Darrick Jacob sworn in as new Police Chief

City Manager Oliver Chi appointed Darrick Jacob as Santa Monica's police chief, at the end of last year and Jacob was formerly sworn in at a ceremony today. Jacob, with SMPD since 2004 and acting chief since August 2025, is the first internal candidate chosen in over 40 years. His priorities include crime reduction, homelessness, traffic safety and community engagement, achieving full department staffing.