Richard DePalma is the acting commissioner of the Long Beach Police Department. He’s spent nearly three decades serving in law enforcement — including 24 years in Long Beach.
With the 2026-27 school year set to begin on Sept. 3, DePalma, who has three children, wished parents and students a safe and healthy school year, while sharing some back-to-school reminders and tidbits.
Q: What are the department’s biggest safety concerns as students return to school?
A: Our biggest concerns are things that can hurt students quickly. We’re concerned about speeding, risky driving, suspicious activity as well as bullying and threats. We want to create a safe environment for the students and staff and families as school starts.
Q: What will the police presence look like in school zones?
A: As school starts, you’re going to see police officers near all the schools and in school zones. We’re there to keep an eye out for suspicious activity. We’re there to keep people honest when driving and to have people drive safely to enforce the laws. We want a smooth transition from the summer to the school year and make sure that people — children — are safe, because they are our greatest asset.
Q: What can drivers do to make school zones safer?
A: Keep your head on a swivel — kids are great, but they’re not as fully aware of the rules as adults are. Be mindful of that when you’re driving through school zones. Stay alert, abide by the law and make sure you’re aware of all the traffic regulations, at and near the school, especially the speed limit. Obey all traffic control devices, all the signs, the crossing guards, when they’re directing traffic and comply with their directions.
Q: What can students do if they see something suspicious or feel unsafe?
A: Go to a trusted adult. Whether that’s a schoolteacher, a security guard at school, a crossing guard or a police officer, make sure you go to a trusted adult and point it out. Whoever that’s reported to, should contact the police and let us investigate it.
Q: Anything else to add?
A: To the drivers — slow down. Follow the posted school zone and speed limits. Watch for kids crossing the street. Stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk. Eliminate distracted driving, make sure you’re not texting or looking down at your GPS or your Apple CarPlay while you’re driving. Whether you’re commuting to work or dropping your children off at school, just be patient. Traffic is going to slow around the schools, especially in the school year. Make sure you plan accordingly and don’t rush. There’s no point in creating a dangerous situation because if you’re late, you’re late.
