“Over his 29 years on the force, Robert Luna has gone above and beyond the call of duty,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “He has demonstrated an abiding love for the City of Long Beach, its people, and its diverse neighborhoods. He is at the vanguard of policing and represents a diverse citizenry and leadership that make us all stronger.”
City Manager Pat West appointed Luna to the position on Tuesday Nov. 11. Over the course of his career at the Long Beach Police Department, Luna has served in a variety of roles, including 13 years on the executive management team and most recently serving as deputy chief of police. Los Angeles County Sheriff-Elect Jim McDonnell, whom Luna is replacing, will provide welcoming remarks, and Garcia and West will also speak during the ceremony.
“Chief Luna’s dedication to the police department and the entire community is impressive,” West said. “I am positive that he will hold himself and the police department to the highest standards, and I look forward to celebrating his appointment.”
Luna holds a master’s degree in public policy and administration, and a bachelor’s of science, both from California State University, Long Beach. He is a graduate of: Harvard University’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government program; the Delinquency Control Institute (DCI) at the University of Southern California; and the FBI’s National Executive Institute and National Academy.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to give back and serve the community that has given so much to me,” Luna said. “The community is our greatest asset, and I want to make clear the police department will be as visible, accessible, responsive and transparent as possible. I look forward to being sworn in with my family, friends, colleagues and the community present.”
McDonnell’s term of service ends Nov. 21.
Source: City of LB
