After 31 years of service to the city of Manhattan Beach, Chief of Police Derrick Abell has announced his retirement, effective December 18, 2021. This announcement marks the culmination of his 33-year career in law enforcement services.

Abell has served as Manhattan Beach chief of police since 2018, overseeing approximately 108 employees and managing all police department operations and programs. He has developed and provided oversight to the department’s Strategic Plan by enhancing communications with the community, implementing proactive strategies to reduce crime, and promoting career development and training. In addition, he has embraced new technologies, modern practices, and innovative methods of policing and prioritized police officer morale and well-being.

“Chief Abell has spent his career in public safety in Manhattan Beach as a model of professionalism and dedication,” said Mayor Hildy Stern in a statement. “His compassionate approach to understanding our community, the collaborative way he extends himself to developing partnerships, and his support of citywide initiatives has certainly strengthened the Manhattan Beach Police Department. We are incredibly fortunate to have had Chief Abell's dedication to our community for all these years.”

Beginning his career in Manhattan Beach as a patrol officer in 1991, Abell rose through the ranks and served the community in various roles, including narcotics detective, SWAT team commander, police sergeant, and administration division captain. In 1999, his peers and subordinates selected him as the “Officer of the Year” for his hard work, dedication, and accomplishments. Additionally, he was an active member of the California Police Chiefs Association Executive Board and Training Committee.

“Chief Abell has been an integral part of the city’s leadership team,” said City Manager Bruce Moe in a statement. “He has led the city’s police department with compassion, integrity and respect. He understands the importance of being part of the community he serves and has fostered strong relationships.”

During his tenure, Abell’s efforts have focused on unbiased policing, transparency, and increasing opportunities for community engagement. Additionally, under his leadership, the police department has increased de-escalation strategies and engaged in a collaborative approach to addressing citywide initiatives such as homelessness, school safety, and implicit bias. He also provided oversight to public safety during large-scale special events such as the Manhattan Beach Open Volleyball Tournament, Holiday Fireworks, and the Old Hometown Fair.

“It has been an honor and privilege to lead the men and women of the Manhattan Beach Police Department and serve the residents of Manhattan Beach," said Abell in a statement. “There is no greater calling than serving others before self, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to serve so many throughout my career. I look forward to ‘paying it forward’ in the next chapter of my life.”

The city will initiate a recruitment process immediately to begin a search for the new chief. Abell has agreed to serve as interim chief until the selection process is complete.