Chief Of Police

The City of Visalia is seeking a highly qualified and experienced law enforcement professional to serve as Chief of Police. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the Visalia Police Department and work collaboratively with the community, City leadership, and department personnel.

The Visalia Police Department has proudly served our community since 1923. Today, we are a full-service law enforcement agency dedicated to protecting the safety and well-being of more than 148,000 residents across 37 square miles. Our team includes 257 full-time employees, with 169 sworn officers committed to making Visalia a safe, thriving place to live. Join a department that’s investing in the future of public safety.

Visalia’s new Civic Center will bring together modern, purpose-built facilities including a new Public Safety Building, dedicated police processing and evidence/storage spaces, expanded training areas, enhanced emergency operations capabilities and plans for a Real Time Information Center. Together with the already-operational Visalia Emergency Communications Center, these upgrades create a more connected, efficient, and technology-driven environment for police and fire services.

The Visalia Police Department is committed to proactive policing, embracing new technologies, and strengthening partnerships with our community to address crime and enhance quality of life. We are honored to serve Visalia through professional police services and by building positive, trusted relationships with those we protect.

Consists of the Records Unit and the Professional Standards Bureau which oversees records management, court and subpoena services, personnel, hiring, policy, and training.

Consists of the Patrol Bureau and the Communications Unit. The Operations Division provides patrol, traffic, commercial, and vital communication and coordination support for the Department. In 2024, the Department fielded 129,325 police calls for service. In 2025, the Department fielded 126,208 police calls for service. The Patrol Bureau operates out of two District Substations, one in each policing district. The Communications Unit operates out of the newly constructed Visalia Emergency Communications Center at the heart of our new Civic Center.

Consists of the Investigations Bureau and the Special Enforcement Bureau. It provides crime analysis, crime lab, digital evidence, property and evidence, youth services, property crime, violent crime, gang and narcotics enforcement for the Department, including two joint task forces with the California Highway Patrol and California Department of Justice.

The City of Visalia is seeking a seasoned and forward-thinking law enforcement professional who values the Department’s history and strong foundation while bringing fresh perspective, innovation, and vision to its continued success. This is an opportunity to lead a respected Police Department, build upon established strengths, and help shape the future of public safety and service in a growing and diverse community.

The ideal candidate for this executive, at-will leadership position will be a seasoned law enforcement professional committed to serving the community with integrity, vision, and purpose. This individual will be energized by the opportunity to lead a modern Police Department, enhance public safety, and foster a culture of professionalism, accountability, and trust. A strategic and forward-thinking leader, the successful candidate will embrace innovation in policing and encourage continuous improvement.

They will be visible, approachable, and highly communicative, with…