City of Phoenix announces finalists in its search for new police chief

The city of Phoenix is moving forward in its nationwide search for a permanent police chief with four finalists. All will be attending a public forum on March 19.

BY ROXANNE DE LA ROSA

Mar 14, 2025, 8:00 PM Updated: 8:05 pm

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Phoenix Police Chief, Phoenix Police Department, City of Phoenix

PHOENIX — The city of Phoenix is moving forward in its nationwide search for a permanent police chief.

One of the finalists, Michael Sullivan, has filled the role as interim police chief for more than two years, after taking over for Jeri Williams in 2022.

Sullivan dealt with the Department of Justice’s 2021 civil rights violations investigation of the Phoenix Police Department.

Some of the findings in the DOJ investigation included patterns of unjustified excessive force, unlawful detainment of unsheltered people and targeted people of color. Sullivan was in charge of reforming the police department in the aftermath.

However, he’s not the only member of Phoenix’s police force whose hat is in the ring.

Who are the Phoenix Police Chief finalists?

In fact, another contender is Ed DeCastro, who has spent 24 years with the Phoenix Police Department. Currently, he works as an assistant chief over investigations.

Another finalist, Ed Wessing, has been with the Mesa Police Department for 29 years.

The fourth finalist, Casey Jonson, spent 23 years with the Oakland, California Police Department.”

The four finalists will attend a public forum at 5 p.m. on March 19 that will allow community members to ask questions and hear from the candidates. The moderated forum will be hosted at the Phoenix City Council Chambers near Second Avenue and Jefferson Street.

The forum will be aired on PHXTV and be available for live streaming on YouTube.

Residents interested in the Phoenix Police Chief recruitment can be a part of the selection process by submitting interview questions.