentos ocurridos recientemente, y podrá hacer preguntas sobre procedimientos policiales.

El Departamento de Policía de Santa Cruz está comprometido a colaborar con la comunidad, mediante la implementación de medidas que incrementen la seguridad.

Durante ésta presentación bilingüe se urge a los participantes a que compartan sus preguntas sobre problemas de seguridad pública que afectan a la comunidad Latina.

All Welcome to the MLK March For The Dream 2020 Santa Cruz

Chief Mills invites everyone to share in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s inspirational message of peace, justice and community. March For The Dream on Monday, January 20, 2020.

Together, the NAACP Santa Cruz County Branch and the Santa Cruz Police Department presents the Santa Cruz MLK Day March. It is going to be an extraordinary event. We invite individuals and community groups/clubs/congregations to walk with us in the march in honor of Dr. King.

MLK March Schedule
9:00 am - 10:00 am Marcher Lineup at Cathcart between Cedar Street and Pacific Avenue. Groups check-in & meet up. Individual marchers welcome.

10:00 am Official March start time. The route starts on Cathcart Street and Pacific Avenue moves along to Maples Street and ends at the Louden Nelson Community Center.

11:00 am Louden Nelson Community Center for a dynamic line up of speaker and resource fair.

Large groups who are marching together should RSVP the group name, an estimated number of people, and submit a participation form. We will follow up with group staging and line up information before the event. 

“The MLK Day March is family-friendly, inspiring, and collaborative, said Chief Mills. It’s also an opportunity for the businesses, social and community groups that make this city strong to come out and be recognized while supporting a common cause.”

\

Above 3 photos credit Samuel Torres Jr

Event details are available online or the NAACP Santa Cruz Facebook page. For more information, please call 831- 420-5844 or 831-429-2266.

Officers Honored Today with Chief Steve Belcher Award & Employee of the Month Award - SCPD PROUD

Congratulations, Sgt Jones & Ofc Becerra honored today for reflecting the highest skills and consistent quality performance as professional SCPD police officers.

Chief Steve Belcher Award

Steve Belcher, Sgt Jones & Chief Mills
Sgt Carter Jones received the premier Steve Belcher Award given to the person who most exemplifies the high ideas of Chief Steve Belcher. Chief Belcher was responsible for bringing problem-oriented and community policing to Santa Cruz. Belcher's forward-thinking and thoughtful leadership 1994 -2003 made the Santa Cruz Police Department an organization to be admired as a leader in policing.

Carter Jones is this year's recipient of the Steve Belcher award. Sergeant Jones has demonstrated, through his engaging personality, that police officers can have a positive impact on the community served. Sergeant Jones has comported himself in a professional manner that demonstrates his leadership in the area of community policing and problem-solving.

"TRUE BEAT COP" Officer Becerra Awarded Top Cop of the Month

DC Martinez, DC Flippo, PO Becerra & Chief Mills
Congratulations to Officer Juan Becerra, SCPD's November Employee of the Month. Officer Becerra made a sexual battery arrest and two burglary arrests this month in addition to his many other duties. More importantly, he followed up on the crimes obtaining confessions from the suspects.

Juan exhibits a positive, calm demeanor were not much riles him. He is quick and proactive, as demonstrated in a recent arrest, where he obtained a photo from surveillance cameras on the way to the call, looked at the suspect, and spotted him away from the scene. After the arrest, Juan was able to return the victim's property the same day.

A Neighborhood Policing Sergeant said it best, Juan is a "true beat cop, who knows his beat and works every day to better the quality of life in his area of service."

Thank you for your dedication to duty, outstanding service, and sincere desire to improve the Santa Cruz Police Department. PO Becerra November 2019 SCPD Employee of the Month! 

Deputy Chief Martinez To Retire After 30 Years of Service

Santa Cruz Police Deputy Chief Rick Martinez announces retirement after 30 years of service. He will be honored at a community event on December 18, 2019.

The public is invited to a community celebration of Deputy Chief Rick Martinez, who is retiring December 19 after a 30-year career with the Santa Cruz Police Department.

