MPD Chief Ivens Announces Retirement
Chief will remain in role through June 30, as city prepares for leadership transition
Medford Police
Justin Ivens, Chief of the Medford Police Department, has announced his retirement following more than 30 years of service in law enforcement.
A Medford native, Ivens will continue serving as Police Chief through June 30, 2026, allowing time for an orderly leadership transition, according to a statement released by the City of Medford.
Chief Ivens joined the Medford Police Department in 1995 as a Community Service Officer and advanced through nearly every level of the organization. His career included assignments in patrol, gang and street enforcement, major crimes investigations, supervision, and executive leadership. He was appointed Chief of Police in 2021.
During his tenure as chief, Ivens emphasized practical, evidence-based policing strategies, strong interagency collaboration, and a leadership approach centered on professionalism, accountability, and teamwork. City officials said his experience and institutional knowledge helped guide the department through a period of operational and community challenges.
“Chief Ivens has spent his career serving the community that raised him,” said John Vial, Interim City Manager. “He leads with integrity, experience, and respect for both the public and the people he works alongside. We are grateful for his service and the example he has set.”
The City of Medford is expected to begin the recruitment process for the city’s next police chief later this week.
City leaders expressed appreciation for Ivens’ decades-long commitment to public safety and his continued leadership during the transition period.
