DLNews Staff

Chief Andy Mills Signals New Chapter, Not Goodbye, for Palm Springs Police

Palm Springs is preparing for a transition at the top of its police department—but not a departure in the traditional sense. Police Chief Andy Mills announced this week that he is taking steps to move on from his current role, while emphasizing clearly that he is neither resigning nor retiring.

In a personal and reflective Facebook statement shared Thursday, Mills described his decision as the beginning of a “next mission,” underscoring that his move is forward-looking rather than abrupt. “I am not resigning or retiring; rather, I am preparing the department for the immediate next steps,” he wrote, framing the transition as part of a broader professional evolution.

Mills, who has served as Palm Springs Police Chief since October 2021 after succeeding former Chief Bryan Reyes, pointed to what he sees as a completed chapter of leadership—one focused on strengthening the department from within. He highlighted his efforts to build and mentor a new generation of leaders, noting that the team now in place is “ready,” “compassionate,” and in many ways “even better.”

The chief also revealed a personal step signaling change ahead: he and his wife Cathy plan to list their Palm Springs home for sale, with the listing expected to go live Monday.

Importantly, Mills’ message struck a tone of confidence and continuity rather than concern. He praised the support of City Manager Scott Stiles and the Palm Springs City Council, calling their level of advocacy “rare,” and credited the community’s engagement as a driving force behind departmental success. According to Mills, Palm Springs has seen crime decrease, quality of life improve, and staffing levels stabilize during his tenure.

At this stage, there is no public indication of conflict with city leadership or internal issues prompting the move. Instead, Mills’ comments suggest a deliberate and strategic transition—one that aligns with his long-standing identity as both an operational and strategic “crime fighter.”

For Palm Springs residents, the message is both reassuring and bittersweet: a respected chief preparing to pass the baton, while expressing full confidence in the team he leaves behind.

As Mills put it, “Now it’s time to find my next mission.”