Palm Springs, CA
After over 4 years, Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills is signaling a future transition out of Palm Springs while reaffirming strong confidence in the leadership team he has helped develop, according to a message he shared on social media.
Widely regarded as a popular and highly respected figure in the Palm Springs community, Mills has earned a reputation among many residents as one of the most effective police chiefs the city has seen in years. His leadership has often been credited with strengthening community trust and improving department performance.
In his post, Mills reflected on his evolution in law enforcement, writing, “I am a crime fighter. As a younger cop, it was operational, and now it’s strategic.” He explained that a key part of his current role has been preparing the next generation of leaders within the Palm Springs Police Department, adding, “I’ve accomplished that goal. They are ready.”
Mills described the department’s emerging leadership as “compassionate and strong leaders who understand what it takes to lead Palm Springs forward,” noting that while they bring a different approach, “in many ways, they are better… the best the profession has to offer.” He said he has communicated his full confidence in the team to City Manager Scott Stiles and the Palm Springs City Council.
The chief made clear that he is not stepping down at this time. “I am not resigning or retiring; rather, I am preparing the department for the immediate next steps,” Mills wrote. As part of that preparation, he shared that he and his wife, Cathy, are putting their home on the market, calling it a move to “prepare for the future.”
Mills also highlighted what he described as strong outcomes during his tenure, pointing to improved public safety and staffing levels. “Crime is down, quality of life is up, and PSPD is fully staffed because they know you care, and the leadership team has their back,” he wrote, crediting both the community and department leadership.
He praised the support he has received from city officials, stating, “It is rare to find this level of advocacy by an elected team,” in reference to the City Manager and City Council.
The message carried a personal tone as well, with Mills expressing appreciation for the Palm Springs community and police department. “The support and love we’ve gotten… is nothing short of spectacular,” he wrote, adding that the decision to begin planning for his next chapter was a difficult one.
Pictured: Chief Andy Mills with Wife Cathy Mills
While no timeline for a transition has been announced, Mills emphasized a commitment to openness moving forward, writing that he and his wife, whom he referred to as “Mr. and Mrs. Transparency,” will “keep you informed every step of the way.”
For now, Mills remains in his role as chief, continuing to lead the department while preparing for what he described as his “next mission.”