John Murray announced as Assistant Chief of Police of Salinas

SALINAS, CALIF. (KION-TV)- The search for an assistant chief of police in Salinas is over. The City of Salinas announced on Friday that John Murray will take over the position effective Monday, January 29th.

Murray has lived in Salinas for 32 years and has been a part of the Salinas Police Department for 27 years. Most recently, Murray was the Commander in the Field Operations Division.

During his time with Salinas PD, Murray has been ranked as an officer, sergeant, and commander. He served in multiple positions that included a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Recruit Training Officer at the academy, and served in special assignments like the Violence Suppression Unit, Narcotics/Vice Unit, Investigations Bureau, and the Administration Division.

On top of working for police, Murray served 16 years on the SWAT team, with 8 years as a Team Leader, and 4 years as SWAT Commander.

Chief Murray spoke about the opportunity to fill a position recently opened by former assistant chief Manuel Martinez.

“Salinas is my community and my home, and I’m truly humbled to have the opportunity to serve my community as the Assistant Police Chief,” Chief Murray said. “This is both an honor and a great responsibility, and I’m committed to serving the City of Salinas and the men and women of the Salinas Police Department.”

As Assistant Chief, Murray will serve as the Acting Police Chief until the next Chief of Police has been hired.