LGBT community.
And while the Jewish community has not experienced any reported hate crimes, Chief Luna points to the strong relationship between his department and the Anti-Defamation League, commenting, “The ADL is amazing. (Not only in) their ability to share information and make sure that their law enforcement partners are aware of it, but also in taking the steps to do extra training.”
For some, becoming Chief of the Long Beach Police Department would be an amazing job. But for Robert Luna, it's much more. “I have grown up in this police department. I dreamed of being a police officer at a very early age. So, in a sense, I'm living out a dream. I see this city as giving me the opportunity to fulfill my dream. So what a great way to pay it back. To say 'I'm all in!” I'm giving this job everything I've got. Every time I look at what my family has been blessed to have, it all goes back to the city of Long Beach and this police department giving me an opportunity.”
Having spent his career in the Long Beach Police Department, there
“The level of support that I see the community give our police officers is amazing.”
weren't many surprises awaiting Robert Luna when he became chief. Yet there was still something that came as a bit of a surprise when he became Chief. He explains, “I didn't understand the generosity and the commitment of the people who live in this city to make it a great city. And I hope that doesn't sound cheesy, but I truly mean it. When I talk to other chiefs in other police departments, and we compare notes about the political climate and community support, I see a level of cooperation and dedication to making Long Beach great. There are people in this city who have a lot who I see giving a lot. They go to functions and donate money and time to those who are disadvantaged. The level of support that I see the community give our police officers is amazing. I knew this was all there, but now I see it more than ever, and it's awesome.”