City of Ventura names David Dickey as next Chief of Police

Ventura, Calif. — The City of Ventura is proud to an­nounce the selection of David Dickey as its next Chief of Police. A longtime Ventura County resident and an ac­complished law enforcement leader, Dickey brings 30 years of dedicated service, including more than two decades lead­ing within the Ventura Police Department – most recently serving five years as Assistant Chief.

Following a rigorous na­tionwide selection process, his appointment reflects the City’s commitment to strategic, cul­ture driven leadership focused on proactive policing, com­munity engagement, and a thriving future for Ventura.

Dickey will officially as­sume his new role on May 16, 2025.

“We are excited to welcome Chief Dickey as the next leader of the Ventura Police Depart­ment,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “His extensive experi­ence, collaborative leadership style, and dedication to the community make him well-equipped to address evolving public safety challenges with professionalism.”

Chief Dickey is a highly credentialed law enforcement professional with a Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego. His executive-level certifications include POST Executive Development and Management, California Po­lice Chief’s Executive Leader­ship, and graduation from the POST Command College and California Police Chiefs’ Asso­ciation’s Executive Leadership Institute.