With the City of Escondido’s chief of police position yet to be filled following his departure, Chief Ed Varso has made the decision to return to his former employer where he served for over twenty years. Chief Varso felt comfortable making this decision based on the Menifee Police Department’s strong foundation and internal leadership.
“Since its launch in July 2020, the Menifee Police Department has attracted the best and brightest officers and personnel from all across California,” said Chief Varso. “I believe the team here is well-suited to carry on the operations of the police department and continue its successful trajectory well into the future.”
Captain Chris Karrer, who has served with the Menifee Police Department since its inception, has been appointed the interim chief of police by City Manager Armando G. Villa. Captain Karrer is a U.S. Marine veteran and has over 20 years of local law enforcement experience overseeing numerous divisions including patrol, traffic, investigations, operations, and support services.
“It has been an honor serving Menifee along with the exceptional men and women of the Menifee Police Department who selflessly put their lives on the line every day to protect our community,” said Karrer. “I look forward to building upon our success and continuing to grow the department with talented officers and support staff.”
Chief Varso’s last day with Menifee will be Saturday, December 17, 2022.
“During his short time here in Menifee, Chief Varso made a strong positive impact on his officers and our community,” said Villa. “We thank him for his service and know the department will be in good hands under the direction of Captain Karrer.”
Captain Karrer will assume his new duties on December 18, 2022. The next steps in the appointment of a permanent police chief are in development.