Phoenix's search for a new police chief has come to a conclusive end with City Manager Jeff Barton naming Matt Giordano to the post, a former officer with a solid resume that has expanded over three decades within law enforcement circles, according to an announcement from the City of Phoenix's official newsroom.
Giordano is returning to the Phoenix Police Department, where he began his law enforcement career and rose through the ranks before taking on leadership roles, including Executive Director at AZPOST. His appointment is seen as a homecoming and has been met with strong support from city officials and community members, who praise his integrity and teamwork. The selection process was highly competitive, with several interview rounds, public input, and community forums to help guide the decision. The city hopes his leadership will strengthen safety and support ongoing reforms, as reported by the City of Phoenix.
Mayor Kate Gallego expressed her support for Giordano, noting, "I am pleased to welcome back Matthew Giordano to the Phoenix Police Department as our new Police Chief. Chief Giordano has a deep understanding of law enforcement and Phoenix as well as the skills and experience to lead our great department," adding appreciation for Acting Police Chief Dennis Orender's service in a statement obtained by the City of Phoenix's news release.
With an official start date and swearing-in ceremony yet to be determined Giordano has articulated a vision of collaboration, stating, "I’m honored to return to the department where my career began," which he shared in the same release, "I look forward to working alongside the dedicated men and women of the Phoenix Police Department and deepening partnerships with the communities we serve. Together, we will build a safer, stronger and more unified Phoenix," as stated by the City of Phenix.
Backing from community leaders such as Ruben Alvarez, CEO of the Latino Leaders Network, who praised Giordano's understanding of the link between public safety and relationships within the community, "Matt Giordano understands that strong public safety starts with strong community relationships," Alvarez told the City of Phoenix, "We are encouraged by his commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful engagement with all of Phoenix’s diverse communities," supporting the sentiment that his leadership offers a chance to bolster trust among city residents.
