Oakdale Chief of Police Scott Heller has announced his intention to retire effective August 27, 2021. He has served as the chief of police in Oakdale for the past five years.
“It has been a privilege and honor to serve this wonderful community. The timing to step back is right for me and my family,” said Chief Heller, “The Oakdale Police Department is well supported by our great community with a team that is well prepared for the future. I look forward to remaining in the community with family and friends.”
Under Chief Heller’s leadership, Oakdale has seen a consistent drop in crimes over the past several years as compared to its five-year crime average. A strong emphasis has been placed on community engagement efforts and the increased use of technology within the department. Additionally, OPD implemented the use of body worn cameras, a real time crime center in the cloud capturing live and recorded video throughout the city, an unmanned aerial vehicle program, a rapid response tactical team, along with entering the accreditation process with the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
Before becoming the police chief in Oakdale, Heller served 17 years with the Modesto Police Department and as the police chief in Placerville for 3 years.
“The Oakdale Community is fortunate to have had Chief Heller lead the Oakdale Police Department,” said City Manager Bryan Whitemyer. “His commitment to constant improvement and serving the community is unparalleled. It has truly been a privilege to work with Chief Heller over the last five years.”