Santa Cruz police chief to retire on June 2

Santa Cruz police Chief Kevin Vogel will step down on June 2 after 30 years with the department and six as chief, city officials announced Thursday.

Vogel will be retiring after spending his entire law enforcement career with the department.

City manager Martin Bernal said in a statement:

“For 30 years, Kevin served the Santa Cruz community with honor and distinction. He is a model of integrity and professionalism and it has been an honor to work with him.”

Bernal said:

“He epitomizes the values of teamwork, leadership and public service. He has dedicated his career to improving the quality of life in our community and responding to the significant public safety issues faced by cities.”

Bernal will soon start the process to identify the next chief.

Vogel said in a statement:

“It has been a tremendous honor to work alongside the dedicated men and women in the police department, and to serve the Santa Cruz community…I will miss each and every employee.”