Cervantes replaces Chief Bob Huddleston, who retires on March 31 after 33 years of service.
Cervantes most recently served as a patrol commander for the Scottsdale Police Department. Before being promoted to commander in 2008, Cervantes served in various capacities for the Scottsdale Police Department for 22 years. He began his career in law enforcement for the Town of Miami, Arizona.
“Johnny Cervantes has the qualities that are important to lead the Casa Grande Police Department into the future,” said City Manager Jim Thompson. “His accomplishments, coupled with his extensive knowledge of police operations, demonstrate that he is dedicated to public safety. I have full confidence that he will do a great job to protect and serve the citizens of Casa Grande.”
As Chief of Police, Cervantes will oversee all operations of the Casa Grande Police Department. The department currently has 78 sworn officers distributed among four divisions: patrol, special operations, criminal investigations and communications. He will be responsible for providing direction and evaluating programs, priorities, policies and procedures as well as compliance with state and federal laws. Cervantes will also continue to lead the department in implementing a 5 year strategic plan that was developed in 2012.
“Casa Grande is a growing city with a great vision for the future and a strong sense of community. That is exactly what I was looking for when exploring professional growth opportunities,” said Cervantes. “I have been fortunate in my career to work in two outstanding police organizations that were community-focused and committed to excellence. I believe the Casa Grande Police Department embodies those values and I am honored to be a part of the organization. I look forward to working with the City Council, City leadership, the community, internal and external partners, and the men and women of the Casa Grande Police Department.”
Cervantes received his Bachelor of Arts in history from Arizona State University, his Master of Arts in business administration from the University of Arizona and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy police executive management training. He is a recipient of the City Manager’s Award of Excellence and the Chief’s Award of Excellence, given by the City of Scottsdale. Cervantes begins his duties as Chief of Police on April 2.