PHOENIX — The Phoenix Police Department’s first permanent chief in three years officially took office on Monday.
Matt Giordano, who previously served the force for over 20 years, was selected in July following a nationwide search that at one point restarted from scratch.
“It’s a privilege to lead the Phoenix Police Department at such a pivotal time,” Giordano said in an announcement.
Matt Giordano shares his goals as new Phoenix police chief
An official swearing-in ceremony will take place later this month.
“I am committed to building trust with our community, supporting our officers and ensuring we deliver effective, accountable and compassionate policing,” Giordano said.
Giordano retired from the Phoenix PD as a commander in 2017 and later became executive director of the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST).
He was one of three finalists for the chief alongside Prince George’s County (Maryland) Police Chief Malik Aziz and former DeKalb County (Georgia) Police Chief Mirtha V. Ramos.
“Having served here for more than two decades, I know the challenges we face — but I also know the dedication and talent within this department,” Giordano said. “Together, we will strengthen public safety for everyone in Phoenix.”
The department has lacked permanent leadership since former Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams announced her retirement in 2022. Michael Sullivan then stepped in as interim police chief.
However, Sullivan stepped down from that role in April, dropping his candidacy for the permanent position. This caused the city of Phoenix to restart its search, which ultimately led to Giordano taking on the role.
Why is this a ‘pivotal time’ for the Phoenix Police Department?
The Phoenix Police Department has seen major changes recently. Along with welcoming a new police chief, it’s in the process of moving into a new 27-story headquarters at 100 West Washington Street in downtown Phoenix.
The department’s communications bureau, which is responsible for answering 911 calls and dispatch operations, was the first to make the move.
Another big shift: The Department of Justice (DOJ) dropped its investigation into the department’s alleged pattern of human rights violations in May.
It was a major relief for city officials, many of whom voiced concern about the ramifications of a report from President Joe Biden’s DOJ that found a pattern of human rights violations from officers with Phoenix PD.
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