DOWNEY – Downey Police Chief Carl Charles officially announced his retirement Wednesday, effective Dec. 5.

“For 28 years it has been my pleasure to serve and protect the residents of Downey as a proud member of the Downey Police Department,” Charles said.

Charles was named chief of police in 2012, becoming the department’s first African-American chief.

“I got into law enforcement with the goal of helping to bridge the perceived disconnect between police and the diverse community we serve, particularly the minority populations,” he said.

Charles was hired as a Downey police officer October 1990 and rose through the ranks, becoming the department’s 10th chief after the retirement of Rick Esteves in December 2012.

His impact as police chief was significant and immediate. Among his list of accomplishments:

Equipping all officers with body-worn cameras
Installing license-plate readers citywide
The creation of 10 new police officer positions
Formation of a homeless outreach team
Improved communication with the public and media, including on social media
Quarterly “coffee with a cop” outreach events
A citizen volunteer program
Reinstitution of K9 and mounted horse programs
Allowing mental health professionals to ride with officers

and citywide active shooter training.

“Within a six-year period, we were able to accomplish a great deal. I believe those accomplishments have positioned the police department to be able to handle future challenges, as police work continues to adapt to the ever-changing landscape,” Charles said.

“I am extremely grateful for the chance to collaborate with our Downey citizens, city departments, and the members of the Downey Police Department as we tirelessly worked to improve the condition of our city,” Charles added.

“While I’ll miss the daily interactions and accomplishments, I know that the police department is well prepared for this transition.”

City officials heaped praise on Charles, praising his leadership and character.

“Chief Charles has led the Downey Police Department with honor, professionalism and respect,” said City Manager Gilbert Livas.

“He will always be remembered as a respected figure in our community who has served this city well and has many accomplishments of which to be proud. We wish him the very best on his retirement.”

Mayor Sean Ashton said Charles’ work had an enduring impact on the Downey community.

“Through his hard work and dedication, Chief Charles has accomplished remarkable things for his department, including building strong community relationships which has helped instill trust between our police officers and the residents we serve.”

Mayor Pro Tem Rick Rodriguez echoed those sentiments.

“His outstanding leadership and his demonstrated ability to work effectively with his officers and the citizens of Downey has taken the Downey Police Department to new levels in protecting and serving the community,” Rodriguez said.

Charles was Downey’s 10th police chief.

He holds a bachelor of arts degree in criminology and corrections from Cal State Northridge and a master of public administration degree from USC.

Downey police chief will retire in December