SANTA MONICA – In the wake of the heartbreaking terrorist attack in Manchester and recent suicide bombing in Jakarta, it is crucial to look at how one stays safe in these uncertain times. It is no secret that Santa Monica’s beautiful beaches and fun events attract tourists both near and far, but what does that mean for security, especially on this Memorial Day weekend?

Santa Monica Police Department was unavailable for comment, however, with the addition of thousands of tourists in Santa Monica due to the holiday weekend, an increased police presence is expected.  It is now more important than ever to have strong safety protocols in place to ensure a fun, safe time for everyone. Police are also expected to be even more vigiliget in keeping the community safe in the wake of recent attacks.  Especially because, aside from just the normal influx of visitors on a long weekend, this Sunday, Main Street will also see an influx of guests.  About 1,000 people are expected to flock to MAINopoly on Main Street, an interactive event that boasts fun, food, fundraising and drinking. 

Throughout all the fun it is important that residents and visitors alike remember to remain aware of their surroundings and exercise caution in the crowds. Make sure to report any suspicious activity to the Santa Monica Police Department Headquarters (310) 395-9931.

Photo by Reuters and Santa Monica Beach by Clinton Steeds is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Santa Monica Police Chief Jacqueline Seabrooks has announced her retirement after over three decades of service.  In those years she has made quite an impact, consistently breaking down barriers and creating her own path in both the cities she has served and in California as a whole. 

When she first started her career in 1982 she became Santa Monica’s first African American female police officer.  Then, in 2007, she continued breaking barriers when she became the chief of Inglewood Police Department, making her the state of California’s first ever black female police chief for a municipality.  Additionally, she was the first female to have the top executive position in Inglewood’s over a century long history. 

After several years of service to Inglewood, in 2012, she came back to where it all began and became the police chief of Santa Monica, where she has been ever since.

While serving the community of Santa Monica she has continually worked to improve it.  She has updated the police department’s equipment, improved community and police relations, and helped with restructuring. Additionally, she is a mentor, a public speaker on safety, and is on the board of a variety of organizations around the community. 

A search throughout the nation will occur to find the next police chief. Seabrooks officially retires on September 30th.