Chula Vista Police Chief Faces Ouster Over Holiday Party Striptease

Roxana Kennedy accused of putting $2 in officer's pocket after he removed his shirt at department party

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Chula Vista Police Chief Roxana Kennedy is facing potential dismissal over a striptease incident that occurred at the department's holiday party in December 2025. According to her attorney, Kennedy placed $2 in the pocket of an officer who removed his shirt during a dance-off at the party. The police union has voiced support for Kennedy, who has been with the department for over 30 years, but the city has not commented on the specifics of the incident or any potential disciplinary actions.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges that can arise when workplace celebrations cross professional boundaries, and the potential consequences for senior law enforcement officials when such incidents become public. It also raises questions about the relationship between the police chief, the police union, and city leadership.

The details

At the Chula Vista Police Department's holiday party on December 13, 2025, two off-duty officers participated in a dance-off during a raffle. According to Kennedy's attorney, one of the officers removed his shirt, and Kennedy then placed $2 in the officer's pocket and bowed before returning to her seat as the crowd cheered. The incident has led to speculation that Kennedy may be ousted from her position as police chief.

  • The holiday party incident occurred on December 13, 2025.
  • Kennedy went on medical leave at the end of January 2026, leading to speculation about her job status.
  • On February 11, 2026, Kennedy's attorney sent a letter to the city asking it to preserve evidence related to 'allegations of improper discipline, retaliation, discrimination and/or a hostile work environment.'

The players

Roxana Kennedy

The police chief of Chula Vista, California, who has been with the department for over 30 years and has held the top position since 2016.

Cory Briggs

The attorney representing Roxana Kennedy, who has accused the city of a 'months-long conspiracy to pressure her to quit the force.'

David Martinez

The Chula Vista police sergeant and president of the police union, which has unanimously voted to back Kennedy amid the turmoil.

John McCann

The mayor of Chula Vista, who has defended Kennedy and said she has been an 'exceptional leader.'

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What they’re saying

“Something that was jovial and jocular and innocent among adults is now being twisted into something that wasn't.”

— Cory Briggs, Attorney representing Roxana Kennedy (San Diego Tribune)

“She has been an exceptional leader. I want to make sure that we can get back to having the city run in a good, positive way, because she has done an incredibly great job as the police chief.”

— John McCann, Mayor of Chula Vista (N/A)

What’s next

The city has said it is 'prohibited from commenting on specific actions related to the 2025 holiday party or any individual personnel matter,' citing 'legal constraints.' It remains to be seen whether Kennedy will face any disciplinary action or if she will be able to return to her position as police chief.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the delicate balance that law enforcement leaders must maintain between professional conduct and fostering a positive workplace culture. While the holiday party striptease may have been intended as harmless fun, the fallout underscores the heightened scrutiny that police chiefs face and the potential consequences for even minor missteps.