Message from the Chief

Welcome to the Avenal Police Department

Welcome, and thank you for visiting the Avenal Police Department’s official webpage. My name is Cecilio Velasco, and I have the honor of serving as your Chief of Police.

My journey to this role began long before law enforcement. I was raised in the Central Valley, in a community not unlike Avenal, where family, hard work, and service to others were part of daily life. Those early values continue to guide me today in both my leadership and personal philosophy.

With over 20 years in law enforcement, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles that have shaped my understanding of effective policing. My career has included assignments in patrol, investigations, specialized units, and administration, along with supervisory and command responsibilities. These experiences have grounded me in the realities of the job and deepened my respect for the men and women who dedicate themselves to this profession.

When I was appointed Chief of Police for the City of Avenal in February 2024, I saw not just a department, but a community with untapped potential. Since then, we’ve made important progress by focusing on our core mission: to serve our residents with integrity, courage, and professionalism. We reorganized our structure for greater efficiency, expanded staffing through state and federal funding, and launched the Momentum Policing Model to balance proactive patrol, intelligence-driven enforcement, and meaningful community engagement.

I believe policing is a partnership. Our authority exists through the trust and consent of those we serve. Every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen that relationship. Leadership in this profession must be rooted in accountability, transparency, and heart. That is the culture we are building here in Avenal.

Together, we are working toward a shared vision:

- Avenal becomes one of the safest cities in America

- Our department provides consistent, stable leadership

- We are a competitive agency for recruiting and retaining quality officers

- We are recognized as a model of police and community trust

- We secure a modern public safety facility that supports our mission

- We prioritize employee wellness and professional growth

This is a vision that belongs to all of us. I invite you to be part of the process. Whether through collaboration, feedback, or shared goals, your voice matters in the direction we take as a department and as a city.

Thank you for your continued support and for allowing us to serve with pride and purpose.

Respectfully,

Cecilio Velasco

Chief of Police

Avenal Police Department