Deputy Chief Martinez's retirement reception is scheduled to begin at 4:00 pm a day earlier, on December 18, at the Santa Cruz Police Department community room. The program will include remarks from elected officials and invited community leaders.

"As police leaders, we work in a challenging environment, but we also have great opportunities to impact our community positively. Santa Cruz has been very fortunate to have Deputy Chief Martinez on our SCPD executive team," Police Chief Andy Mills said. "This send-off event is a great opportunity for the Santa Cruz community to come out and say Thank You for what Rick has done for our department and our city."

Martinez started his career with the City of Santa Cruz in the summer of 1989, working as a Beach Ranger/Park Ranger for the Parks and Recreation Department. In that capacity, he was asked to help as a first responder on October 17, 1989, following the destructive Loma Prieta Earthquake. His initial earthquake response was in rescue operations before he transitioned into a law enforcement role.

Martinez started his career with the Santa Cruz Police Department, serving as a Reserve Police Officer, in 1990. A year later, he was hired as a Police Officer.

Martinez was assigned to the Investigations Section as Detective in 1995 and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2000, to the rank of Lieutenant in 2004, and to the rank of Deputy Chief in 2010. He has worked in patrol, neighborhood services, investigations, professional standards, police administration, and was one of the first commanders of the Emergency Services Unit.

Deputy Chief Martinez believes strongly in the Community Oriented Policing model and has spent hundreds of hours each year meeting with community members, business owners, and elected officials to address core issues impacting the City of Santa Cruz. As the commander of the Downtown Unit, he drafted key policies relating to high-risk alcohol outlets. He also spearheaded a block-by-block communication model to provide residents and business owners with direct access to local government resources.

During his years with the department, Deputy Chief Martinez has taught safety classes to local students, worked as a liaison to the Commission for the Prevention of Violence against Women, provided gang training information to local schools, and has taught sections of the citizen's police academy. He was also instrumental in the development and implementation of the department's mobile phone app, establishing policies and procedures related to mental health outreach in the field, developing a collaborative Mental Health Liaison pilot program, and implementing a crisis intervention team model.

He currently serves as a Board Member and is a past Board Chair of the Board of Directors of the Central Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross, co-chairs the north county BASTA Operations Team (Broad-based Apprehension, Suppression, and Treatment Alternatives), is a member of the Smart Solutions to Homelessness Leadership Council, and is part of the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce Community Affairs Committee. He is a past Board Member for the Santa Cruz County Mental Health Advisory Board and Women's Crisis Support of Santa Cruz County.

Martinez has earned a number of awards: the Law Enforcement Community Hero Award in 2010, the Clara Barton Award for Meritorious Volunteer Leadership in 2017, and a Lifesaving Award from Red Cross Headquarters in Washington, D.C. in 2019. Chief Mills also awarded him a Lifesaving award for the same action related to an incident at a homeless camp in the city late last year.

"I am both honored and appreciative of the opportunity to have worked with our community and the men and women of the Santa Cruz Police Department," Martinez said. "I retire knowing the department is poised not just to keep Santa Cruz safe, but continue to grow and serve with professionalism."

Deputy Chief Martinez's "Final Radio Call" and "Honorary Walk Out" will take place on December 19, 2019.

Coffee With A Cop TOMORROW Wednesday, October 2nd Starbucks 1901 Mission Street 9:30 am -10:30 am

National Coffee with a Cop Day is tomorrow and SCPD hopes you’ll join us on Wednesday, October 2nd from 9:30 - 10:30 am. Building relationships one cup at a time. Community members are invited to sit down with our officers and enjoy a free cup of coffee! Drop by to say hello and grab a cup of joe to go!

Community, conversation, and coffee with Santa Cruz Police at Starbucks 1901 Mission Street, Wednesday, October 2, 2019, 9:30 am -10:30 am All ages welcome.

A special thanks to Starbucks for hosting this community event

The Coffee with a Cop program brings community members and police together in informal, neutral venues to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee.