Patrick Lunney Takes Over as Director of Lockyer's Division of Law Enforcement

(SACRAMENTO) – Attorney General Bill Lockyer announced that Patrick N. Lunney has assumed command as the Director of his Division of Law Enforcement (DLE). Lunney succeeds Steven H. Staveley, who is retiring after a 34-year career in law enforcement.

Lunney, 52, assumed command of DLE during a ceremony earlier today in Sacramento. He had served as Deputy Director of DLE since January, 1999. Lunney began his law enforcement career as an officer with the Merced Police Department in 1975. Eight years later, at the age of 35, he was appointed Chief of Police, a position he held for 15 years. Under his direction, the Merced Police Department earned numerous awards, and was nationally recognized for its community based policing efforts. Lunney recently participated in the prestigious "Senior Executives in State and Local Government" program at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government.

"For the past two years, Pat Lunney's strong local law enforcement background and experience has benefitted our department and law enforcement agencies throughout California," said Lockyer. "Under his leadership, we will continue to improve our ability to provide service to California law enforcement agencies as well as develop premiere crime fighting strategies and programs."

As the Director of DLE, Lunney serves as the Attorney General's primary representative to law enforcement agencies throughout California and the country while managing more than 1,000 employees who work in the state's crime labs, investigative bureau and drug enforcement programs.

"The challenges facing law enforcement in California are immense," said Lunney. "Our growing and changing population, coupled with changes in technology and the economy, present a complex picture of public safety in the future. Meeting these challenges successfully will require unprecedented coordination between state and local agencies. I'm looking forward to helping develop the strategies, tools, and relationships with local law enforcement that will enhance the quality of life for all Californians."

Prior to his Department of Justice appointment, Staveley served as Chief of Police in La Habra for nine years. He also served, while police chief, as Deputy City Manager from 1995 to 1999. Staveley also served as Chief of Police for Belmont for more than three years, after serving twenty years with the Buena Park Police Department, where he began his career as a street officer in 1967. In addition to his law enforcement duties, Staveley served more than 14-years on the Magnolia Elementary School Board in Orange County.

"Steve Staveley is one of California's most respected law enforcement officials," Lockyer said. "He has provided inspired leadership in the Division of Law Enforcement and helped make the Department of Justice a vital partner with local law enforcement."