Santa Monica Police Chief Ramón Batista announced his resignation on Friday, effective October 4, after nearly four years in the role. Batista’s departure has sparked speculation that he was forced out, as his farewell letter highlighted a fundamental disagreement with city leadership.
In his resignation letter, Batista praised the resilience of the officers and emphasized the reforms he implemented during his tenure. However, he also noted a disconnect between his nearly 40 years of experience in public safety and the demands of the new administration. “As I step aside, I do so recognizing that my nearly 40 years of experience in public safety and policing, my deeply held sense of justice, and following not only the spirit, but the letter of the law, appear to be at odds from demands set by the new administration,” Batista wrote.
City Manager Oliver Chi received Batista’s resignation, which comes amid a period of leadership changes within the city. Batista expressed optimism about his future endeavors, stating that he looks forward to his next challenge with “purpose, conviction, and optimism.” The city has yet to announce who will take over as police chief after Batista’s departure.
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