Incoming Rancho Cordova Police Department Chief Matthew Tamayo. Photo courtesy of RCPD

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The City of Rancho Cordova is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Tamayo as its new Rancho Cordova Chief of Police, effective November 2023.

Tamayo, a Sheriff’s Captain with over 20 years of law enforcement experience with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, fills the role to be vacated by current Chief of Police Brandon Luke, who will retire in November 2023.

Tamayo started his law enforcement career with the Sacramento Sheriff's Office and held numerous assignments including Corrections, Patrol, Problem Oriented Policing (POP) Officer, Gang Detective, Narcotics Detective, Internal Affairs, and most recently as the Commander of the Training and Education Division. Tamayo also previously served the Rancho Cordova Police Department (RCPD) as a Patrol Supervisor, Patrol Watch Commander, Operations Commander and Assistant Police Chief.

“The City of Rancho Cordova is delighted to welcome Matthew Tamayo as our new Chief of Police,” said City Manager Micah Runner. “His previous experience at RCPD, extensive law enforcement background and commitment to the City of Rancho Cordova make him an outstanding choice to serve our community.”

Tamayo has prioritized training throughout his career and has instructed numerous courses, including Principled Policing and the Sheriff's Leadership Program. His dedication to learning and teaching his peers has been a priority throughout his career. Tamayo graduated from Union Institute and University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management.

“I am honored to once again be serving the tight-knit community of Rancho Cordova and to continue fostering community relationships and partnerships to keep all residents safe,” said Chief Tamayo.

Tamayo has been committed to building relationships and trust through community involvement and transparency throughout his career. With his experience previously working as a sergeant and lieutenant in the City of Rancho Cordova and knowledge of the diverse neighborhoods, Tamayo strived for community involvement in all his efforts.

In addition to serving as Rancho Cordova’s Chief of Police, Tamayo will also serve as Commander of the Sheriff’s Office East Division out of the Kilgore Police Station. 

The city will host opportunities in the near future for the community to meet Chief Tamayo. Sign up to receive regular updates at CityofRanchoCordova.org/ENews and follow the city and Rancho Cordova Police Department on social media.