Chief of Police Scott Wahl has served the San Diego Police Department since 1998. 

He is the 2nd generation of his family to serve San Diego – his father Michael was an SDPD officer for 35 years when, in 2004, he retired at the rank of Detective. 

During his career Chief Wahl obtained a diverse background and varied experience in policing that includes challenging issues like homelessness, mental health, drug and alcohol addiction, and media relations.

Chief Wahl was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police in September 2023. He was responsible for special projects and legislative affairs. 

On March 21, 2024, Mayor Todd Gloria nominated Assistant Chief Wahl to serve as Chief of Police upon the retirement of David Nisleit. 

He was sworn in on June 7, 2024. Less than one week later Chief Wahl announced a significant restructuring plan to the department. Among the changes was the re-surection of the one star rank of Commander and civilianizing numerous command positions. 

MEET THE COMMAND STAFF
Assistant Chief
Shawn Takeuchi
Assistant Chief
Daniel Grubbs
Operations

Commander
Benjamin Kelso
Neighborhood Services
Assistant Chief
Benjerwin Manasala
Planning Section

Assistant Director
Kyle Meaux
Finance
Commander
Ryan Hallahan
Special Operations
Commander
Rick Aguilar
North Patrol Branch
Captain
Matt Dobbs
Captain
Albert Ambito
Commander
Juan Sanchez
South Patrol Branch
Captain
Jeff Peterson
Commander
Anthony Dupree
Investigation Branch

Captain
John "Wes" Morris
Captain
Jerry Hara
Captain
Mike Ramsay
Assistant Chief
Adam Sharki
Logistics
Captain
Jud Campbell
Captain
Steven Waldheim
Captain
Michael Swanson
Captain
Arturo Swadener
Captain
Jonathan Lowe