Editor’s note: Chief Magnusson has been a longtime and much appreciated contributor to Calibre Press. We wish him all the very best in his retirement. Although we hope he enjoys some relaxation, we’re grateful to hear that he plans to continue writing. Thank you for your many years of service and your dedication to the betterment of law enforcement across the country, Chief!

I stepped down as chief of the El Portal, CA Police Department on November 20 and have decided to leave what has been my calling for the last 36 1/2 years: law enforcement.  In other words, that is it.  I am done and it has been one hell of a ride.   A ride that has fulfilled me more than one could ever imagine.

I boxed for quite some time. It remains a passion. I often speak of it or write of it metaphorically.  With that in mind, let me explain my decision:  I never want to get that Ali Syndrome where I stay in the ring for another fight when I’ve already felt the time may be right to leave. Ali should have retired after the Shavers fight in September 1977. Instead, I prefer to go out like Marciano or Hagler — “That’s it, I’m done.” and not look back.

My last tournament fight was on 20 November 2004. I was 42 at the time.  The last punch I threw in the ring before the final bell was a left hook that dropped my opponent (though it was called a slip.  Yeah, he slipped…after I hit him!) What a perfect time, once that fight was over, to say, “You know what?  It’s been fun.” What a great way to go out. It gets no better than that. I have not looked back.

That is my intention now.

I am equally blessed to know that my 2nd in command ascended to the Chief’s position.  I could not be any prouder. The mayor wanted me to swear my successor in.  How great is that? As with my boxing, the ending was just right–once again on November 20^th, only 17 years after I threw my last punch in the ring.  It does not mean I don’t have any other plans. I am far too hyper to sit still.  There are things of importance left to do, speak up for, and fix if needed. I will still write. I look forward to that. I shall remain with the COVID and Domestic Violent Extremism Committee as part of the Association of the Miami-Dade County Chiefs of Police.

Yes, I feel as though I won a unanimous decision.

So there you have it friends.  That’s it in a nutshell.

Thoughts for former Chief Magnusson? Feel free to e-mail them to: editor@calibrepress.com and we’ll send them on.