The Scottsdale Police Department has announced that Chief Jeff Walther has been named Arizona’s “Chief of the Year” by Arizona Association of the Chiefs of Police.

According to a press release, this award is focused on three key aspect’s of Walther’s tenure as Scottsdale Police chief: his commitment to community; his success and leadership within his organization; and his dedication to AACOP and its mission.

Walther was named interim police chief in November 2020, after former chief of police Alan Rodbell retired. In March 2021, Walther was named permanent police chief.

To receive this AACOP award, Chief Walther received endorsements and recommendations from multiple members of the state, county, and municipal law enforcement leaders for this honor, the press release states.

Ken Cost, city of Mesa chief of police, an AACOP board member stated, “Chief Jeff Walther embodies servant leadership. He is someone who cares deeply for his community and for every one of his employees. Chief Walther in a short time has moved his already progressive department into an even higher level and has done so by being inclusive of the communities needs and the members of his department. Chief Walther works seamlessly with other city staff and has built positive relationships over the years to achieve high level goals for the city and the police department.”