City HallTuesday, November 3
Ben Valdez is now the permanent chief of the Santa Fe Police Department
The Today in Santa Fe team
If you've wondered who's leading the Santa Fe Police Department, it's official now. Interim City Manager Brian Moya appointed Ben Valdez on Monday, effective immediately. Valdez is a 20-year veteran of the force and has been interim chief since early June.
20 yearsValdez's time on the Santa Fe police force
He has served as interim chief since early June and said he's honored to accept the job.
Source: KRQE NEWS 13
The Santa Fe New Mexican says the choice followed a recruitment process that began earlier this year. It came down to Valdez and Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, who were both announced as finalists.
Valdez and Mendoza were the two finalists for chief
| Finalist | Role |
|---|---|
| Ben Valdez | Interim chief since early June |
| Adan Mendoza | Santa Fe County Sheriff |
Sources: Santa Fe New Mexican, KRQE NEWS 13
- Traffic and DWI enforcement: expanded with Valdez's help
- Drone as First Responder program: he was influential in creating it
- Dedicated bicycle patrol: also created with his influence
Sources: KRQE NEWS 13, Santa Fe New Mexican