City of Edinburg names Garcia as Interim Chief of Police

EDINBURG — The city’s local police department here is under the reins of someone new, as its current chief — Jaime Ayala — will retire on Friday.

The City of Edinburg recently appointed Lieutenant Orlando Garcia as the Interim Chief of Police, according to a statement released earlier this week.

As previously reported by The Advance back in our Sept. 15 issue, Ayala had publicly announced his retirement from the force after serving five years on the job.

The city said that Garcia has over two decades of experience in law enforcement, leadership, as well as engaging in public service. More so, the lieutenant started his career with the Edinburg Police Department back in 2001 — which also serves as his hometown.

Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa said that Garcia’s upbringing in the city, as well as years of experience, contributed to his appointment as interim chief. “Lt. Garcia’s roots in Edinburg, decades of service, and proven command experience make him the right leader for our police department during this transition. We thank Chief Ayala for his service to our community and wish him well in his retirement,” Ochoa said in a release. “Moving forward, the City Council and I have full confidence that Interim Chief Garcia will protect our city and uphold the high standards our citizens expect.”

As for a permanent position, the City of Edinburg has contracted with Strategic Government Resources. SGR is an executive search firm that will conduct a nationwide search process for a permanent candidate.

The process will take about 90 days.