Former police chief, POA president endorse Carrie Uva for City Council

DOWNEY – Downey City Council District 4 candidate Carrie Uva has received endorsements from former Downey Police Chief Leslie Murray and former Downey Police Corporal and Downey Police Officers Association President Mike Pope, according to a campaign announcement released this week.

The endorsements come as Uva campaigns to represent District 4, which covers northeast Downey.

In the announcement, Murray cited Uva’s long history of community involvement and professional experience as reasons for his support.

“As a former Chief of Police for the City of Downey, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals over the course of my career who were committed to improving our community,” Murray said. “Few have demonstrated the long-term dedication, professionalism, and integrity that I have seen in Carrie.

“I have known Carrie for approximately 20 years and have watched firsthand her commitment to the residents and businesses of Downey. As both a respected local attorney and successful real estate professional, she brings a unique combination of legal knowledge, business experience, and practical understanding of the issues facing our city today.

“Downey needs leadership that is thoughtful, accessible, and focused on balancing public safety, economic growth, and quality of life for our residents. Carrie understands the importance of maintaining safe neighborhoods, supporting local businesses, and ensuring responsible development that protects the character of our community.

“Throughout the years, I have found Carrie to be someone who listens carefully, treats people with respect, and approaches challenges with professionalism and common sense. Those qualities are essential in a Council Member who must work collaboratively to move our city forward. I am proud to endorse Carrie for Downey City Council and strongly encourage our residents to support her in this election.”

Pope, a lifelong Downey resident who served the Downey Police Department for more than three decades and led the Police Officers Association for 10 years, also endorsed Uva.

“Having served the City of Downey for over 31 years from a Police Explorer to POA President, I know exactly what it takes to protect and bring this community together,” Pope said. “Carrie has always been a true partner to our Downey police officers, and she is the clear choice to ensure our neighborhoods remain safe, strong, and united.”

Uva said she was honored to receive the support of the two former law enforcement leaders.

“Receiving the backing of Chief Murray and Corporal Pope is an incredible honor,” Uva said. “Public safety is the foundation of everything we want to achieve in District 4—from vibrant neighborhood business corridors to secure parks and residential streets. Having the confidence of the men and women who have commanded and led our local police department proves that our campaign has the right vision to keep Downey safe, stable, and prosperous.”

According to the campaign, Uva is a lifelong Downey resident, attorney and real estate professional whose platform focuses on public safety, fiscal responsibility and neighborhood representation.

The election for Downey City Council District 4 is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.