HomeMy WebLinkAboutEdwards, Natalie_Public_Comment__Redacted4/1/2026
Good evening, Mayor, City Council Members, and fellow residents.
I am writing this to express strong support for our Police Chief Darren Goodman. Since taking
leadership in 2022, Chief Goodman has delivered measurable results for both our community
and the men and women who serve in the San Bernardino Police Department.
Under his leadership, crime in San Bernardino is now at its lowest level in over 25 years. Major
crimes have dropped sharply since 2020: homicides by 68%, robberies by 31%, aggravated
assaults by 39%, and burglaries by 28% — improvements that have outpaced national trends.
Chief Goodman has also prioritized support for department personnel. He has increased staffing
from 262 to 291 officers, secured funding for newer vehicles and upgraded technology
(including advanced systems for records, body cameras, license plate readers, and real-time
crime monitoring), and provided more resources to help officers do their jobs effectively.
Importantly, he has fought hard for his team — ensuring that officers, as well as civilian
personnel, including those who may have felt overlooked in the past, are properly appreciated,
equipped, and backed.
These investments in people and tools have enabled more proactive policing, faster response
times, and real progress on issues like homelessness and quality-of-life crimes. They translate
into safer streets for all of us.
In a time of political drama and scrutiny, we should focus on these concrete achievements
rather than unsubstantiated claims. Undermining proven leadership harms department morale
and our community’s safety.
As a board member of the Police Civilian Officers Association, I fully support Chief Goodman
and the dedicated officers of the San Bernardino Police Department. I urge the City Council to
stand with the data and the results he has delivered.
Thank you for your time and for prioritizing the safety and well-being of our residents.