Pittsburg police chief announces retirement

PITTSBURG — After 29 years in law enforcement, Pittsburg Police Chief Steve Albanese will retire, he announced.

Albanese took over the role in June 2022, after Chief Brian Addington retired.

“Chief Albanese will continue to work closely with City leadership to support a smooth transition and assist in planning for the department’s future leadership,” said the city in a statement on Friday.

Albanese, a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, advanced through the ranks of the Pittsburg Police Department, serving in various leadership assignments and contributing “nearly to every operational area of municipal policing,” said the city.

“His tenure as Chief was defined by a commitment to accountability, professionalism, and strengthening relationships with the community and regional partners,” the city said. “His professionalism, commitment to service, and deep institutional knowledge have been central to the department’s ongoing development, measurable crime reduction efforts, and long-term organizational stability.”

Albanese said serving as Pittsburg’s police chief was one of the “greatest honors” of his life.

When he assumed the role, Albanese said he committed to remaining responsive, developing partnerships to reduce crime, and providing “fair and professional policing” to the community.

“I am extremely proud of the work of our officers and the entire police department,” said Albanese. “We have made excellent strides in providing professional police services, increasing our outreach and community engagement, and reducing crime to a five-year low.”

Pittsburg City Manager Darin Gale noted Albanese’s leadership has had a “lasting and positive” impact on the city and the police department.

“His dedication to community partnerships, modern policing practices, and staff development has positioned the department for long-term success,” said Gale. “I look forward to working with Chief Albanese over the next few months and appreciate his continued support as we prepare  for this transition.”

The city will select its next chief of police in the coming months.