The Signal Hill City Council approved an employment contract for the newest interim police chief Tuesday night.
Interim Police Chief Jon Arnold has done police work for over 40 years, including 30 years with the Huntington Beach Police Department and 10 years as chief of police at Coast Community College. Arnold earned a Bachelors of Science in criminology from Cal State Long Beach and a Masters of Science in Business Management from Cal State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
“You had a great interview, and we’re excited to have you here,” Mayor Tina Hansen said.
Signal Hill has operated without a permanent police chief since the former one, Christopher Nunley, retired in 2021. After Nunley’s retirement, Signal Hill hired interim police chief Carl Charles, who served from Nov. 15, 2021 until Feb. 3, 2023.
Since Feb. 3, Acting Police Captain Kelli Crigler has provided oversight for the police department.
Signal Hill is still searching for a permanent police chief. Arnold will hold the interim position until one is hired.
Since Arnold is a retired police chief, the California Public Employees’ Retirement System allows him to work up to 960 hours a year.
After a permanent police chief is hired, Arnold will continue working with the police department in a management support role to help with the transition.
“I’m honored to be here, to be selected to serve as your interim chief of police for the city,” Arnold said.
