Arroyo Grande names new police chief, promoting a familiar face
The Arroyo Grande Police Department has a new police chief.
City manager Matt Downing announced the selection of Cmdr. David Culver as the next chief, according to a news release from the city.
Culver, who’s served as the city’s interim chief since May 30 and joined the Arroyo Grande Police Department in 2019, was selected at the conclusion of a nationwide recruitment process, according to the release.
“I am honored and excited to have been selected to be the next chief of police for the city of Arroyo Grande,” Culver said in the release. “This is my family’s home, so I am excited for the opportunity to continue serving and giving back to the community.”
Culver is a law enforcement veteran of 17 years, serving in the Santa Maria Police Department prior to his joining the Arroyo Grande Police Department, according to the news release.
Promoted to commander three years ago, Culver has served as a field training officer, patrol sergeant, watch commander, SLO Regional SWAT assistant tactical commander, support division commander and patrol division commander over his career, according to the release.
While serving as a commander, Culver has been responsible for patrol, detectives, evidence, training, administrative services and a variety of other tasks, according to the release.
He served as a member of the Santa Maria SWAT team, where he worked as a special victims detective, community service officer and firearms instructor, according to the release.
Culver has also served as the academy instructor at Allan Hancock College’s Law Enforcement Program since 2019, and he holds a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice from California Coast University, according to the release.
“We are fortunate to have found our next chief of police to continue our tradition of service to the city of Arroyo Grande,” Downing said in the release. “David Culver’s qualifications, proven commitment to public service and the city of Arroyo Grande, love for the community, and vision for the department to cultivate and promote community trust with all residents and visitors, make him the ideal candidate to lead our Police Department into the future.”
The City Council is expected to confirm Culver’s appointment on Aug. 12, and he will begin his service as chief on Aug. 15, according to the release.
A swearing-in ceremony is planned for the Aug. 26 City Council meeting, according to the release.
