About Us

Serving as the voice and resource of choice for California’s law enforcement leaders, the association’s objectives are to promote and advance the science and art of police administration and crime prevention; to develop and disseminate professional administrative practices and to promote their use in the police profession; to foster police cooperation and the exchange of information and experience throughout the state; to bring about recruitment and training of qualified persons in the police profession; and to encourage the adherence of all police officers to high professional standards of conduct in strict compliance with the Law Enforcement Officer’s Code of Ethics.

The California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) advocates for sound policy on public safety issues at the state capitol and has an active government relations program. In addition to its committees that focus on emerging issues and provide resources and sample policies to its members, CPCA provides professional development and training to police chiefs and seconds in command throughout the state.

Mission and Vision

Mission: Serving as the voice and resource of choice for California law enforcement leaders.

Vision: Advancing California law enforcement leadership and shaping the future of policing.

Values: Leadership; Accountability; Collaboration; Professionalism; Trust

Advocacy

The California Police Chiefs Association advocates to improve the law enforcement profession, promote public safety, and to bring forward the concerns of our 332 Municipal Police Departments in California. Working with our Board of Directors and Legislative Committee, CPCA takes a position on bills impacting public safety and law enforcement. Visit our Advocacy page for more information on our legislative platform and priorities, bill positions, press releases, and legal advocacy efforts. 

Professional Development

Through our educational programming, California Police Chiefs Association seeks to equip current and aspiring leaders in policing with the specialized knowledge, skills, and strategic perspectives necessary to effectively lead their organizations in an ever-evolving landscape of challenges and opportunities. Visit the Event Calendar to view our upcoming programs!

Advisory Committees

Our advisory committees provide the opportunity for our members to engage in the topics they are passionate about — from Technology to Member Experience, there is a seat for everyone at the table. Our committees work to develop resources and solutions to address the membership's needs, and ensuring that our members are represented throughout the association. Learn more by visiting the Advisory Committees page. 

Awards

Allen W. Sill Founders Award

The Allen W. Sill Founders Award was created in 2015 to honor the vision and accomplishments of Chief Allen Sill (West Covina) and the original founders who created the California Police Chiefs Association in 1966.  This award was presented for the first time at the 2016 Annual Training Symposium in honor of the Association’s 50th anniversary.

Joe Molloy Memorial Award

The sudden loss of Chief Joseph Thomas Molloy, affectionately known as "Joe" to his acquaintances, created a profound void in the hearts of many, particularly among his family and colleagues in law enforcement who held him dear, collaborated with him, and deeply respected him. At the time of his untimely passing, Joe held the position of 1st Vice President within the California Police Chiefs Association. This prestigious accolade aims to honor Joe's legacy and acknowledge outstanding excellence, professionalism, and commitment within the police chief community.

Recipients of the Joseph T. Molloy Award are recognized for their exemplary professionalism, leadership, vigor, and unwavering dedication to the association's mission. Whether through cumulative contributions or specific achievements, chiefs may be commended for their significant impact on the field of policing. This prestigious accolade aims to honor Joe's legacy and acknowledge outstanding excellence, professionalism, and commitment within the police chief community.

Learn more

FAQ

CPCA is always seeking the best and most cutting edge presenters to present at our Professional Development programming. If you have a presentation that suits a specific event or education course, please visit there respective web pages. If you would like to submit it to our general speaking opportunity inbox, please follow this link.
CPCA membership is open to municipal California police chiefs, their Seconds in Command, retired chiefs, and school, transportation and campus chiefs of police. If you would like more information on how to join us and the benefits our association offers, please visit our membership page.
Joining a committee is the best way to actively become involved in the happenings of CPCA. We offer our members the option to participate on 10 different advisory committees. A simple application is required to become a participant on them. Check out our committee advisory page to learn more about the options available.
There are many ways to get in contact with us! The easiest would be to click the "contact us" button at the top right of your screen. If you are looking to get in contact with a specific member of our team, please visit the staff directory located under the "About Us" tab.
We value our partnerships with industry leading companies and businesses. These partnerships are mutually beneficial for both our members and the companies we collaborate with. For more information on the levels we have available, please visit our partners page or reach out to Heather Palka.
The CPCA office is fully remote. Our office hours are Monday - Thursday 7:00am to 5:30pm. We are closed on Fridays.