Community
City of Ojai Selects New Chief of Police
Nature of Incident: | City of Ojai Selects New Chief of Police | ||
Report Number: | N/A | ||
Location: | Ojai, CA | ||
Date & Time: | March 14, 2025 | ||
Unit(s) Responsible: |
Sheriff’s Public Information Team | ||
Narrative: |
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The city of Ojai has selected Captain Steven Jenkins as its next Chief of Police. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce Captain Steven Jenkins has been selected as the next Chief of Police for the city of Ojai. Captain Jenkins brings over two decades of law enforcement experience and a strong dedication to serving the community. He will succeed Captain Trina Newman due to her upcoming promotion to commander, continuing the city’s commitment to public safety and community-focused policing. Sheriff Fryhoff praised the selection, stating “Captain Jenkins is a proven leader with extensive experience in investigations, special operations, and community engagement. His dedication and leadership will ensure Ojai remains a safe and welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.” Captain Jenkins began his career with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office in 2000. He has served various assignments, including the Special Enforcement Unit, Honor Guard, Academy Instructor, and Homicide Detective. He also managed East County Investigations, overseeing Major Crimes, the Special Enforcement Unit, Sex Crimes, and Forgery/Fraud. His expertise in investigative work and strategic law enforcement operations makes him a strong fit for his new leadership role. Captain Jenkins holds a bachelor’s in Business Management from California State University Northridge and a master’s in Emergency Services Administration from California State University Long Beach. He is also a graduate of the prestigious Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute, a program dedicated to developing strong, ethical law enforcement leaders. Regarding his selection as the new chief of police, Captain Jenkins stated, “I am honored and humbled to serve as the Chief of Police for the city of Ojai. Ojai is a special community, and I look forward to working closely with our residents, businesses, and local leaders to ensure safety and trust remain at the heart of our policing efforts. I aim to build upon the strong foundation already in place and continue fostering meaningful connections with the people we serve.” Captain Jenkins will officially start his position as the Ojai Police Department’s Chief of Police on April 13, 2025. |
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Prepared by: | Sergeant Monica Smith | ||
News Release Date: | March 14, 2025 | ||
Media Follow-Up Contact: | Sergeant Monica Smith Monica.smith@ventura.org (805) 654-2385 |
Address/Location
Ventura County Sheriff's Office
800 S Victoria Ave
Ventura, CA 93003
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 805-654-9511