Michael Harden - Biography
Chief of Police Mike Harden acted as Interim Chief from June 1, 2009
and was appointed to Chief on 2-17-2010. Mike is a 26-year veteran of the Modesto Police
Department. Mike began his career as an Explorer in 1977. He was hired as a patrol officer in 1983 and worked his way through the ranks.
During his career with the Modesto Police Department, Mike has worked in various assignments, including the Tactical Patrol Unit,
Special Investigations, and Robbery/Homicide.
Chief Harden holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration. He is a graduate of class #214 of the FBI National
Academy, the West Point Leadership and Command Institute at the Los Angeles Police Department, and California POST Command College class #40.
Mike is a member of the Stanislaus County Salvation Army Advisory Board, the Advisory Committee for Valley Charter High School
and is a member of the Stanislaus Partners in Education.
Where can I find the Chief's Office?
The office of the Chief of Police is located on the second floor of the main police facility at 600 10th Street in downtown
Modesto. The Chief of Police and members of his staff can be reached at 209- 572-9501, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Who is in the Office of the Chief of Police?
In addition to the Chief Executive Officer of the Department, or the Chief of Police, there are employees who assist in, and
coordinate, critical operations within the department and provide department-wide services to the community. The Chief’s staff
include an Administrative Analyst, Public Information Officer, Administrative Assistant, Executive Secretary, and Legal Advisor.
What does the Chief do?
Chief Harden is responsible for setting and administering all police department policies and procedures. He directly supervises three
Captains who are responsible for the 24-hour operation of the department and all services to the community. Reporting directly to the
City Manager, Chief Harden provides periodic reports about crime trends within the community, assesses the needs of the community,
coordinates law enforcement services, administers a multi-million dollar operating budget and represents the department as its leader
at community functions.
When can I see the Chief of Police?
Chief Harden works Monday through Friday, as a rule, and is often meeting with citizens, community leaders, and business owners. Due to
the high interest in law enforcement activities and services, the Chief cannot personally attend to every issue raised. He depends on
his staff to make sure that concerns of citizens are addressed in a timely fashion and that services of the department are the highest
possible. Often, staff members are able to provide rapid responses to citizens and forward ideas and concerns to other areas of the
Department.
|
