Pasadena Police Department (California)

Pasadena Police Department (California)
Name	Pasadena Police Department
Motto	"Pride, Professionalism, Service"
Formed	1886
Jurisdiction	Pasadena, California
Country	United States
Legaljuris	Municipal police
Headquarters	207 North Garfield Avenue, Pasadena, CA
Chief	Eugene Harris
Sworntype	Police officer
Sworn	241 (2023)
Civiliantype	Professional staff
Civilian	120 (2023)
Aircraft1type	Helicopter
Aircraft1	Bell 206L-4
Website	https://www.cityofpasadena.net/police/

Pasadena Police Department (California). The Pasadena Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city of Pasadena, California. Established in 1886, it operates under the leadership of Chief Eugene Harris and is responsible for policing a diverse population of over 138,000 residents. The department is organized into several bureaus and provides a full range of police services, from patrol and investigations to specialized units like the SWAT team and a mounted unit.

History

The department was founded in 1886, just one year after the incorporation of Pasadena, with its first marshal, Lafayette H. Riddle, appointed to maintain order in the growing Los Angeles County community. Throughout the early 20th century, the agency evolved from a marshal's office into a modern police force, navigating periods of significant growth and societal change in the San Gabriel Valley. Key historical events include its response to the Great Depression and the Zoot Suit Riots, as well as its role during the civil rights era. The department moved into its current headquarters at the Pasadena Civic Center complex in the late 20th century, consolidating its operations into a modern facility.

Organization and structure

The department is led by the Chief of Police, who reports to the City Manager and the Pasadena City Council. It is divided into several major bureaus: the Patrol Bureau, which handles primary response and includes the Mounted Unit and Air Operations Section; the Investigations Bureau, encompassing units for Homicide, Robbery, and Special Victims; and the Administrative Services Bureau. Specialized divisions include the SWAT team, a Hostage Negotiation Team, and the Forensic Services Section. The department also maintains a partnership with the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Services and operations

Core services include 24-hour patrol, criminal investigation, and traffic enforcement. Specialized operations are conducted by the Air Operations Section using a Bell 206L-4 helicopter and the Mounted Unit for crowd control during major events like the Tournament of Roses Parade and the Rose Bowl Game. The department's Real-Time Crime Center utilizes technology for intelligence-led policing, while its Community Policing Section focuses on problem-solving in specific neighborhoods. Other key functions include a Youth Services Section and participation in multi-agency task forces with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

Notable incidents and controversies

The department has been involved in several high-profile incidents, including the 2009 officer-involved shooting of Leroy Barnes, which sparked community protests and a review of use-of-force policies. Its handling of protests following the death of George Floyd in 2020 drew scrutiny from the American Civil Liberties Union and led to an independent review. Earlier controversies include allegations of racial profiling in the 1990s, which resulted in a settlement and mandated reforms. The department's actions during the 1992 Los Angeles riots were also extensively analyzed for their role in maintaining order in Pasadena.

Equipment and facilities

Officers are typically equipped with Glock pistols, expandable batons, and Taser conducted electrical weapons. Patrol vehicles are primarily Ford Police Interceptor Utility models, and the fleet includes specialized units for the SWAT team and K-9 unit. The department operates from its main headquarters at 207 North Garfield Avenue, part of the Civic Center complex, which houses the Communications Center, evidence processing labs, and training facilities. The Air Operations Section is based at the Pasadena Municipal Airport.

Community relations and outreach

The department engages in numerous outreach programs, including the Police Athletic League and the Citizens Police Academy. It regularly participates in community events like National Night Out and maintains formal liaison roles with groups such as the NAACP Pasadena Branch. The Youth Services Section runs programs in local schools, including the Pasadena Unified School District. Following periods of tension, the department has worked with the Pasadena City Council and the Office of Independent Review to implement reforms aimed at improving transparency and building public trust.

Category:Law enforcement agencies in California Category:Pasadena, California Category:Police departments in Los Angeles County, California