MEDFORD, Ore. (May. 7, 2026) — Medford officials have selected longtime Medford Police Department leader Trevor Arnold as the city’s next chief of police, pending formal approval by the City Council later this month.
The Medford City Council authorized Interim City Manager John Vial to extend an offer of employment to Arnold, which he has accepted. Council members are expected to formally consider the appointment during their May 20 meeting, with Arnold’s swearing-in anticipated at the June 3 council meeting.
Arnold currently serves as deputy chief and has spent more than 27 years with the department. He began his career in 1998 as a community service officer and later served in every rank within the organization.
“Trevor brings extensive operational experience, strong regional partnerships, and a deep understanding of the Medford community,” Vial said in a statement announcing the selection. “His leadership within the department, commitment to public safety, and investment in organizational development made him well-suited to lead the department forward.”
As deputy chief since 2021, Arnold has overseen department operations, strategic initiatives, major investigations and regional public safety partnerships. City officials said he also helped establish the department’s Livability Team and has led critical incident response efforts, officer development programs and community engagement initiatives during his career.
Arnold said he was honored to be selected for the role.
“This department is filled with dedicated professionals who care deeply about this community,” Arnold said. “I look forward to continuing to build trust, strengthen partnerships, and support the important work our officers and staff do every day.”
Arnold would succeed Justin Ivens, who announced earlier this year that he would retire after more than three decades with the department.
Discover more from Medford Alert News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
