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Phil Collum
Police Captain - Operations Division
Professional Background
Phil Collum is a proud leader in the law enforcement community, currently serving as the Division Commander for the Patrol Operations Division of the Chula Vista Police Department. This division is pivotal within the department, representing the largest segment of uniformed officers who are consistently engaging with the community by responding to an impressive number of over 65,000 citizen calls for service each year. With a commitment to being available around the clock—24 hours a day, 365 days a year—the Patrol Operations Division showcases Captain Collum's tireless dedication to public safety and community engagement.
Captain Collum embarked on his law enforcement journey in 1990, starting as a Community Service Officer while studying at the University of California, Santa Cruz. His career swiftly progressed as he took on various roles, including Police Dispatcher and Reserve Police Officer, before achieving the position of Patrol Officer in 1992. Returning to his hometown of San Diego in October 1994, he joined the ranks of the Chula Vista Police Department, where he established a reputation built on fairness, transparency, and ethical professionalism.
Leadership and Community Engagement
For more than 15 years, Captain Collum has been devoted to community policing, fostering good relationships with the residents of Chula Vista, and further emphasizing the department's commitment to communication and engagement. His leadership style is characterized by a strong ethical foundation and willingness to adapt to meet the changing dynamics of community needs. Captain Collum made history in 2009 by becoming the first African-American to be promoted to the rank of Police Lieutenant in the department. His upward trajectory continued, and in 2018, he was appointed to Police Captain, further solidifying his influence and leadership within the department.
In his capacity as a manager, Captain Collum has held numerous roles including Field Sergeant, Professional Standards Unit Supervisor, Patrol Watch Commander, and North District Commander, among others. His diversified assignments illustrate his comprehensive understanding of law enforcement operations. His extensive experience includes serving as a Neighborhood Enforcement Officer, Gang Enforcement Officer, Detective in the Family Protection Unit, and an Ethics Instructor, showcasing his dedication to both operational effectiveness and ethical policing.
Innovation and Modernization
Throughout his career, Captain Collum has been at the forefront of various initiatives aimed at modernizing police operations. Notably, he was instrumental in establishing the Police Department’s first Citizens’ Police Academy, promoting openness and fostering public knowledge of law enforcement activities. Furthermore, he was a central figure in the modernization of patrol computing and telecommunication platforms, and he played a key role in updating the department’s comprehensive 800-page policy manual. As the project manager for the implementation of the Computer Aided Dispatch system, he showcased his commitment to integrating innovative technology to enhance public safety and operational efficiency.
Education and Achievements
Captain Collum's educational background is equally impressive. He earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration from California Coast University. In addition, he is a proud graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy (FBINA), Session #278, which is renowned for enhancing law enforcement leadership. He furthered his professional development by attending the California POST Command College, Class #58, and he also completed the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute Class #196.
Captain Collum's accomplishments reflect his dedication to law enforcement and community engagement. With a strong emphasis on ethical policing and community service, he continues to inspire those around him and embodies the values of the Chula Vista Police Department. His vision for a more connected and cooperative community serves as a guiding principle in all his endeavors, as he strives toward greater transparency and accountability within the police force.
