Chief Taurino Valdovinos currently serves as Oceanside's Chief of Police. Chief Valdovinos was born in Mexico and raised in North County San Diego. He graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1995 and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Saint Mary’s College of California. He also holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati. Chief Valdovinos joined the Oceanside Police Department in September 2003 and is a 2022 graduate of the FBI National Academy and the San Diego County Regional Leadership Institute. He promoted from Captain to Chief of Police in November of 2024.

The Office of the Chief provides administrative and supervisory support to the Oceanside Police Department.  Included within the Office of the Chief is Chief Taurino Valdovinos, Assistant Chief John McKean, the Office of the Chief’s Administrative Analyst, the Media Relations Manager, and the Professional Standards Unit.

The Administrative Analyst provides direct support to the Chief of Police and the Assistant Chief of Police, while also assisting various divisions with administrative tasks. This role is responsible for conducting special studies, preparing reports and recommendations, and leading the coordination of Oceanside Police Department events. All inquiries related to the Office of the Chief should be directed to the Administrative Analyst.

The Media Relations Manager oversees content creation and public relations efforts for the department. Responsibilities include handling media requests, coordinating interviews, developing social media content, managing recruitment campaigns, handling branding and marketing initiatives, and writing press releases. For questions regarding public information or press releases, please contact the Media Relations Manager.

The Professional Standards Unit is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct involving any member of the Police Department. The Professional Standards Unit staff have been trained on personnel investigations and disciplinary issues. The Internal Affairs investigative process is meant to provide a thorough and fair review of misconduct allegations.

To speak with someone within the Office of the Chief please call:

• 24-Hour Access Line: (760) 435-4900
• Patrol Supervisor: (760) 435-4980
• Professional Standards: (760) 435-4455
• Chief of Police: (760) 435-4450