Phoenix’s Police Chief Race Heats Up: Meet the Three Finalists

PHOENIX — The city has unveiled three finalists in its search for a new police chief, following the decision to restart the recruitment process. This development comes after Michael Sullivan opted not to pursue the position, prompting a reevaluation of the candidate pool.

On Wednesday, the city announced the names of the new candidates who will be in the running to lead the Phoenix Police Department. A public forum is scheduled for June 16 in the Phoenix Council Chambers at 5 p.m., providing residents an opportunity to hear directly from the finalists. The event will also be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube channel.

The finalists include Aziz, who previously served as police chief in Prince George’s County, Maryland, and has a long history with the Dallas Police Department. His tenure followed a series of racial justice protests, during which he was tasked with implementing reforms.

Another candidate, Giordano, is currently the executive director of the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board, overseeing officer discipline. His background includes positions as a commander in the Phoenix police and executive chief of enforcement for the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.

Ramos has an extensive career with the Miami-Dade Police Department, where she climbed to the rank of division chief. Most recently, she served as the police chief in DeKalb County, Georgia, becoming the agency’s first permanent female chief. She stepped down earlier this year at the request of local authorities.

A final decision on the new permanent police chief is anticipated in July, marking a significant move for the Phoenix Police Department.