After seven years, Santa Cruz bid farewell to Police Chief Howard Skerry and welcomed his replacement, Interim Chief Kevin Vogel. Vogel, a 23-year veteran of the SCPD is assuming the position in difficult times, a fact not lost on him during the ceremony.
After seven years, Santa Cruz bid farewell to Police Chief Howard Skerry and welcomed his replacement, Interim Chief Kevin Vogel. Vogel, a 23-year veteran of the SCPD is assuming the position in difficult times, a fact not lost on him during the ceremony. Outgoing Chief Skerry warned him, “Over the last ten years our numbers have dropped in officers, but the activity has just skyrocketed.” He went on to speak about increasing violence in the city, including gang violence, and how it is affecting the morale of officers and residents alike.
“Yeah, you’re right it’s definitely going to be challenging,” said Vogel, who called on City Council to replace positions that have been lost over the years. He also expressed his hope that there will be even greater citizen involvement in the police force and his intent to advance partnerships with other law enforcement agencies on the state and federal level. One of his top priorities will be getting gang violence under control.
City Council is expected to choose a permanent replacement for Skerry by December. Meanwhile, Skerry will be able to “work on his car, do what he wants, enjoy his day, and not have to stress,” according to his daughter Alexis. After seven difficult years, that sounds like a nice way to spend the day.
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