This Police Chief Lost Her Gun After Leaving It in Public Bathroom

This Police Chief Lost Her Gun After Leaving It in Public Bathroom

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San Luis Obispo’s police chief posted a video apology Wednesday for losing her gun after leaving it in a restaurant bathroom. Police are looking for a man they believe may have taken the firearm the chief left behind.

Related Story: Gun Lost by Police Chief Recovered After Man Turns in Brother-in-Law

Police Chief Deanna Cantrell said she would offer no excuses for what happened, and that what she did was “irresponsible and careless.”

Looking for Man Who May Have Taken Gun

Cantrell had lunch at an El Pollo Loco about noon Wednesday. She entered a restaurant bathroom and removed the gun, which was holstered, because it wouldn’t remain clipped to her pants, she said.

She realized the gun was gone minutes after leaving the bathroom, but when she returned it was gone.

“I talk about transparency and having a relationship that’s built on trust with our community, so I want to make sure I practice what I believe,” Cantrell says on the video.

According to security video at the restaurant, a man entered the bathroom minutes after Cantrell left it. Police posted an image of the man, who was described as balding and wearing a black jacket, lime green and blue striped shorts, a black jacket, and glasses.

In a statement, San Luis Obispo City Manager Derek Johnson said he had spoken to Cantrell, who apologized to him and agreed to attend training on firearm safety.

“Having carried a firearm safely for 25 years, (Cantrell) is committed to serving as an example of the level of vigilance that must be maintained at all times, regardless of experience or rank,” Johson said in the statement.