Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama has announced his resignation following an internal investigation into an inappropriate off-duty relationship.

The investigation, which began in February 2024, found no evidence of misconduct related to his professional duties. However, the findings raised concerns about personal judgment, ultimately leading to his decision to step down.

The news has sparked discussions about leadership ethics, accountability, and the impact of personal choices on public trust. City officials have assured residents that the transition will be handled smoothly while they search for a new chief.

Details of the Investigation

The investigation into Chief Balderrama’s conduct was initiated after he self-reported an inappropriate off-duty relationship with the wife of a Fresno police officer. The city hired an external law firm to ensure transparency and fairness in the probe.

While the findings did not indicate any misuse of authority, the situation put the department’s leadership under scrutiny. Public trust is crucial in law enforcement, and city officials emphasized the importance of upholding high ethical standards.

Despite the lack of official misconduct, Chief Balderrama acknowledged that his actions demonstrated poor personal judgment. He stated that stepping down was the best decision for the department and the community.

Resignation and Transition in Leadership

On June 25, 2024, Chief Balderrama formally announced his resignation, effective July 25, 2024. In his resignation statement, he expressed gratitude for his time leading the Fresno Police Department, highlighting achievements such as crime reduction initiatives and strengthening community-police relationships.

Following his resignation, Deputy Chief Mindy Casto has been appointed as the interim police chief. The city has begun a nationwide search for a permanent replacement, aiming to find a leader who can maintain stability and continue improving public safety efforts.

Reactions from City Officials and Community

Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer and City Manager Georgeanne White addressed the resignation in a press conference, stating that while Balderrama contributed significantly to the police department, his departure was necessary to maintain public trust.

Mayor Dyer acknowledged the chief’s role in improving police-community relations and expanding the department’s capabilities. However, he also noted that the standards of leadership must remain high, and ethical concerns cannot be overlooked.

Community members and law enforcement officers expressed mixed reactions. Some supported Balderrama’s decision to resign, emphasizing the importance of accountability. Others felt that since no official misconduct was found, his resignation was unnecessary.

Impact on the Fresno Police Department

Balderrama served as Fresno’s first Latino police chief, making his leadership historic and significant. His tenure focused on growing the police force, implementing new crime prevention strategies, and building trust with residents.

However, his resignation raises questions about the future direction of the department. With an interim chief in place, Fresno residents and law enforcement personnel await the selection of a new leader who can bring stability and continued progress.

The transition period will be closely watched, as law enforcement agencies rely on strong leadership to address crime rates, officer morale, and community relations.

Next Steps for the City

City officials have assured the public that the process of selecting a new police chief will be thorough and transparent. The national search is expected to take several months, as finding the right candidate is crucial for maintaining department efficiency and public confidence.

In the meantime, Deputy Chief Casto will oversee the department’s operations, ensuring that ongoing initiatives continue without disruption. Her leadership during this transitional period will be critical in keeping the police force united and focused on serving the community.

Chief Paco Balderrama’s resignation marks a significant moment for the Fresno Police Department. While his tenure brought many positive changes, personal decisions led to a situation that affected public trust, ultimately resulting in his departure.

As Fresno moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring a smooth transition in leadership and maintaining the integrity of the police department. The upcoming search for a new chief will be a defining moment for the city, shaping the future of law enforcement in Fresno.