Photo provided by Sarah Covarrubias.
Sarah Covarrubias takes over as Monrovia’s police chief Sunday, Nov. 1. In emailed answers to MonroviaNow’s questions, she discusses enforcement priorities, reckless riding around the Friday Night Street Fair, and her first-year goals.
1. Which problems police face are growing, which are not, and how does that shape your enforcement priorities?
Our enforcement priorities are driven by crime trends, community concerns, and data, but also by the quality of life issues residents experience every day. While some crime categories may fluctuate, issues such as traffic safety, reckless behavior in public spaces, and concerns about homelessness and behavioral health continue to require a thoughtful, coordinated response. My priority is to ensure we are proactive rather than simply reactive, focusing our resources where they will have the greatest impact. That means holding people accountable when necessary while also working with our community partners to address underlying issues and prevent problems before they escalate.
2. I know police have responded to complaints about young riders operating bicycles, e-bikes and electric motorcycles recklessly, particularly around the Friday Night Street Fair. How is the new enforcement working?
We take these concerns seriously because the safety of our residents, visitors, and young people is paramount. We have increased our attention to reckless riding and unsafe behavior, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity, including the Friday Night Street Fair. Our approach combines education and outreach with enforcement when violations occur. We want young riders and their parents to understand the rules and the very real risks associated with unsafe riding. At the same time, we will hold individuals accountable when their behavior puts others at risk. We will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of these efforts and adjust our approach based on community feedback and observed results.
3. What are your goals for your first year as chief?
My first year will be focused on three priorities: strengthening our department from within, building trust and engagement with our community, and ensuring we are delivering effective, accountable, and forward-thinking public safety services.
Internally, I want to foster a culture of communication, collaboration, professional development, and employee wellness so our personnel have the support and resources they need to succeed. Externally, I want to strengthen relationships with residents, businesses, and community partners, ensuring we listen to concerns and remain accessible and responsive. Finally, I want to continue modernizing our approach to policing through data-driven strategies, innovation, and accountability.
Ultimately, success to me means a department that is well-supported and prepared for the future, a community that feels safe and heard, and a continued commitment to the partnerships that make Monrovia such a special place to live, work, and visit.
- Brad Haugaard
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