Fresno’s police chief formally resigned Tuesday following an investigation into allegations that he had an affair with an officer’s wife.
Paco Valderrama, who served as the city’s top police officer for three and a half years, told city leaders in February that charges would likely be filed against him in connection to an inappropriate off-duty relationship, the city said in a statement.
He was placed on administrative leave on June 13 after the city launched an investigation into the affair allegations. The city said the reason for his suspension was “intensified public scrutiny of administrative investigations.”
“This has been an incredibly difficult time for the community, the police department and the families involved,” Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer said in a statement. “Chief Valderrama’s resignation allows us to move forward and allow the police department to continue to focus on its core mission of keeping people safe. We wish Paco and his family the best and thank them for their service to the community.”
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Fresno Police Chief Paco Valderrama announced his resignation at a press conference. (kph)
Fresno Mayor Georgian White said she could not disclose details of the investigation but said the allegations that Valderrama used his position to sabotage the career advancement of police officers were unfounded. “Evidence has been presented to the contrary,” White said.
“This does not justify Chief Valderrama’s actions regarding the inappropriate relationship because, as the chief stated, those actions are unjustifiable, undefensible and fall below the standards we expect from him and our city’s police chief,” White said.
In a statement issued by the city, Valderrama said serving as Fresno’s top police officer is the “honor of a lifetime.”
“The people of Fresno are amazing, diverse and so supportive of our department. You have been kings, tolerant and encouraging when I faced my toughest challenges. Thank you for being there for me. What makes my job rewarding is not the huge responsibilities, the stress of the job or the demanding work – it’s always the people. I will miss the Fresno community and all the employees of the Fresno Police Department. I have no doubt that this group of hardworking and caring officers and professional employees will continue to thrive and accomplish great things. Now is the right time for me to step back and focus on my faith and family. I love you all,” said Valdrama.
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Fresno Police Chief Paco Valderrama has resigned following an investigation into an inappropriate off-duty relationship. (kph)
Fox 26 KMPH reported that Valderrama applied for the vacant police chief position in Austin, Texas.
his name is, Austin American Statesman The newspaper published the names of 32 candidates vying for the city’s police department’s highest-ranking position.
It’s unclear when he applied for the job, but the city reportedly began accepting applications in May, before Valderrama’s infidelity allegations became public.
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Paco Valderrama has served as Fresno’s police chief for nearly four years. (kph)
Valderrama made history as the first Latino appointed police chief in Fresno.
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According to the city, his resignation will be effective July 25. The city will now conduct a nationwide search for a successor.
