Politics & Government

Police Chief to Leave Mission Viejo

Lt. Mike Gavin has been Mission Viejo's police chief for three years. Now he's leaving for a new career in criminal investigation.

After three years serving as Mission Viejo's police chief, Mike Gavin is calling it quits.

The 26-year Sheriff's Department veteran is accepting a new position as a criminal investigator.

This is a return of sorts for Gavin, who was an investigator before he took the top cop job in town. He also spent his career on patrol and working in county jails.

Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Gavin said he's most proud of his ability to communicate with all members of the community and work toward solutions.

“Whether it’s a neighborhood dispute, school concerns, faith-based organizations, or our business community, I have worked very hard to reach out to everyone and let them know that we care and we will do everything we can to promote a safe community,” he said. “It has been an amazing and humbling experience to be a part of the Mission Viejo team.”

Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

City Manager Dennis Wilberg had this to say about Gavin.  

“Mike made it his mission to resolve problems and keep Mission Viejo the safe city that it is,” he said. “His vast experience, leadership and contributions have benefitted our city tremendously.”


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