Meet Stephen Schluer, Police Chief

Stephen Schluer is the new Police Chief for the City of Manteca. He has worked for the City for 27 years.

“Throughout my entire life, I’ve had a strong desire to contribute to my community. I was raised in Manteca and became a member of the Police Explorers program in 1987.

“When I made the choice to pursue a career as a police officer, it was with the unwavering intention of remaining in Manteca. My goal has always been to do my part to enhance Manteca, making it a more desirable place to reside, visit, and raise a family.”

Asked what he likes the most about his job, Schluer said, “It’s the people I work with at the Police department. Our department is rather tight-knit; it’s my second family.”

When asked what a typical day is like, Chief Schluer responds, “A typical day involves a series of demanding and varied responsibilities. It typically begins with a morning briefing alongside senior officers and command staff, where I gain insights into ongoing investigations, emerging challenges, and departmental priorities.

“The day involves a series of meetings with diverse stakeholders, including City officials, community leaders, representatives from other law enforcement agencies, and community organizations. Building and nurturing these relationships within the community is paramount for fostering trust and cooperation.”

He continues, “I’m actively engaged in the continuous development and refinement of departmental policies and procedures, ensuring they adhere to evolving legal standards and align with our commitment to community safety and fairness.

“Community engagement remains a central focus, with frequent participation in events, forums, and outreach activities aimed at ensuring transparency and building strong community bonds.

“I also stand prepared to lead and coordinate emergency responses to significant incidents, oversee budget management to optimize resource allocation, remain in touch with the local media to convey important updates and maintain public trust, engage in long-term strategic planning to address crime reduction and community policing strategies and prioritize the ongoing training and professional development of our officers.

“Throughout the day, I am deeply committed to problem-solving, addressing a range of community issues, and ensuring that public safety and the well-being of our community remain at the forefront of my daily duties. Adaptability, effective communication, and a strong sense of duty are essential in the demanding role of a police chief.”

With regard to Schluer’s community involvement, over the years he has coached local youth and high school sports programs and volunteered in and participated in community events and fundraisers. “I am always looking for opportunities to be a part of the community so that I don’t lose sight of who we work for.” Other activities include:

• Board Member, Clerk of the Board – Manteca Unified School District Board of Education, Trustee, Area 6
• Board Member – Child Abuse Prevention Council of San Joaquin
• Member – California Police Chiefs’ Association (CPCA)
• Member – International Association of Police Chiefs (IACP)
• Past Director – California School Board Association, Region 8
• Founding Member – California School Board Association Equity Network
• Past Board Member & Past President – Tenet Health; Doctor’s Hospital of Manteca Board of Directors
• Board Trustee – Manteca/Lathrop Boys and Girls Club
• Past President – Manteca Police Officers’ Association
• Chairman – Manteca Every Fifteen Minutes Program
• Chairman – Manteca Police Chief’s Foundation
• President – Friends of the Manteca Parks and Rec Foundation
• Founder and Past President – Friends of the Manteca Police Officers’ Association
• Member – Manteca Noon Rotary
• Kid’s Sake and Angle Tree contributor
• Project Blue – Healthy Room Project and 10K with a cop

Chief Schluer’s awards and recognitions include:

• 2010 recipient of the Honorable Don Asher Memorial Police Officer of the Year Award
• 2011 recipient of the Manteca Police Department Meritorious Service Medal
• 2017 recipient of the “JB” Berkhart Memorial Foundation Humanitarian of the Year for the City of Manteca