San Jose promotes Acting Police Chief Paul Joseph to permanent position
The San Jose Police Department's search for a new police chief has ended with the promotion of Acting Police Chief Paul Joseph to the full-time position.
Joseph has been serving as interim chief since the March 31 retirement of former Chief Anthony Mata who left the department to be the investigations bureau chief for the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office.
Joseph was appointed by City Manager Jennifer Maguire and his appointment was confirmed by the City Council following a nationwide recruitment, according to a press release from the city.
"I have seen Paul Joseph stand by injured officers during their worst moments, stand firm when our community is threatened and stand up to take responsibility for our department — in good times and bad," said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan in a prepared statement. "He is exactly the person we need to help rebuild our ranks, test innovative new approaches and ensure the people of San José are safe and protected."
A 30-year veteran of the department, Joseph was appointed assistant police chief in 2021 after rising through the ranks as a detective, sergeant, lieutenant and captain. He joined the department in 1994 after a brief stint as a San Mateo police officer.
As a captain, Joseph was the commanding officer of the department's Western Patrol Division. As a lieutenant, he worked in the homicide, robbery, and patrol divisions.
"I am excited to take this next step in my career, said Joseph in a press statement. "It is an honor and a privilege to lead the amazing men and women of the San Jose Police Department."
Joseph grew up in Los Angeles, earned a bachelor's degree in political science from California State University, Northridge, and a law degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (former UC Hastings College of Law).
The San Jose Police Officers' Association issued a statement Tuesday commending his appointment.
"Selecting Paul Joseph as San Jose's next police chief was a wise decision by our city leaders," said SJPOA president Sgt Steve Slack. "Chief Joseph brings a wealth of experience, innovative ideas, and a collaborative nature to a department he knows inside and out. Chief Joseph will need all of those traits as we get to work keeping the residents of San Jose safe by increasing staffing, improving morale, and strengthening community policing. Congratulations Chief."
