The following is a press release issued by the City of Ukiah:
City Manager Sage Sangiacomo has announced the promotion of Noble Waidelich to the position of Police Chief. Waidelich takes the helm of the Ukiah Police Department following the retirement of Chief Justin Wyatt and after serving in an interim capacity since September 19.
“We are proud to announce Noble Waidelich as our new police chief for the City of Ukiah,” said City Manager Sage Sangiacomo. “Over the last 15 years of his service with the Ukiah Police Department, Chief Waidelich has embodied the best characteristics and core values that are essential for a trusted, effective community police department. It was clear that there is no better individual to lead the Ukiah Police Department forward than Chief Waidelich. He is well respected by the community and by the department, and will bring new ideas as to how Ukiah PD can best serve our community and uphold Ukiah’s safety and good quality of life.”
Chief Waidelich first joined the Ukiah Police Department as an officer in 2005 and quickly rose through the
ranks, serving as a sergeant, lieutenant, and captain.
“It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve our community from this position of leadership,” said Chief Waidelich. “I am committed to advancing our organizational principles of safety, professionalism, and community service. I look forward to continued collaboration with our community partners, city staff, our tireless volunteers and our residents to keep Ukiah safe, pleasant, and prosperous.”
Following Chief Wyatt’s retirement announcement last year, the City of Ukiah sought out and vetted a number of qualified candidates to fill the position, including Waidelich. Following the extensive recruitment process, the City determined that Waidelich exceeded all other candidates in qualifications, knowledge, and commitment to the City of Ukiah and its residents. His local experience and connections will help guide the department in further enhancing its relationships with the Ukiah community and the citizens it serves.
“Law enforcement is evolving and complex,” explained Waidelich. “I am focused on fostering greater inclusion of our community into our policing efforts, which leads to better communication and strengthens trust. That is essential not just for a crisis or serious crime, but for more effective interactions during the array of day-to-day engagements to help promote the best quality of life possible.”
A native of Mendocino County, Chief Waidelich graduated from Potter Valley High School and went on to graduate from the California State University, Chico in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in business administration and management.
Chief Waidelich lives in Ukiah with his wife, Laura, and his 4-year old daughter Olivia and 4-month-old baby, Evelyn. In addition to his service within the Police Department, Chief Waidelich also serves as Secretary on the board of the Oak Hill Community Pool and as a board member of the Mendocino County Youth Project. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Ford Street Project and the Mendocino County Homeless Services Continuum of Care.
