Chief Accused of Living in Idaho While Running California Police Department
The chief of police in Millbrae, California, is facing public scrutiny and a potential investigation following reports that he has been commuting from Idaho and staying in makeshift quarters inside the police station during the workweek.
Chief Eamonn Allen, who heads law enforcement operations for the San Mateo County city, is alleged to reside in Boise, Idaho — over 650 miles away. According to records and internal photos reviewed by investigators, Allen has been staying in two rooms recently converted into bedrooms inside the police facility.
Unauthorized Station Modifications Raise Red Flags
Photos obtained through official channels show the converted rooms containing beds, furnishings, and what appears to be a partially consumed bottle of liquor. Reports suggest the modifications were made without acquiring the necessary permits required for residential changes to a public facility.
In at least one instance, a fire inspector was unable to access one of the rooms due to a locked door with a “In Use” sign posted, raising further questions about who is using the space and whether any policies were violated.
County Officials Demand Accountability
San Mateo County Board of Supervisors President David Canepa has called for a formal, independent investigation. “Taxpayer facilities are not personal hotels,” he said. “If someone is living out of state, they should be paying for their own lodging.”
Canepa said he would be submitting a letter to Undersheriff Dan Perea requesting an official probe into Allen’s residency and station use.
City Leaders Caught Off Guard
Millbrae Mayor Anders Fung responded to the findings with concern. “The idea that our police station may be used as living quarters is highly alarming,” he said. “There are expectations for responsiveness, but there are also standards for accountability and transparency.”
Fung plans to bring the matter before the city council and supervisors for a broader discussion about oversight and use of public resources.
Broader Concerns About Out-of-State Law Enforcement Employees
The investigation also revealed that six other San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office sergeants live outside California — in states such as Idaho, Texas, Tennessee, and Nevada. Two of those sergeants are assigned to the bomb squad, a unit that is expected to respond to threats within an hour. Both reportedly earned close to $600,000 each in salary and benefits last year.
Chief Declines to Comment
Chief Allen has not publicly addressed the allegations. When approached by reporters outside a county board meeting, he declined to answer questions about his reported Idaho residence or the converted rooms in the department.
What’s Next?
While the Sheriff’s Office — which contracts with Millbrae for law enforcement services — has not yet released a formal statement, public officials are signaling that the issue will not be quietly dismissed. With growing taxpayer concern and media attention, pressure is mounting for a thorough review of departmental practices.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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