Port Hueneme Police Chief Federico to Retire December 3; Robert Albertson Chosen as Successor

PORT HUENEME — CALIFORNIA58 LOCAL. Port Hueneme Police Chief Michael Federico has announced his intention to retire effective December 3, 2026, after more than 34 years in public service. City Manager James Vega has selected Police Commander Robert Albertson as the department’s next chief.

What residents and visitors should know

Federico returned to Port Hueneme in June 2023 to lead the department, after earlier service there and more than two decades with Santa Monica Police. The city’s October 8 announcement credits him with expanding peer-support and employee wellness efforts and emphasizing community policing.

Albertson is a 24-year department veteran who has served as commander and in prior acting or interim chief roles. The city says the incoming chief will oversee law enforcement for about 21,000 residents, alongside services to local businesses and visitors.

The appointment provides a succession plan but does not indicate that the new chief has already assumed full responsibility. The city says Federico will remain on the job through December 3 to support the transition.

Residents can follow city announcements for the formal changeover and ask how department priorities, staffing and service measures will be evaluated under the new leadership.

Official source: City of Port Hueneme public notice. Verify later updates, schedules and program availability with the relevant agency.

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