I am pleased to announce that Captain John McKean has been appointed as the next Assistant Chief of Police, filling the vacancy created by my promotion to Chief of Police. Captain McKean brings nearly 22 years of distinguished service, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to the Oceanside community. His dedication to both the City of
Oceanside and the Oceanside Police Department will undoubtedly serve him well in this critical leadership role.
Captain McKean, a native of Detroit, Michigan, embarked on a lifetime of service immediately after graduating high school in 1982 by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. Over the course of 20 years, he rose to the rank of First Sergeant before retiring honorably. While on active duty, Captain McKean attended the Palomar Police Academy from July 2000 to September 2001. After graduating, he began his law enforcement career as a Level 1 Reserve Officer with the Oceanside Police Department. Following his retirement from the Marine Corps, he transitioned to a full-time role with the department in August 2003.
Captain McKean holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Union Institute and University and a Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego. He is also a proud graduate of the FBI National Academy, Session
#284.
During his tenure with the Oceanside Police Department, Captain McKean has served in a variety of assignments, including Patrol, the Gang Suppression Unit, the Special Enforcement Section, and the North County Regional Gang Task Force. He also served as Detective Sergeant in the Property and Financial Crimes Unit, a member and supervisor of the Special Weapons and Tactics Team, and a Crisis Negotiator. In December 2020, he was promoted to Lieutenant, a position he held until April 2023, when he was promoted to Captain and assigned to lead the Investigations Division.
Please join me in congratulating Captain McKean on his well-deserved promotion and in supporting him as he steps into his new role as Assistant Chief of Police. Chief McKean’s appointment is effective December 22, 2024.
