A new Chief of Police has been appointed to the National City Police Department, the office of the city of National City announced Monday.
San Diego Police Department veteran Manuel Rodriguez will now serve as Chief of Police for National City, overseeing the department’s budget and staff, which includes 80 sworn officers.
According to the city office, Chief Rodriguez spent 20 years with the SDPD before joining the National City Police Department in 2005.
During his time on the force, he has served as a Sergeant in the Criminal Intellegence Unit, a Service Area Lieutenant and a Special Assistant to the Chief of Police. He was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police for National City in 2007.
Chief Rodriguez is also a founding member and former president of the National Latino Police Officers Association San Diego Metro Chapter. In 2008, he received a “Lifetime Membership Award” from the association.
Chief Rodriguez’s new role is effective immediately.
He released the following statement following his appointment as Chief of Police:
“I am extremely honored and excited to continue to work with a wonderful community and elected leaders who constantly strive to increase the quality of life for the National City community and lead a team of professional law enforcement members who are talented, committed, caring and responsive.”
Meanwhile, National City Mayor Ron Morrison says the city is thrilled to have a National City native take over the important position.
“We have a unique opportunity to hire within our own ranks so that it’s not only a person who is deeply familiar with our Police Department but also one who grew up in our City. This is truly a person who is homegrown.” said Mayor Morrison in a statement released Monday.
Photo Credit: City of National City