After more than 30 years of dedicated service to the Watsonville Police Department and community, Chief Jorge Zamora has announced his retirement, with his last official workday set for August 30, 2025.
Chief Zamora began his journey as a police cadet at age 15 and became a full-time officer in 1996. Throughout his career, he served in patrol, SWAT, narcotics, detectives, and as a youth mentor and instructor. In 2022, he became Watsonville’s 16th Chief of Police and the first first-generation Mexican-American to hold the position.
“Thank you, Watsonville, for your trust, support, and partnership,” said Chief Zamora. “I am especially grateful to this community for believing in a young man who grew up in a neighborhood where gang violence was prevalent, and expectations for success for children of farmworkers were low. The odds were against me, but you gave me the opportunity to rise, serve, and lead.”
During his tenure, Chief Zamora led the department through many challenges, including staffing shortages and evolving community expectations around public safety. He created a Chief’s Advisory Board and significantly increased community engagement efforts to build trust and foster collaboration. “I am especially grateful to all of the Watsonville Police Officers, Staff and Volunteers who continue to work hard each day to make a difference in our community,” said Chief Zamora.
“Chief Zamora’s leadership has been instrumental in enhancing public safety and strengthening community trust,” said City Manager Vides. “We are grateful for his years of service and wish him all the best in retirement.”
A thorough and thoughtful recruitment process will soon begin to identify the next permanent Chief of Police. City Manager Tamara Vides will appoint Assistant Chief David Rodriguez as Interim Police Chief until a permanent replacement is named.