Local & Community

Rick Sanchez Sworn In as Cathedral City Police Chief

Rick Sanchez was sworn in Tuesday as Cathedral City’s new chief of police, formally taking over leadership of the department serving more than 52,000 residents.

Sanchez had been serving as the department’s acting chief since December, when former Chief George Crum retired.

With his swearing-in, Sanchez will now lead the Cathedral City Police Department as its permanent chief.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.

By: NBC Palm Springs

September 8, 2026

Rick SanchezCathedral City Police DepartmentCathedral City police chiefCathedral CityCoachella ValleyGeorge CrumRiverside Countypolice chieflaw enforcement
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New findings reveal what led to the death of Jackie, the beloved bald eagle from Big Bear Valley.

A necropsy confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) as the primary cause of her decline. The infection caused a severe stomach ulcer, internal bleeding, anemia and a secondary bacterial infection.

Testing also detected rat poison in Jackie’s liver, but officials say it was not identified as the primary cause of her death. Tests were negative for West Nile virus, and lead levels were within acceptable limits.

Jackie’s mate, Shadow, remains in Big Bear Valley. Officials say there is no evidence that Shadow or the eaglets are sick.

Jackie’s story captured hearts across the country and brought attention to bald eagle conservation.

#JackieTheEagle #BigBear #BaldEagles #WildlifeConservation #BirdFlu #NBCPalmSprings
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New findings reveal what led to the death of Jackie, the beloved bald eagle from Big Bear Valley. A necropsy confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) as the primary cause of her decline. The infection caused a severe stomach ulcer, internal bleeding, anemia and a secondary bacterial infection. Testing also detected rat poison in Jackie’s liver, but officials say it was not identified as the primary cause of her death. Tests were negative for West Nile virus, and lead levels were within acceptable limits. Jackie’s mate, Shadow, remains in Big Bear Valley. Officials say there is no evidence that Shadow or the eaglets are sick. Jackie’s story captured hearts across the country and brought attention to bald eagle conservation. #JackieTheEagle #BigBear #BaldEagles #WildlifeConservation #BirdFlu #NBCPalmSprings

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Rick Sanchez Sworn In as Cathedral City Police Chief