“After a lengthy process to find Coalinga’s next Police Chief, I am excited to announce that Jose Garza has been selected,” wrote Coalinga City Manager Marissa Trejo on Monday morning.
His transition from Interim Police Chief to full-time Police Chief will be effective today, February 28, 2022.
Chief Garza has over 40 years of law enforcement experience, a master’s degree in Criminology, a long list of certifications, trainings, affiliations and awards, and years of experience serving as an instructor teaching both Spanish and Gang Awareness at the police academy.
Chief Garza began his career as an Officer with Woodlake Police Department where he worked briefly before moving over to Fresno Police Department (FPD). While with FPD, Chief Garza promoted from Officer to Detective to Sergeant to Lieutenant. Upon retiring as a Lieutenant for FPD, Chief Garza served as the Police Chief for the City of Parlier.
Chief Garza resides in Fresno with his wife of 43 years. Together, they have two adult sons and five grandchildren.
Breakfast with the Chiefs will be held tomorrow morning, March 1, at Cafe 101: 9 AM. Buy your own breakfast, chat with city leaders, and see what’s happening in Coalinga.
