Police Chief David Swing, after a long tenure in law enforcement, has announced his intention to retire in April. Swing is set to transition into the position of Executive Director of the East Bay Regional Communications System Authority (EBRCSA), as reported by the City of Pleasanton's official announcement. EBRCSA, a pivotal player in establishing a digital communications network for public safety agencies, will be gaining Swing's 30 years of valuable experience in May 2024.
During a career spanning nearly three decades, Chief Swing's contributions have been diverse, from budgetary strategies to implementing tech innovation to address modern policing challenges “Our community has benefited from Chief Swing’s leadership, expertise, and passion for public service and public safety,” City Manager Gerry Beaudin lauded in a statement. Before his spell in Pleasanton, Swing not only led the Morgan Hill Police Department for nine years but also influenced legislation as president of the California Police Chiefs Association.
Chief Swing's achievements in Pleasanton include the formation of an award-winning Alternative Response Unit, bringing mental health experts to the fore in crises. This initiative has led to a significant dip in officer involvement, with a reported 50% decrease in public safety incidents overall, and an even more striking 70% reduction in cases involving individuals under 18. Furthermore, under Swing's leadership, the police department launched a 5-year strategic plan and introduced its very first department awards ceremony to boost employee recognition, according to the city's announcement.
In looking back at his service, Swing reflected on the difficult decision to retire. “Choosing to retire from a profession, city, and department that has given me so much was a tremendously difficult decision. Throughout my time in Pleasanton, I was continuously impressed by how the women and men of the police department cared for our community and each other. While I am looking forward to the new professional challenges ahead with EBRCSA and continuing to serve in a purpose-filled role, I will always look back fondly on how the department welcomed me during the onset of the pandemic and hope the relationships I’ve made last as long as the things we accomplished,” Swing remarked.
