Phoenix Names Matt Giordano Police Chief After Nationwide Search

Matt Giordano has been appointed as the new chief of the Phoenix Police Department after a nationwide search and public forum, succeeding interim chief Michael Sullivan. Giordano, a former Phoenix police commander and current executive director of the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board, was the only finalist with local experience and brings over three decades of law enforcement expertise. His selection, made by City Manager Jeff Barton, was praised for his integrity, accountability, and ability to build trust, qualities valued by both community stakeholders and the powerful police union, which supports his leadership. Giordano has pledged to strengthen community partnerships and foster a culture of fairness and accountability within the department, emphasizing respectful and transparent officer discipline. The department has faced challenges including a DOJ investigation and a shortage of officers, making his leadership pivotal at this time. Giordano’s start date will be finalized pending completion of hiring standards and background checks.