Investigation underway after I-Team finds Millbrae police chief allegedly commuting from Idaho

Millbrae, Calif. — The Mayor of Millbrae, Anders Fung, has voiced serious concerns following revelations that the city’s police chief, Eamonn Allen, allegedly commutes from Idaho and had been sleeping at the police station during the workweek. The situation came to light after an investigation by the ABC7 I-Team, raising a host of unsettling questions about the chief’s living arrangements and professional availability. Mayor Fung emphasized the need for a thorough probe, stating there’s a lot of troubling info that needs clearing up. Despite multiple opportunities to respond, Chief Allen has remained silent when approached by reporters. The controversy centers on Allen’s dual role as both Millbrae police chief and a captain with the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office. He reportedly stays at the police station on weekdays but drives or flies back to Idaho when off duty — a journey spanning roughly 646 miles or about a 1.35-hour flight. This raises alarms about his ability to respond swiftly in emergencies. Richard Corriea, a former SFPD Commander, criticized the arrangement, calling it “ridiculous” for a first responder to be so far from work and unable to return quickly if urgent situations arise. Tensions escalated at a recent San Mateo County Board of Supervisors meeting, where officials debated the implications of the chief’s living situation. Supervisor Noelia Corzo defended the practice of maintaining sleeping quarters for law enforcement personnel, explaining it's quite common for agencies to provide such accommodations, especially for those working night shifts or who have early court appearances. However, Board President David Canepa voiced concerns about the county footing the bill for employees who live out of state, likening it to treating the county like a "Holiday Inn." The exchange between Canepa and Corzo grew heated, with Canepa stressing the importance of investigating the issue thoroughly and questioning the policy of allowing out-of-state living arrangements funded by the county. Supervisor Ray Mueller had to intervene to restore order during the debate. A key point that remained unaddressed during the meeting was the critical question of how first responders can effectively handle catastrophic events — such as mass shootings or earthquakes — if they live hundreds of miles away and rely on expensive lodging during the workweek. Meanwhile, Chief Allen was present at the City Council's public comment session but left shortly thereafter without commenting on the ongoing investigation. When ABC7’s Dan Noyes later asked Allen if he had found alternative housing besides the police station or had any remarks about the report, the chief declined to respond. The unfolding situation has prompted investigations at both the city and county levels as officials and the public demand clarity and accountability. The case underscores broader issues around law enforcement staffing, resource allocation, and emergency readiness in the region.