City Announces Retirement of Police Chief Fabian Valdez

The City of San Fernando announced today that Police Chief Fabian Valdez will retire from the San Fernando Police Department effective June 19, 2026, concluding four years of dedicated service as Chief of Police and more than 28 years of law enforcement.  

Chief Valdez helped guide the Department through important structural and operational improvements designed to strengthen public safety service delivery for San Fernando residents and businesses.   

The Department also advanced key initiatives, including improved emergency preparedness through EOC technology upgrades, implementation of the Police Corporal Program, expanded officer training and wellness support, and strategic hiring to strengthen patrol and leadership capacity.  

The Department strengthened community safety through high-visibility outreach and prevention efforts, including Community Academy programming, Neighborhood and Business Watch meetings, catalytic converter theft prevention, DUI checkpoints, and school-based partnerships that helped build trust, deter crime, and keep San Fernando’s streets safer.  

“Serving as the Chief of Police for the City of San Fernando has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Chief Valdez. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve this remarkable community and work alongside the dedicated men and women of the San Fernando Police Department. Together, we have strengthened our organization, invested in our people, enhanced community trust, and positioned the Department for long-term success. I leave knowing the Department is well-prepared for the future and will continue to serve the community with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.”  

City Manager Kanika Kith thanked Chief Valdez for his leadership and service to the community.  

“Chief Valdez has provided steady leadership during an important period of growth and organizational advancement for the San Fernando Police Department,” said Kith. “His commitment to transparency, and community engagement helped strengthen the Department internally while continuing to prioritize the safety and well-being of our community. The work accomplished during his tenure has helped position the Department for continued progress in the years ahead.”  Kith added, “On behalf of the City Council, City staff, and the San Fernando community, we thank Chief Valdez for his years of dedicated service and wish him continued success and happiness in his new chapter of service.”  

The City will announce the appointment of an Interim Police Chief at a later date.