Vacaville officials have appointed a veteran police officer as the city’s new top cop this coming year.

City Manager Aaron Busch announced Tuesday the appointment of Vacaville Capt. Chris Polen, who will be the city’s new Chief of Police effective New Year’s Day.

Polen, who has more than 25 years of law enforcement experience, was a finalist in the city’s 2021 search for a new police chief.

“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,” Polen said in a statement.

He added, “I am especially excited about the strides we are making in technology with the new Real Time Information Center (RTIC), which 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.”

‘The ideal choice’

Polen started in law enforcement in 1998 with the City of Suisun City Police Department before joining the Vacaville Police Department in 2000. According to city officials, he has served in various capacities and held leadership roles.

“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,” Busch said.

Polen will be replacing outgoing Chief of Police Ian Schmutzler, who expressed his support for the new appointment.

“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,” Schmutzler said.