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Ventura, Calif. – After a distinguished 36-year career in law enforcement, including the past 30 years with the Ventura Police Department, Police Chief Darin Schindler will retire on December 28, 2024. Chief Schindler’s career has been defined by a legacy of commitment to community trust, transparency, and public safety.
“Reflecting on my years with the Ventura Police Department, I feel immensely grateful for the privilege to serve this community and work alongside such dedicated and talented individuals—both our sworn officers and professional staff,” shared Chief Schindler. “Ventura has been more than just a place to work; it’s been home. I am thankful for the many relationships I’ve built with our residents, business owners, and local leaders, and for the opportunities to work together to make our city a safer, stronger community. It has truly been an honor to serve Ventura.”
A Ventura County native, Schindler began his law enforcement career in 1989 with the Port Hueneme Police Department before joining Ventura Police in 1995. With over 35 years in the field, he has held every rank and served across diverse assignments, including Major Crimes, countywide narcotics, and multiple rotations in Patrol Operations. As a sergeant, he led the Traffic Unit and later supervised Professional Standards and Training. Promoted to Police Commander, he managed Detectives and Records, introduced body-worn cameras, and ultimately became Assistant Police Chief, overseeing all departmental operations.
Since his appointment as Chief of Police in April 2020, Schindler has led with a focus on community engagement, crime prevention, and responsive policing. His achievements include launching the Department’s Mental Health Wellness Program, which introduced annual mental health check-ins and welcomed Ventura’s first therapy dog, Asher, to support officers, staff, and community members in crisis or recovering from trauma. Schindler also spearheaded the Police Explorer Program for high school students and in 2022 revived the Public Safety Community Block Party, a cherished community event, for the first time in 20 years.
“Chief Schindler’s leadership and commitment to fostering a family culture, transparency, and integrity have left a lasting impact on the Ventura Police Department and our community,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “His dedication to building strong relationships, advancing public safety initiatives, and enhancing the well-being of our residents will be his legacy. Ventura is undoubtedly safer because of his service, and we extend our gratitude for his many years of outstanding leadership.”
Chief Schindler has consistently demonstrated a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, holding an Executive Certificate from the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), an Executive Development Certificate from the California Police Chiefs Association, and degrees in Criminal Justice Management and Business Administration. He has served as Chair of the Ventura County Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee and is a graduate of California’s POST Command College and the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Policing.
An Interim Police Chief will be announced in the coming weeks approaching Chief Schindler’s departure.
A nationwide recruitment is currently underway. This executive recruitment is being handled by Bob Murray & Associates. Applications are due by December 15, 2024, at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Jobs.
The public is encouraged to participate in a special hybrid event on December 3 at 6:00 p.m., either in person at the Council Chambers in City Hall, 501 Poli Street, or online. Attendees can provide feedback and guidance on recruitment and selection strategies for this high-profile position. Additionally, a short online survey is also available through December 15, 2024, at www.surveymonkey.com/r/QPHXVJJ.
For more information about the Ventura Police Department, visit www.VenturaPD.org.
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