Santa Paula Chief of Police Travis Walker has announced his plans to retire effective October 2, 2022.
“Chief Walker has submitted his resignation to me, and I appreciate him proactively working with our City team to plan a smooth transition in leadership for our Police Department. Following the immediate search for an interim Chief of Police, the City will conduct a thorough search for a long-term leader to head up the department,” said City Manager Dan Singer. “The Chief’s leadership in building a strong foundation to better serve our community has been monumental, and we will continue to move in that direction. I am grateful for his service to this Department and this community.”
Under Chief Walker’s leadership, Santa Paula has not experienced any homicides for the last two years and has seen a significant reduction in Part I crimes. Chief Walker successfully secured funding to replace outdated equipment and was successful in obtaining grant funding to purchase a vehicle with advanced technological tools to enhance the Department’s capabilities. Additionally, he diversified the Police Department by hiring two female officers and three Hispanic officers and provided his team with training and development opportunities including ensuring all officers are trained in crisis intervention.
“Serving as the Chief of Police for this City has been a great honor, and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to serve the residents and businesses of Santa Paula. I have formed some valuable relationships with both staff and community members that I will forever cherish,” noted Chief Travis Walker. “I have been very fortunate to work alongside some of the committed men and women of the Santa Paula Police Department who work day in and day out to keep our community safe. Although leaving this profession after 25 years is bittersweet, I am looking forward to my post-retirement adventures with my family.”
The City Manager will promptly begin the transition process and will conduct a formal recruitment for a successor and appoint an interim Chief of Police during the remainder of the search. The City is committed to making this a thorough and inclusive recruiting process and will provide updates as decisions are made.