After a 27-year career in law enforcement, Vacaville Police Chief Ian Schmutzler will retire on December 31, 2024. Schmutzler has led the Police Department since January 2022. Schmutzler succeeded former Police Chief John Carli (now Mayor) after Carli retired in 2021.

“Serving as Chief of Police has been the greatest honor of my career,” Schmutzler said in a press release. Reflecting on his tenure, he highlighted department improvements, including streamlined operations, strengthened community trust, and record hiring and promotions. His efforts expanded youth programs like PAL and significantly increased the department’s Youth Development staff.

Schmutzler also led the department through some of its most challenging times, including the tragic loss of Officer Matthew Bowen in July of 2024. “I am confident in the department’s resilience and continued dedication to the Vacaville community,” he stated.

Under his leadership, the city secured a $4.4 million state grant to establish a Real-Time Information Center, set to open in 2025, bringing cutting-edge technology to crime-solving efforts.

City Manager Aaron Busch praised Schmutzler’s leadership, calling his impact on public safety and community engagement “exceptional.” The search for his successor will begin in the coming months.

Schmutzler began his career with the Oakland Police Department in 1997 before joining Vacaville in 2000. Over the years, he held key roles, including Field Training Officer, Detective, and Commander of the Field Operations and Support Bureaus.