Where can I find the Chief’s Office?

The office of the Chief of Police is located on the second floor of the main police facility at 600 10th Street in downtown Modesto. The Chief of Police and members of his staff can be reached at 209- 572-9501, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Who is the Chief of Police?

ROY W. WASDEN
CHIEF OF POLICE
MODESTO POLICE DEPARTMENT

Roy Wasden was sworn-in as Chief of Police for the City of Modesto Police Department on Monday, August 7, 2000. Before coming to Modesto, Chief Wasden was the Executive Assistant Chief for the Salt Lake City Police Department and brought with him 24 years of law enforcement and teaching experience. He held numerous management positions for the Utah agency, including Acting Police Chief, Investigations Bureau Chief, Operations Bureau Chief, and Technical Services Bureau Chief. 

Chief Wasden earned a business management degree from the University of Utah. He intends to complete a masters program. He strongly believes education is a critical part of being an effective police officer.

Chief Wasden enjoys outdoor activities and his favorite hobby is fly-fishing. He loves to read and spend time with his family.

Who is in the Office of the Chief of Police?

In addition to the Chief Executive Officer of the Department, or the Chief of Police, there are employees who assist in, and coordinate, critical operations within the department and provide department-wide services to the community. The Chief’s staff include an Administrative Analyst, Public Information Officer, Administrative Assistant, Executive Secretary, and Legal Advisor.

What does the Chief do?

Chief Wasden is responsible for setting and administering all police department policies and procedures. He directly supervises three Captains who are responsible for the 24-hour operation of the department and all services to the community. Reporting directly to the City Manager, Chief Wasden provides periodic reports about crime trends within the community, assesses the needs of the community, coordinates law enforcement services, administers a multi-million dollar operating budget and represents the department as its leader at community functions.

When can I see the Chief of Police?

Chief Wasden works Monday through Friday, as a rule, and is often meeting with citizens, community leaders, and business owners. Due to the high interest in law enforcement activities and services, the Chief cannot personally attend to every issue raised. He depends on his staff to make sure that concerns of citizens are addressed in a timely fashion and that services of the department are the highest possible. Often, staff members are able to provide rapid responses to citizens and forward ideas and concerns to other areas of the Department.