Sunnyvale public safety chief retiring in April

Phan Ngo, the Public Safety Chief of Sunnyvale, is retiring at the end of April after eight years of impactful service. His tenure has been marked by a strong focus on community trust and effective management during the COVID-19 emergency response. With 36 years in law enforcement, including significant time at the San Jose Police Department, Ngo has championed community policing, driven by a desire to increase Vietnamese American representation in law enforcement. Sunnyvale City Manager Tim Kirby will appoint an interim chief while a national search for Ngo's replacement begins. Community engagement is a priority, with residents invited to provide input through a survey on the desired traits of the new chief.

The incoming chief will also tackle pressing infrastructure projects and the need for updated technology within the department. Mayor Larry Klein praised Ngo's leadership, particularly during heightened calls for police accountability following George Floyd's death. The city aims to find a community-focused leader to guide the department into its next chapter.