Getting your
Trinity Audioplayer ready...An interim police chief was named to lead the San Leandro Police Department while its current chief remains on paid leave after the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office charged her with misdemeanor hit-and-run after a May 2025 incident on Interstate 580 in Pleasanton.
City Manager Janelle Cameron announced Joseph Kreins would serve in the interim role, a move to provide leadership and accountability within the department while Chief Angela Averiett is on paid leave, according to the city.
“I am honored to serve the city of San Leandro during this important time,” said Kreins. “I look forward to working with department personnel, city leadership, and the community to build upon the progress already underway and continue fostering trust, accountability, and excellence in public service.”
Averiett was placed on paid administration leave after her alleged involvement in an off-duty highway collision on eastbound I-580 near Pleasanton on May 19, 2025, was revealed by an ABC 7 investigation.
Driving an unmarked police vehicle, Averiett clipped the driver’s side mirror of another vehicle, according to ABC 7. After the collision, Averiett reportedly turned off her car’s lights, crossed four lanes and exited the highway.
Averiett said she did not realize she had struck another vehicle.
She said she later told the California Highway Patrol that her behavior on the highway was caused by chest pain that went away after she exited the highway. Averiett reportedly did not seek medical assistance.
Kreins is a 45-year police veteran with a history of service in the Bay Area. He has served as chief of police for the cities of Sausalito, Novato, and Vallejo.
“Chief Kreins brings a wealth of experience and a proven record of leadership that will help ensure stability and continuity within the police department,” Cameron said. “His commitment to accountability, community engagement, and organizational excellence aligns with the values of our organization and the expectations of our community.”