Meet Assistant Chief McGill: A Remarkable Career of Service
Since joining the Pasadena Police Department in 1991, Assistant Chief McGill has devoted more than three decades to protecting and serving our community. Over the years, he has worked patrol and investigations, supervised major divisions, and led specialized units including Crimes Against Children, Financial Crimes, Auto Theft, and the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force. He has also managed critical operations during hurricanes, floods, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic; all while mentoring the next generation of leaders and guiding teams that earned multiple Unit and Chief’s Citations.
In 2024, Assistant Chief McGill was honored as the department’s first recipient of the Leadership Award, recognizing his integrity, accountability, and commitment to those he leads. Public service runs in his family: his late father, Sgt. McGill served more than 40 years with Houston PD and Harris County; his wife, Karen, has served with Baytown PD for 24 years; and his sister Julie works in education supporting students with special needs.
During his promotion ceremony, Assistant Chief McGill reflected on the meaning of leadership and those who helped him along the way. He thanked his mother, Sherry, for shaping him into the person he is today, his wife, Karen, for her constant support, and his family, friends, and colleagues for standing beside him. He shared:
“True leadership is not about rank or title—it’s about service. It’s about supporting the men and women who wear this badge, advocating for our support personnel, and listening to the concerns of our community. I promise to honor that trust by working tirelessly to support our department and strengthen our bond with Pasadena’s citizens.”
His commitments are clear: to support and develop officers, lead with transparency, serve without bias, and keep a servant’s heart, while helping the department evolve with the challenges of today and the needs of tomorrow.
Beyond the uniform, Assistant Chief McGill finds balance in family and the things he enjoys most. He is a proud “Fur Dad” to his German shepherd, Maxwell, and in his free time loves to travel, fish, paint, collect firearms, and spend time with his nieces, Gabby and Mia, and his nephew, Jack.
Please join us in congratulating Assistant Chief McGill on his remarkable career and this new chapter of leadership. We are proud to have him serving the City of Pasadena!
