A Walk of Honor, a traditional ceremony to bid farewell to retiring police officers in Chino, was held for outgoing Chief of Police Wes Simmons on Thursday, August 10 at Chino Police Department headquarters. The event marked Simmon's last day on the job and the end of a long career with the Chino PD. Chief Simmons was joined by his wife Heidi down the Walk of Honor and then into a standing-room-only crowd in the Police Department Community Room.

Incoming Chief of Police Kevin Mensen served as master of ceremonies for the event and provided an overview of Simmon's career with the City, which began in 1995 following his graduation from California State University at Fullerton with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Simmons served in numerous assignments during his 28 years with Chino PD, including Field Training Officer, SWAT Team Operator, Mobile Field Force member, Problem Oriented Policing Officer, and Detective. He successfully served at each rank within the police department, promoting to Corporal in 1998, Sergeant in 2006, Lieutenant in 2009, and Captain in 2014. He was appointed to Chief of Police in July of 2019.

Retired Chino Chief of Police Miles Pruitt shared entertaining stories about Simmon's younger days on the force. Mayor Eunice Ulloa highlighted Simmons' contributions to the Chino community through his 28 years of service noting, "Wes’ affable nature and great laugh sometimes make us forget that he is a true professional, dedicated to always doing the best that he can and to constant improvement – of himself, of processes, expectations, and results. He is a true leader – someone that leads by example, encourages, and mentors, and ensures that the structures exist to provide his team with the necessary support so they can become confident, well-prepared leaders."

Mayor Ulloa also stressed Simmon's legacy, stating, "Wes leaves a police department that is the envy of the region – with a solid succession plan, led by a collaborative, proactive, and forward-looking leadership team. While success is generally defined by what takes place when a person is at the helm, the reality is that the changes and culture that Wes created will continue to benefit our community for years to come." Simmons was then presented with a gift from the City Council, whose membership includes two of Simmon's former Chino PD colleagues, Mayor Pro Tem Karen Comstock and Council Member Curtis Burton.

Simmons and his wife are retiring out of state and plan to spend time visiting their adult daughters and “overlanding” - camping and hiking in remote areas. 

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