The City of Mesa announced today that interim Police Chief John Meza has been selected as the new Police Chief. Meza, a former Assistant Chief, has been with the City of Mesa for more than 28 years.
Meza was appointed Interim Police Chief Feb. 2 to replace Chief Frank Milstead who was selected by Governor Ducey as the new Director of Public Safety. Meza served as an Assistant Chief for seven years, most recently overseeing the Operations Bureau, and three years as Commander over the Central Command. He served as a Lieutenant for six years and a Sergeant for seven years. Meza was hired in 1986.
"John has shown tremendous leadership ability, not only in his short time as Interim Police Chief, but in numerous assignments with the organization," City Manager Chris Brady said. "He has well established relationships with the rank and file members, other City departments and community groups and is dedicated to our mission to serve the community."
As a police executive, Meza was instrumental in developing and implementing various innovative programs including the Compstat approach to data-driven policing. The Mesa model has become a model for other police departments throughout Arizona and has been a key aspect of reducing crime in Mesa.
"I am extremely honored to have been selected as your Police Chief and give my heartfelt thanks to those who have extended to me this opportunity," Chief John Meza said. "I am also honored to be chosen to lead the extraordinary men and women of the Mesa Police Department. It is because of them our department is recognized nationally for its innovation and crime-fighting model. I intend to continue this and also continue to engage with our community. This commitment is critical to the successful operation of any police department. Crime fighting, with community engagement, has been and is a top priority at the Mesa Police Department."
Meza received a Business Management degree from the University of Phoenix and M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member at Mesa Community College within the Administration of Justice Program, is a member of the board of directors for Community Bridges, Inc. and is a 2004 graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety Police Staff and Command School.
The Mesa Police Department has 1,212 employees, a budget of $165 million and is recognized nationally for its innovation and use of technology.
Public Information and Communications
Contact: Steve Wright
Tel. 480-644-2069
steven.wright@mesaaz.gov