Abdul Pridgen was sworn in as the next Police Chief of San Leandro on September 13, 2021. The Oath of Office was given at 6:30 p.m., at the beginning of a special City Council meeting.

City Council meetings continue to be held virtually. Monday’s meeting is available on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/506831637.

Pridgen comes to San Leandro after serving as the police chief of the City of Seaside. Prior to Seaside, Chief Pridgen spent 26 years with the police department in Fort Worth, Texas, where he attained the rank of assistant chief of police.

“Chief Pridgen is a well-respected law enforcement veteran, who is an advocate for diversity, inclusion, and a community builder,” said City Manager Fran Robustelli. “Chief Pridgen will provide immediate attention to pressing needs, such as transparency, investment into personnel, and implementing police oversight for the department.”

In response to his appointment, Pridgen stated, “It is an honor to be gifted the chance to serve the dedicated men and women of the San Leandro Police Department and the rich, diverse group of San Leandrans. 

“Our profession faces many challenges, but we have a tremendous opportunity to set an example for progressive, procedurally just, transparent, accountable, and community-focused policing. I look forward to working closely with all of our internal and external stakeholders to make the San Leandro Police Department a pioneering model of contemporary policing for others to emulate,” he said.

Pridgen received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice from Dallas Baptist University and his Master of Public Administration from Tarleton State University. 

In addition, he received training from the Southern Police Institute, FBI National Academy, FBI National Executive Institute, and Harvard University Kennedy School of Government. Pridgen serves as the president of the California Police Chiefs Association.

The City of San Leandro press office provided this story.

Christy Price

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