As I mentioned earlier this week, the Tustin City Council essentially made public the fact that Chief Scott Jordan is leaving the city.

I am always a little leery when high ranking police official resign or say they are retiring. Usually, what happens is they wind up going to another department or to another police related career. Not wanting to remain in the dark, I sent the Chief an email asking about the council’s cryptic announcement. I was pleased more than surprised that he returned my email so quickly.

Chief Jordan explained that he had been considering retirement for some time. Recent family issues accelerated his plans and he now intends to leave the city’s employ on August 23, 2013 after 35 years of police service, the last 8 1/2 as Tustin’s Chief. “I was fortunate to have taken over a very professional agency with outstanding, talented, and committed staff.  I noticed immediately that everyone was committed to providing the best service possible to the Tustin community. It seemed as if there was a good fit between me, members of the Police Department, and the community.”

While Our Town Tustin has occasionally been critical of the Chief, we think he has been a great asset to the community. Through his leadership, the department has gained official accreditation. He refuses to taeke credit saying that he did not have to do anything as the men and women of the Department “did all the work and deserve all the recognition.”

Maybe.

We point out, however, that teamwork doesn’t go far without a good coach. And, Chief Jordan has been the best kind of coach. He has led a first class police department who quickly respond to critical incidents such as the Home Depot murder and the catastrophe that rocked our community earlier this year. All this was accomplished while keeping his typical low profile that has been a hallmark of his tenure.

Scott Jordan will retire after 35 years of dedicated service. He plans to give back to his wife and family as he says they have given to him during his career. He thanks his fellow officers at Tustin Police Department for the honor of leading them as they serve the community.

Good Luck and God Bless, Chief Scott Jordan. You will be missed.