By Khalida Sarwari
Santa Clara police Chief Steve Lodge has announced he is retiring Friday after nearly 31 years with the Police Department.
Lodge started as a patrol officer in 1980. In 1983, he became an undercover narcotics investigator in a local task force. He then was promoted to captain in 1997. He was appointed chief of police in 2000.
Lodge said his greatest contribution as chief was hiring quality people to serve in the sworn as well as non-sworn ranks.
“I have been able to work with some very talented people who really care about serving the community,” Lodge said in a statement.
Lodge received Bachelor of Science degrees in administration of justice and business management from San Jose State University and also graduated from the FBI National Academy.
The Santa Clara City Council will discuss the appointment of Lodge’s replacement at its next meeting Jan. 11.