Berkeley Police Chief Announces Retirement

BERKELEY, CA — Berkeley Police Chief Andrew R. Greenwood announced his retirement earlier this week, a memo from the city’s top administrator confirmed in a memo.

The lifelong Berkeley resident’s 35-year stint on the force will end March 12 according to City Manager Dee Williams-Ridley’s memo.

Greenwood has served as the city’s Top Cop for just under four years, The East Bay Times reports.

Capt. Jen Louis will take over as interim chief.

The city will conduct a national search for his replacement.

The news of Greenwood stepping down was first reported by Berkeleyside.

“The time has come for me to focus on my family and our health, and give long overdue attention to our home,” Greenwood wrote in an email to staff announcing his retirement obtained by Berkeleyside.

Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin thanked the outgoing chief for his service in a Twitter thread.

"I have gotten to know the Chief personally over the past five years, and was impressed by his management of very challenging events including a series of unpermitted events in 2017 organized by hate groups," Arreguin said.

"Throughout this time, he handled these moments with professionalism and focus. He has provided stable leadership and has focused on increasing staffing and implementing groundbreaking reforms.

"He will be missed."