Meet the People Behind the Badge

Who We Are

Established in 1897, SMPD has over a century of service rooted in community trust, innovation, and professionalism. From its early days patrolling a growing beach town to today’s new technology and specialized units, SMPD has evolved alongside the city. Our officers are partners, protectors, and public servants committed to keeping Santa Monica safe.

A Message from Leadership

Hear from the Chief of Police

At SMPD, our mission is grounded in purpose, transparency, and service. We are committed to building a department that represents and protects the people of Santa Monica with professionalism and care.

A person in a police uniform standing outdoors by a railing, with trees and buildings in the background.

A Santa Monica Police Department badge illustration with skyline
A Santa Monica Police Department badge illustration

Our Mission & Vision

Our Mission

We are dedicated to safeguarding our community by improving quality of life and upholding public trust

Police officer holding a gold Santa Monica badge with intricate design and city emblem in the center

Our Vision

We endeavor to be law enforcement’s benchmark for excellence as we seek to eliminate crime and social disorder in collaboration with our community partners

A smiling officer next to a police vehicle

Community Impact

Committed to Community, Grounded in Service

Service at SMPD extends far beyond emergency response. From youth mentorship programs to neighborhood outreach and community education, our work is rooted in trust, transparency, and connection. We are proud to stand beside the people we serve.

Child on scooter with helmet, posing with two officers and woman, outdoors in a park setting.
Police officer and young man sparring in a boxing ring at a gym, with exercise equipment in the background.
Father and daughter running together in a charity 5k event wearing matching gray shirts with a man's face printed on them.
Police officers posing with a group of smiling children in front of a police car in a community event.
Group of people, some in uniform, standing outside listening to a man pointing toward a truck at an airport or industrial area

Life at SMPD

Our People

Real People. Shared Purpose.

At SMPD, you will find a team of individuals with diverse experiences and shared purpose. Whether it is your academy class, patrol partner, or leadership team, you will be surrounded by people who care about the work—and each other.

Police officers in tactical gear smiling at an outdoor shooting range with a rocky backdrop.
Two police officers in uniform wearing hats and sunglasses outdoors.
Two police officers in their vehicle
Three police officers smiling in uniform, standing in front of Santa Monica Police Department banners.

Our Culture

Built on Trust. Strengthened by Teamwork.

We believe in leading with empathy, evolving through feedback, and fostering a culture of collaboration. From leadership development to shift camaraderie, our culture makes this more than just a job.

Police officer smiling on a beach, holding a Santa Monica Police patch shaped like a heart in front of him.
Group of uniformed police officers standing in front of a government building with trees in the background
Police officers in uniform smiling and talking outdoors at a community event.
Four police officers in uniform standing together outside with trees and buildings in the background

Growth & Opportunity

Your Goals. Our Support.

Whether you’re aiming for promotion or exploring a specialized unit, SMPD offers clear pathways to grow your career. Field training, mentorship, and internal support are here to help you succeed.

Two police officers in uniform smiling indoors at an event.
Person adjusting a police officer's uniform next to Santa Monica Police badge in an indoor setting.
Police officers smiling and shaking hands outdoors at a community event with people and a table in the background.
Uniformed police officer smiling in front of Santa Monica Police banner and American flag.

Beyond the Badge

Balance That Goes Beyond the Job.

We know work-life balance matters. Our location, benefits, and culture give you space to thrive both on and off duty—so you can bring your best self to the job.

Men and a child in matching baseball jerseys pose on a field, holding up one finger in a celebratory gesture.
Group of people posing in a boxing ring, some holding flags, with a night sky backdrop.
People practicing grappling techniques on mats in a spacious indoor training area.
Two basketball players sitting on a bench wearing jerseys that read "Coach Jackson's All-Stars 2023" on a sunny day.
A sunset and Ferris wheel illustration
A sunset and Ferris wheel illustration
Tactical officer in gear holding a rifle, illuminated by red and blue lights, with smoke in the background at night.

Ready to Learn More?

Discover Where You Belong

We are looking for those who want more than just a job. If you’re ready to grow your career, serve your community, and find your purpose—SMPD is ready for you