Police Department
our mission
our mission
our mission
To create a safer Chico and improve quality of life by partnering with our community and providing dedicated service.
OUR VALUES
Integrity | Courage | Respect
CLICK HERE FOR FORMS AND DOCUMENTS |
Announcements
Chico Police Chief Billy Aldridge stated that all citizens entering the building will now undergo a security screening process, which includes a bag check and a walkthrough of the security detector. "We want to ensure that our public spaces are as safe as possible for everyone, and this added security measure is a direct result of a recent security assessment that considered the latest homeland security threat levels," Aldridge said.
The screening process is designed to be quick and efficient, with each person’s screening expected to take under 30 seconds. “We appreciate the public’s patience as they adjust to this new process. Items like cellphones, keys, and belts won’t trigger the sensors, and our goal is to keep things moving while prioritizing safety,” Aldridge added.
To accommodate this new security feature, the council chambers will open at 5 p.m. (or earlier, in the case of closed sessions) on Tuesdays when City Council meetings are scheduled. Citizens attending these meetings are advised to plan for a brief security check upon arrival. Guests who exit the chambers during the meeting will be re-screened before re-entering.
In addition to the security detector, a new policy on bag sizes will be enforced, limiting personal bags to one item no larger than 22” x 9” x 4” – the size of an airport carry-on. A dedicated bag search table will be set up next to the security detector to assist in the screening process.
As part of the screening protocol, the system is designed to detect concealed weapons. Hidden non metal objects like rocks or plastic items will not be detected by the machine, so security personnel will complement the technology.
The security detection system, supplied by Evolv Technology, uses advanced scanning capabilities to ensure thorough and non-invasive security checks. The machine is designed to block any attempts to bypass the system.
For additional information on the technology see:
“Our primary focus is to maintain a civil and secure environment for all citizens participating in City Council Meetings, and we believe this new security protocol will greatly contribute to that effort,” City Manager Mark Sorensen concluded.
To ensure the public’s safety, similar technology is being used elsewhere in the County such as in the Butte County Courthouse and at the Silver Dollar Fair.
For additional information regarding the new security measures please contact:
Announcements
City of Chico Installs Security Detection in City Council Chambers
(Chico, CA – September 26, 2024) - As part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security at public gatherings, the City of Chico, in partnership with the Chico Police Department, has installed a new state-of-the-art security detector at City Council Chambers, located at 421 Main Street. The new system is set to begin operation with the October 15, 2024, City Council meeting.
Chico Police Chief Billy Aldridge stated that all citizens entering the building will now undergo a security screening process, which includes a bag check and a walkthrough of the security detector. "We want to ensure that our public spaces are as safe as possible for everyone, and this added security measure is a direct result of a recent security assessment that considered the latest homeland security threat levels," Aldridge said.
The screening process is designed to be quick and efficient, with each person’s screening expected to take under 30 seconds. “We appreciate the public’s patience as they adjust to this new process. Items like cellphones, keys, and belts won’t trigger the sensors, and our goal is to keep things moving while prioritizing safety,” Aldridge added.
To accommodate this new security feature, the council chambers will open at 5 p.m. (or earlier, in the case of closed sessions) on Tuesdays when City Council meetings are scheduled. Citizens attending these meetings are advised to plan for a brief security check upon arrival. Guests who exit the chambers during the meeting will be re-screened before re-entering.
In addition to the security detector, a new policy on bag sizes will be enforced, limiting personal bags to one item no larger than 22” x 9” x 4” – the size of an airport carry-on. A dedicated bag search table will be set up next to the security detector to assist in the screening process.
As part of the screening protocol, the system is designed to detect concealed weapons. Hidden non metal objects like rocks or plastic items will not be detected by the machine, so security personnel will complement the technology.
The security detection system, supplied by Evolv Technology, uses advanced scanning capabilities to ensure thorough and non-invasive security checks. The machine is designed to block any attempts to bypass the system.
For additional information on the technology see:
- https://evolv.com/concealed-weapons-detection/express/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yf5VG7YDes
In accordance with Penal Code section 171b and recent legislation (SB 2), concealed carry weapons (CCWs) are prohibited in the City Council Chambers. Chico Police and security staff will strictly enforce this regulation.
“Our primary focus is to maintain a civil and secure environment for all citizens participating in City Council Meetings, and we believe this new security protocol will greatly contribute to that effort,” City Manager Mark Sorensen concluded.
To ensure the public’s safety, similar technology is being used elsewhere in the County such as in the Butte County Courthouse and at the Silver Dollar Fair.
For additional information regarding the new security measures please contact:
- Chief of Police, Billy Aldridge, 530-897-4950 or sarah.christensen@chicoca.gov, or
- City Manager, Mark Sorensen, mark.sorensen@chicoca.gov.
Located in Butte County, California, Chico is the cultural and economic center of the northern Sacramento Valley and the largest city north of Sacramento. Known as a college town, the home of California State University, Chico and for Bidwell Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United State. For more information, visit www.chico.ca.us.
# # #
Citizens Police Academy - Applications Open!
January 9, 2025 - April 10, 2025
The Citizens Police Academy is a fourteen (14) week program designed to give participants an inside look at local law enforcement. During the Academy, students will be introduced to a variety of topics that will give them an overview of the Chico Police Department’s functions and operational procedures.
Academy classes are presented by Police Department administrators, veteran department personnel, current police officers and volunteers. Participants may have the opportunity to meet with the Chief of Police and various other staff members. Students are encouraged to ask questions and express ideas and concerns.
Work with us
Work with us
Work with us
The Chico Police Department employs both sworn and non-sworn personnel. If you're interested in a career change or want to find the blue in you, check our available openings at JoinChicoPD.com.
OTHER Resources
OTHER Resources
OTHER Resources
Internet Activity for a 13-year-old: A Parent's Guide
Thirteen is an important age for internet users in the United States. Companies generally don’t let 12-year-olds join social media, browse certain websites, or sign up for email addresses—at least not without fibbing about their age.
CodeRed Emergency Notifications
Current Evacuation Maps
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) worked with partners at CAL FIRE, Butte County Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, and PG&E to map out evacuation zones for the entire county.
Chico residents are encouraged to review new maps.
Please click the button below and enter your address to locate the evacuation zone in which you reside.
