A career Corona police officer is now the city’s police chief, following the retirement of his predecessor.
Robert Newman, 48, replaced George Johnstone in the top slot at the Corona Police Department, after being appointed by City Manager Jacob Ellis.
“It takes many years of training and experience to be prepared to serve effectively in this capacity, and it is rewarding to see one of our own earn the opportunity to lead,” Ellis said. “I have full confidence that (Newman) possesses the commitment, leadership qualities, and integrity necessary to continue Corona’s proud tradition of `Excellence in Policing.”’
Johnstone, 52, retired on Christmas Day, in what was a planned departure, according to city officials. He had been at the helm since late August 2018.
“He served our department and city with honor and integrity,” according to a statement by the Office of the City Manager.
Newman officially stepped into the role of chief on Tuesday.
He started with the department in 1995, and during the last quarter century, he worked patrol, in the detective bureau, as a watch commander and supervisor of the K9 unit.