Matt Giordano Appointed Chief of Phoenix Police Department

Categories: Arizona Breaking NewsArizona State News

The headquarters of the Phoenix Police Department, symbolizing community safety and law enforcement.

News Summary

Matt Giordano has been appointed as the new chief of the Phoenix Police Department by the City of Phoenix on July 8, 2025. With over 30 years in law enforcement, including over 20 years with the department, Giordano was selected after a national search. His appointment follows efforts to rebuild trust within the department and community. City officials express optimism about Giordano’s local experience and commitment to enhancing public safety as the city addresses ongoing challenges in law enforcement.

Phoenix, Arizona – Matt Giordano has been appointed as the new chief of the Phoenix Police Department, marking an important transition for the city’s law enforcement. The announcement was made by the City of Phoenix on July 8, 2025. Giordano brings with him over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, including more than 20 years with the Phoenix Police Department before his retirement as a commander.

Currently serving as the executive director of the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST), Giordano was selected as the top candidate after a comprehensive nationwide search. This search was reignited in December 2024 after the initial search did not yield a satisfactory candidate. Giordano was one of three finalists for the position, ultimately chosen over Prince George’s County Police Chief Malik Aziz and former DeKalb County Police Chief Mirtha V. Ramos. Crucially, Giordano is the only finalist with extensive local experience within the Phoenix area.

City Manager Jeff Barton emphasized that the selection of Giordano reflects input from residents, officers, and various community stakeholders, signaling an effort to ensure community involvement in police leadership decisions. Giordano expressed his honor at the opportunity to lead the department where his career began, committing to work closely with the community to enhance public safety.

Mayor Kate Gallego expressed confidence in Giordano’s leadership skills as he takes the helm of the department during a period of ongoing reforms aimed at improving trust and morale. Giordano’s appointment also fills a significant gap, as he will be the first permanent police chief since Jeri Williams retired in September 2022. Michael Sullivan had served as interim police chief until he withdrew from consideration in April 2025; he was later appointed as chief of the U.S. Capitol Police. Dennis Orender has been acting as chief since Sullivan’s departure.

Giordano’s official swearing-in date will be scheduled after background checks and hiring standards are successfully completed. This process is crucial for establishing his authority and leadership over the department. The Phoenix Law Enforcement Association (PLEA) indicated that rebuilding trust and boosting morale within the police department remain vital objectives moving forward.

The Phoenix Police Department has faced significant challenges, including an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice that reported patterns of civil rights violations last year. Giordano’s experience and community ties might play a crucial role in addressing these ongoing concerns while fostering a more positive and cooperative relationship between the police and the community.

As Phoenix continues to grapple with these pressing issues, Giordano’s previous service as a commander and his role within AZPOST may serve to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community. His leadership will be closely watched as he implements strategies to improve public safety and restore faith in the department.