VACAVILLE, Calif. – City of Vacaville City Manager Aaron Busch announces the appointment of Vacaville Captain Chris Polen as the new Chief of Police, effective January 1, 2025.
A finalist in the 2021 Chief of Police nationwide recruitment and multi-dimensional interview process, Chief Polen brings more than 25 years of law enforcement experience and a deep commitment to the community in which he has lived for a lifetime.
Reflecting on his new role, Chief Polen stated, “It is both an honor and a privilege to be selected as the next Chief of Police in my hometown. I am committed to serving our City, fostering relationships forged by my predecessors, and providing leadership to the police department. I am especially excited about the strides we are making in technology with the new Real Time Information Center (RTIC) that will be activated in the early part of next year. This new technology along with our well-trained police staff and the support of our esteemed community will continue to make Vacaville a safe place to live.”
Chief Polen began his career in law enforcement in 1998 with the City of Suisun City Police Department before joining the Vacaville Police Department in 2000. Over the course of his career, he has served in various capacities, including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, and Detective in the Investigative Services Section. He has held leadership roles as a Sergeant, Lieutenant, and most recently as Captain, overseeing many critical functions of the department including Investigative Services, Training, Internal Affairs, and Hiring and Recruitment.
A dedicated professional, Chief Polen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from National University. He is a graduate of the prestigious Senior Management Institute for Police and the POST (Peace Officers Standards and Training) Executive Leadership Program.
City Manager Aaron Busch enthusiastically shared in his appointment of Chief Polen: “Chris’s extensive experience, leadership skills, and unwavering dedication to our community make him the ideal choice to lead the Vacaville Police Department into the future. I am confident that under his leadership, we will continue to prioritize community safety and collaboration across all City departments to maintain and enhance Vacaville’s outstanding quality of life.”
Outgoing Chief of Police Ian Schmutzler also expressed his support: “I am thrilled that Chris Polen will succeed me as the next Chief of Police. Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of working closely with Chris, and his passion for serving our community is unmatched. His leadership, work ethic, and empathy make him the perfect choice to guide the department and continue ensuring that Vacaville remains a safe and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.”
Chief Polen has been instrumental in guiding the department through significant challenges, including the tragic loss of Officer Matthew Bowen earlier this year. His focus on leadership, collaboration, and community engagement has been central to the department’s success and will remain a cornerstone of his tenure as Chief.
As Chief Polen steps into this new role, he will lead a talented team of dedicated law enforcement professionals committed to serving and protecting Vacaville. His vision includes not only enhancing public safety but also strengthening partnerships with residents, businesses, and schools to ensure that Vacaville continues to thrive as one of the safest cities in Northern California.
Please join us in congratulating Chief Chris Polen on his appointment. A formal swearing-in ceremony will be announced in the coming weeks.