Atwater police chief set to retire later this year, according to city officials

Atwater Police Chief Michael Salvador announced he will be retiring from the position later this year, according to the City of Atwater.

Salvador has served as Atwater’s top cop for the past five years and will be officially retiring from the position on Dec. 18, according to a City of Atwater news release.

“Chief Salvador’s experience has benefited our community and we are grateful for his service,” said Atwater Mayor Mike Nelson in the news release. “We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

During his 37 years in law enforcement, Salvador served as an instructor for the West Point/LAPD Leadership course, chairman of the Region 5 Public Safety Interoperable Communications Grant Committee, and the California Police Chiefs Association Legislative Committee.

Salvador was sworn in as Atwater’s top law enforcement official in February 2019. Salvador began his career with the Kerman Police Department where he rose to the rank of sergeant. He also worked for the Madera County Sheriff’s Office where he was promoted to lieutenant before being promoted to the position of undersheriff. Salvador also served as Chief of Police in Coalinga for nearly four years.

During his time Atwater’s police chief, Salvador oversaw a remodel of the police department as well as an electric vehicle implementation and charging depot projects. Salvador has also served as the Madera Unified School District Board of Trustees president and has refereed both high school basketball and water polo.

“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and work alongside such dedicated professionals,” said Salvador in a statement. “It has been an honor to protect and serve the residents of Atwater. “I am confident that the department will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and service.”

This story was originally published July 30, 2024 at 8:13 AM.