Arcadia Police Chief to Retire After Three Decades of Service

After 34 years of dedicated service to the Arcadia Police Department, Police Chief Roy Nakamura has announced his retirement. His final day with the department will be July 31, 2026.

Chief Nakamura has served as Arcadia’s Police Chief since 2021, marking a unique place in Arcadia’s history as the first Asian American and first Japanese American to lead the department.

“I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had during my career in law enforcement, and I thank my family and friends who have supported me throughout this journey. It has been an honor and privilege to lead the men and women of the Arcadia Police Department,” said Chief Roy Nakamura.

During his tenure, Chief Nakamura prioritized community safety, reducing crime, modernizing the department’s technologies, and strengthening recruitment and training of officers to best serve all Arcadians.

Nakamura began his career with the Arcadia Police Department in 1992 as a police officer. He rose through the ranks and was promoted to Sergeant in 2002, Lieutenant in 2009, and Captain in 2019 before assuming the role of Chief in 2021.

City Manager Dominic Lazzaretto expressed his appreciation for Nakamura’s leadership, service, and long commitment to the community:

“Under Chief Nakamura’s leadership, the Police Department expanded its use of technology to enhance crime-solving efforts, strengthened community ties through a robust Neighborhood Watch program, and successfully recruited and retained a highly talented workforce. Chief Nakamura has led the Arcadia Police Department with integrity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. I am grateful he chose Arcadia more than three decades ago and thank him for his many contributions to our community.”

With the announcement of Chief Nakamura’s impending departure, Arcadia will begin the process of identifying its next permanent Chief of Police.