Paso Robles hires new police chief who once worked there as an officer
The City of Paso Robles has hired a new police chief after a nationwide search.
Damian Nord, who assumed his position on Tuesday, previously worked for the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, according to a news release from the city.
Nord most recently served as the chief deputy assigned to the Investigations and Detentions Bureaus, the release said, and started his career with Kern County in 1998 as a detentions deputy.
Nord worked his way up the ranks, holding positions as deputy sheriff in 2001, as well as a detective, sergeant, lieutenant and commander, the release said. In 2007, Nord moved to Paso Robles, where he worked as a police officer for a time.
He holds a bachelor of science degree in emergency management and attended the Executive Leadership Program at USC Price School of Public Policy, according to the release.
“I’m excited the city was able to recruit a top-notch police chief like Damian Nord,” City Manager Ty Lewis wrote in the news release. Lewis was the police chief for the Paso Robles Police Department for three years before being appointed to the city manager role in August 2021.
“Chief Nord brings a wealth of experience, strong character, and positive energy to our community,” Lewis said. “Chief Nord’s proven ability to effectively work with diverse communities, like Paso Robles, will serve us well.”
Nord is replacing Interim police Chief Stephen Lampe, who is retiring at the end of 2021. Lampe replaced Lewis after he moved into the city manager position.
Nord currently lives in Bakersfield and is in the process of relocating to the Paso Robles area, according to the release.
“I am honored to be joining the City of Paso Robles and a team of talented professionals,” Nord said in the release. “I look forward to working with everyone to keep the city safe, build trust and strong partnerships throughout the community.”
