Oceanside Police Chief Kedrick Sadler has retired after nearly two years in the position and more than 20 years with the department, the city announced.
The retirement was effective Nov. 10, the city stated in a news release. Assistant Police Chief Taurino Valdovinos replaced Sadler as of Nov. 11.
“We thank Chief Sadler for his long and dedicated service to the Oceanside community,” City Manager Jonathan Borrego said in the city’s announcement. “He’s led the Police Department with the utmost integrity, transparency, and commitment.”
Sadler, who replaced retired former Chief Fred Armijo on April 1, 2023, is a 24-year veteran of the Oceanside Police Department. He served in a variety of roles in the department, from patrol officer and detective to patrol sergeant, Support Operations Division lieutenant and Investigations Division captain.
“Chief Sadler rose through the ranks and has an impeccable law enforcement career marked by strong leadership skills and commitment to community engagement,” the city stated at the time of his appointment in 2023.
A swearing-in ceremony for Valdovinos is set for 3 p.m. Nov. 13 in the City Council Chambers.
Valdovinos has worked on specialized assignments during his time in the department such as the Gang Suppression Unit, Special Enforcement Section and Neighborhood Policing Team, according to the city. He also worked to create the department’s Oceanside Youth Partnership mentor program.
Before becoming assistant chief under Sadler at the start of 2024, Valdovinos was a supervisor in the Patrol Division as a sergeant and later became the sergeant in charge of the Neighborhood Policing Team. As a lieutenant, Valdovinos oversaw the General Investigations Section and Community Policing and Support Operations Section.
“With decades of dedicated service to our community, Chief Valdovinos brings proven leadership and a deep understanding of our City’s public safety needs,” Borrego said in the city’s announcement. “His vision centers on strengthening and leveraging our Police Department’s core values of professionalism, transparency, community engagement, and innovative policing strategies”
Valdovinos holds a bachelor’s degree from Saint Mary’s College and master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati in addition to being a graduate of the FBI National Academy.
He is also an adjunct professor for the University of San Diego’s Law Enforcement & Public Safety Leadership master’s degree program and serves on the Board of Directors for Vista Community Clinic, according to the city.
