Scottsdale’s new “top cop,” Police Chief Joe LeDuc, has officially taken the helm, outlining a clear set of priorities centered on fostering unwavering public trust and enhancing community engagement. His tenure marks a pivotal moment for the Scottsdale Police Department, as he steps into a role previously held by a popular predecessor, Jeff Walther, with a clear vision for the city’s safety and resident well-being, particularly addressing the ongoing challenges posed by short-term rentals.
The transition of leadership saw former Chief Jeff Walther ceremonially pass the baton to Chief LeDuc, who was named permanent chief in April after serving an interim period since January. Walther, renowned for his 28-year career dedicated entirely to Scottsdale’s police force, transitioned to Assistant City Manager, leaving a significant legacy for LeDuc to build upon. This succession highlights a continuity of commitment to the Scottsdale community.
Chief LeDuc brings a deeply personal connection to the city, having grown up around Scottsdale, despite living in a Phoenix jurisdiction area. This intimate familiarity with the locale underscores his understanding of its unique dynamics and the diverse needs of its residents. His early experiences in the area have shaped his approach to policing, emphasizing local values and concerns.
LeDuc’s ascent through the ranks of the Scottsdale Police Department has been a steady progression, demonstrating a profound dedication to law enforcement and leadership. Beginning as a sergeant in 2005, he advanced to lieutenant eight years later, achieved commander status in 2016, and was promoted to assistant police chief in 2021, culminating in his current appointment as the head of the department.
A cornerstone of Chief LeDuc’s philosophy is the paramount importance of public trust, which he identifies as the bedrock of effective policing. He emphasized that Scottsdale receives more police calls per capita than any other department in the region, attributing this high volume directly to the community’s trust. This unwavering confidence allows residents to reach out even for minor issues, ensuring a strong police-community partnership.
Maintaining high standards in recruitment is another critical aspect linked to preserving this invaluable public trust. Chief LeDuc is committed to rigorous hiring practices, preferring to operate with fewer officers rather than compromise on quality, recognizing that a single poor hiring decision can erode years of trust. This commitment is supported by the community, which overwhelmingly approved a 2019 bond package for a new police training facility and backed pay raises for existing officers, further solidifying the foundation for a highly capable force.
Among the most pressing challenges on Chief LeDuc’s agenda are the issues surrounding short-term rentals, often referred to as “the Airbnb crowd.” These properties, while economically successful, frequently lead to resident complaints regarding noise, disturbances, and other quality-of-life issues. Tackling these concerns effectively requires focused attention and strategic solutions to balance economic benefits with community peace, which is a major priority for the new Police Leadership.
Ultimately, Chief LeDuc reiterates that “community engagement” is the “T word” for the department, symbolizing its core culture. From addressing concerns about electronic bikes in parks, illegal fireworks, and scammers targeting the elderly, to managing speeding drivers and welfare checks, every police interaction circles back to the vital concept of community trust and active engagement, ensuring the Scottsdale Police Department remains deeply connected to the citizens it serves.
