Palm Springs Appoints New Police Chief

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Deputy Chief Kyle Stjerne, a 24-year veteran of the Palm Springs Police Department, has been appointed the city's next chief of police, officials announced Monday.

Stjerne was selected following an internal recruitment process and a community survey that drew 1,300 responses from local residents. Stjerne will succeed retiring Chief Andy Mills on Sept. 6.

Stjerne joined the department as a patrol officer in 2002 and rose through the ranks, serving as a detective sergeant, SWAT commander, internal affairs sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. He was promoted to deputy chief in January, taking over day-to-day operations and oversight of the department's $46 million budget.

During his tenure, Stjerne oversaw a overhaul of the city's crime-control strategy, led major criminal investigations, and managed security operations for high-profile events, including presidential visits.

"Kyle has grown into an outstanding leader, a seasoned problem solver, and a trusted public servant with a deep understanding of our Palm Springs community and values," City Manager Scott Stiles said in a statement.

Stjerne holds a bachelor's degree in sociology from San Diego State University and credentials from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Harvard Business School Online. He is also a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police in Boston.

"To be entrusted with leading the Palm Springs Police Department as the next chief of police is the profound honor of my professional life," Stjerne said, pledging to focus on integrity, transparency, and community-centered policing.

Stjerne lives in the Coachella Valley with his wife of 21 years, Brooke, and their two children.