August Vollmer Archives

Berkeley’s first police chief supported eugenics, prompting calls to rename Vollmer Peak

Sept. 152020Sept. 182020

August Vollmer has long been lauded for the innovations he brought to policing. But revelations about some of his beliefs are making people reexamine his legacy.

Berkeley police treasure found in Texas ‘mystery box’

By Emilie Raguso

April 222017July 92021

A priceless artifact from Berkeley police history turned up in a $5 box of books at an estate sale in Texas. How did it come home to Berkeley?

Major new biography, exhibit on August Vollmer, Berkeley’s first police chief

By Frances Dinkelspiel

April 222017Oct. 102020

August Vollmer is known as the “father of modern policing.” A new exhibit and in-depth book will allow more people to learn his story.

Made in Berkeley: ‘Officer 444,’ featuring August Vollmer

By John Seal

Nov. 292012May 112020

Berkeley Police Department’s past continues to influence the officers of today

By Frances Dinkelspiel

March 262010Oct. 102020

Remembering August Vollmer, the Berkeley police chief who created modern policing

By Frances Dinkelspiel

Jan. 272010Sept. 152020