New Chief of Antioch Police Department Sworn In

Antioch, CA — In a significant step toward accountability, reform, and community trust, the City of Antioch officially swore in Chief Joe Vigil as its new Chief of Police today at a ceremony held at the Nick Rodriguez Community Center.

Chief Vigil brings to the role over 25 years of law enforcement experience marked by innovation, professionalism, and a deep commitment to constitutional policing. His leadership represents a pivotal moment for the Antioch Police Department and the broader community it serves.

Chief Vigil has held numerous leadership roles throughout his distinguished career, serving in Suisun, Vallejo, Sacramento, Richmond, and Antioch. His experience spans operations, investigations, training, and community engagement. Most recently, he led the Support Services Bureau and served twice as Acting Chief before accepting the permanent appointment.

Beyond his technical expertise, Chief Vigil is a lifelong learner. He holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach, and has completed advanced executive leadership programs including POST Command College and coursework at Harvard University. He was recently accepted into the Drucker School of Management at Claremont Graduate University.

A dedicated public servant and family man, Chief Vigil and his wife Rachelle have been married for nearly 20 years and are proud parents to three children: Elias, Corinne, and Jillian.

Today’s ceremony marks not just a change in leadership but a new chapter for public safety in Antioch.

Background:

According to the City of Antioch:

It’s Official: Joe Vigil Named Chief of Police

We’re proud to announce that Joe Vigil, who has been serving as our Acting Chief of Police, has now been officially appointed as Antioch’s permanent Chief of Police!

Chief Vigil brings over 25 years of law enforcement experience, including service with the Sacramento, Richmond, and Antioch Police Departments. He has led our Support Services Bureau and served twice as Acting Chief. He holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach, and is deeply committed to advancing constitutional policing, transparency, and meaningful reform.

This appointment represents a critical step forward in strengthening leadership, rebuilding trust, and shaping a stronger future for the Antioch Police Department and our community.

Please join us in congratulating Chief Vigil on this well-deserved appointment!

Chief Vigil brings 25 years of law enforcement experience, including service with the Sacramento, Richmond, and Antioch Police Departments. During his career, he has:

Managed the Support Services Bureau as captain.
Served as acting police chief (Aug. 2023–Feb. 2024).
Completed the POST Command College.
Earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Cal State Long Beach.

Chief of Police Overview:

April 2025 – Joe Vigil named chief
January 2025 – Joe Vigil (interim)
February 2024 – Brian Addington named Interim Chief
August 2023 – Captain Joseph Vigil named acting Chief
August 2023 – Chief Ford retires
August 2022 – Chief Ford appointed Permanent chief
February 202 – Dr. Steve Ford appointed interim chief
Sept. 2021 – Captain Tony Morefield appointed interim chief
Sept. 2021 – Chief Tammany Books retires

Note – Within a recent Grand Jury Report under the previous city council, it urged the city to hire a permanent city manager (which they did with Scott), as well as a police chief, public works and community development directors. They also highlighted eleven of the most senior positions in Antioch city government were currently held by acting or part-time personnel—the vacancy rate of the city stood at 23%–the average rate for US employers was 5.3%.

History: