Merced has a new police chief and it’s Steven Stanfield, who will take command on Oct. 30.

Stanfield, who has 27 years of law enforcement experience, comes to Merced from the Modesto Police Department, where he was a lieutenant.

Merced City Manager Stephanie Dietz announced Stanfield’s hiring in a news release on Tuesday. Stanfield succeeds interim police chief Craig Gundlach, who came aboard in March and said he expected to serve about six months.

“(Chief Stanfield) embodies the values of our department and our community, and we are confident that he will uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and community engagement,” Dietz said.

Stanfield served in a variety of roles with Modesto PD. For example, he helped develop and manage the city’s first Homeless Engagement and Response Team. His current assignments included
overseeing the city’s blue light camera program and patrol schedule, tracking the use of force and pursuits by officers, and managing the Real Time Crime Center.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be appointed as the chief of police for the city of Merced. I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our community members, and I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated officers and the entire Merced community,” Stanfield said.

Stanfield’s annual salary will be $200,000.00, Diaz said.