A message from your police chief
September 05, 2011
Gary Morrison, City of Carlsbad Police Chief
As seen in this month’s Carlsbad Magazine
A little over a year ago, I moved to Carlsbad to become your new police chief. As I’ve settled into our new home in Carlsbad and gotten to know my fellow community members and the fine men and women of the City of Carlsbad Police Department, one thing has become clear – Carlsbad deserves its reputation as one of the most family-oriented, safe and well-run cities in all of California.
Of course, a safe community does not happen by accident. It takes a team to make this goal a reality. I see this team as having three major components that come together and make Carlsbad the jewel by the sea that we enjoy on a daily basis.
Here in Carlsbad we are fortunate to have city leaders who have devoted a great deal of energy and support to building a safe community. Carlsbad has a full service police department, staffed with committed men and women who are trained and equipped to handle any crisis they are faced with. Lastly, and most importantly, we have the support of our community, which is a true partner in our efforts every step of the way.
As your police chief, an important part of my job is building relationships in the community. I’ve enjoyed getting out and meeting with local businesses and talking about how we can work together. One of my favorite experiences so far was meeting with neighborhood groups as part of our successful National Night out Against Crime in late summer. Not only did members of the police department get to meet local residents, but I saw some neighbors literally meet each other for the first time as part of this great event.
Even though Carlsbad enjoys a low crime rate, we need to stay vigilant, especially with economic pressures, drugs and gang activity that are, unfortunately, a part of our world today. Here’s how you can help:
- Report suspicious activity: Although the Carlsbad Police Department receives constant accolades for our response times, we rely on our community members to report unusual behavior or situations.
- Get to know your neighbors and fellow business owners: Much like the spirit of National Night Out, you as a resident or a business owner know what the norm for your respective neighborhood is. If you notice something unusual, call it in.
- Lock your homes and businesses: Surprisingly, many of us are guilty of leaving our doors and windows open or unlocked when we step out for a quick walk or errand. Criminals are opportunistic by nature and take advantage of “soft targets.”
- Do not leave valuables in plain sight: Laptops, GPS units, phones and even a nice pair of sunglasses are invitations for break-ins.
For more crime prevention tips, including a new video series hosted by our department’s crime prevention specialist, please visit our website,
www.carlsbadca.gov/police.
We are truly fortunate to live in such a great city. The men and women of the Carlsbad Police Department are committed to doing their very best to contribute to the City of Carlsbad’s success. Together we can keep our community safe.