Heath Harvey is retiring as Monrovia’s police chief on Oct. 31, and City Manager Dylan Feik named MPD Capt. Sarah Covarrubias as the department’s next leader, officials said last week.
“Chief Harvey leaves behind a record of service that reflects the responsibility he has taken on as Monrovia’s chief of police,” Feik said in a statement. “From earning the (city’s) Medal of Valor to receiving commendations for his work in community policing, he has consistently shown what it means to serve this community. His leadership has helped shape the Monrovia Police Department and its connection with the people of Monrovia.”
Harvey began his 29-year career as a reserve police officer and went on to lead high-risk operations and community policing for the Police Department. He has a master’s degree in emergency management and homeland security from Arizona State University and has completed executive leadership training through the Drucker University Leadership Institute.
“We thank Chief Harvey for his service and the time he has given to our city, and we wish him well in what comes next,” Feik said.
“Being part of the Monrovia community has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my life,” Harvey said in a statement. “I have had the opportunity to work with some outstanding people, both within the police department and across the city, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together. Every day brought new challenges, but also new opportunities to serve, learn and grow. As I retire, I’m grateful for the experiences, the relationships and the trust that have made my time in Monrovia so rewarding.”
Covarrubias will start as chief Nov. 1, overseeing a department that serves nearly 38,000 residents along with people who visit the city, commuters and the business community, city officials said. The MPD has 80 full-time employees and a $13 million budget, with responsibilities that range from street patrols, crime investigations, communications and technology, community policing and other public safety activities.
Over nearly 26 years with the Monrovia Police Department, Covarrubias has been a cadet, dispatcher, officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant and captain.
The city’s website has more information on the department.
