NewsNoticias Tampa Bay (Univision)August 5, 2026Hillsborough
Soledad Police Chief Patrick Valenzuela resigns; city appoints interim leadership
Soledad Police Chief Patrick Valenzuela has left his position effective immediately following a mutual agreement with the city. Jorge Arreola has been appointed as interim police chief, with Juan Santiago serving as interim deputy chief while the city searches for a permanent replacement.
Read the full story at Noticias Tampa Bay (Univision)Why It Matters
The departure of the police chief and the appointment of leadership affects the management and continuity of public safety services for the residents of Soledad.
Key Facts
- Patrick Valenzuela's tenure as Soledad Police Chief ended immediately via a mutual agreement with the city.
- Jorge Arreola has been named interim Police Chief.
- Juan Santiago has been named interim Deputy Chief.
- The city is currently conducting a search for a permanent police chief.
- Valenzuela had served as chief since July 2025.
- Valenzuela previously served nearly 30 years at the Glendale Police Department.
- No specific reasons for the leadership change were provided by city officials.
Who's Mentioned
personMegan Hunter“Soledad City Administrator who announced the leadership change.”personJorge Arreola“Appointed as interim Police Chief.”locationGlendale“Former department where Valenzuela worked for 30 years.”personPatrick Valenzuela“Former Soledad Police Chief who left his position.”personJuan Santiago“Appointed as interim Deputy Chief.”locationSoledad“The city where the police leadership change occurred.”