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Police

Scottsdale's interim chief of police named permanent leader

Jeff Walther to lead Scottsdale Police Department

Posted 3/6/21

Jeff Walther has been named chief of Scottsdale Police Department by City Manager Jim Thompson.

Mr. Walther, a former Scottsdale assistant chief, came out of retirement to lead the department on an interim …

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Police

Scottsdale's interim chief of police named permanent leader

Jeff Walther to lead Scottsdale Police Department

Posted

Jeff Walther has been named chief of Scottsdale Police Department by City Manager Jim Thompson.

Mr. Walther, a former Scottsdale assistant chief, came out of retirement to lead the department on an interim basis after Chief Alan Rodbell retired in November.

At the time, Mr. Walther’s service was expected to be temporary, but Mr. Thompson soon realized that the 24-year Scottsdale police veteran was the right person to lead the department permanently, according to a press release.

“We were very fortunate to be able to bring back Jeff Walther to lead our outstanding police department after Alan Rodbell retired,” said Mr. Thompson.

“Chief Walther’s ability to step-in seamlessly in an interim capacity was hugely valuable. During these past few months, it has become clear that his experience and relationships within our community, our organization and the police department are exactly what we need moving forward. I am very pleased that he has agreed to remain on a permanent basis.”

Police Chief Jeff Walther began his law enforcement career as a patrol officer in the Scottsdale Police Department in 1994. During his 24-year career, he served Scottsdale as a detective and as SWAT officer before moving into leadership positions in patrol, investigations, and training, the press release stated.

He served as the McKellips District Commander, the Downtown District Commander, and finally as assistant chief over the Uniformed Services Bureau where he oversaw all patrol operations and the Special Operations Division.

“I am honored and excited to begin this new chapter in my police career,” said Chief Walther. “Although these times are challenging, it provides a great opportunity to usher in new ways to address complex public safety issues through collaborative relationships with our citizens. I appreciate the faith and confidence that the City Manager and City Council have placed in me and look forward to serving the members of the Scottsdale Police Department, city staff, and the citizens of this great community.”

In a Facebook post, the official Scottsdale Police Department announced Mr. Walther's appointment. In part, the department's social media account stated Mr. Walther's history in the community: "Chief Walther’s appointment will make him only the second Scottsdale Police Chief who grew up in the department and the first in 30 years, bringing a deep understanding of the department and the community to the position." 

Scottsdale City Manager, Jim Thompson, officially names Interim Police Chief, Jeff Walther, as the 7th Chief of Police...

Posted by Scottsdale Police Department on Friday, March 5, 2021