This week, the City of Santa Paula announced the resignation of Interim Chief of Police Matt Rodriguez, effective later this month. Chief Rodriguez began his tenure as Interim Chief on November 19, 2019, after long-term Chief of Police Steve McLean went to Baldwin Park Police Department. Rodriguez’s departure allows him to pursue both personal and professional opportunities, not available here in Santa Paula.
Chief Rodriguez has been focused on the internal processes of the police department, and has instilled new policies related to weapons training and administration, evidence storage and tracking, records keeping, and improved standards in the training and reserve officer programs.
During his tenure, Rodriguez dealt with some high-profile gang incidents, a nationally-televised arson incident, the Maria Fire, and the unfortunate passing of a station dispatcher. He was also present for the hiring of an animal control officer, a new police officer, and recently saw two officers graduate from the Rio Hondo Police Academy. “Chief Rodriguez achieved a number of important objectives aimed at improving our organization and operations” stated Mayor Rick Araiza.
Rodriguez stated, “I have been honored with serving in Santa Paula the past seven months. The city leaders, community, and fine men and women of the police department have been a true pleasure to serve. It’s bittersweet that I leave the city, but other professional opportunities and family obligations are forcing me to return home. I will miss this community and will forever be grateful for the opportunity I received here. The majestic view of south mountain, the planes at the airport, and old town Main Street will forever be etched in my memory.”
Rodriguez also praises the hard work of the police officers in the department who he says are “deeply committed to keeping this community safe.” Rodriguez said, “make no mistake about it, because of their hard work and dedication, there hasn’t been a noteworthy crime in this city for three months. I don’t know of too many cities who can boast about that statistic.”
Rodriguez will remain in office until March 27, 2020, upon which time he will be replaced on an interim basis by Retired Assistant Chief of Police Ismael “Ish” Cordero. “Cordero is a long-term veteran of this organization, a resident of Santa Paula, and a fixture in this community. I’m confident fill the role in leading this police department until a permanent chief is named.”
The Chief of Police position is slated to be advertised within the coming week at which time a nationwide search will begin. The process will include panels comprised of local law enforcement executives, community and department members, city council, city staff, and ultimately the final decision will be made by the City Manager.
“This is an important time of transition for our Police Department, but I’m confident the men and women dedicated to this community will continue to do outstanding and effective work keeping our community safe,” Mayor Araiza concluded.
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