Police Chief Darren Pytel to retire after 41 Years, Deputy Chief Todd Henry named successor
By ALMA CULVERWELL — city@theaggie.org
After a 41-year career at the Davis Police Department, Police Chief Darren Pytel recently announced his retirement, scheduled for Oct. 17, 2024. Pytel’s retirement marks the end of an era for the city, as he had been a cornerstone of the department since starting as a police cadet in 1983. Deputy Chief Todd Henry has been named as the new chief, according to a city announcement by City Manager Mike Webb.
Pytel’s career in the department has been marked by a wide range of roles, including bike enforcement officer, watch commander, lieutenant, captain and deputy chief, before becoming police chief in 2015. Throughout his tenure, Pytel led the department through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 serial stabbings that shook the Davis community.
In addition to his leadership role, Pytel has also served as a professor in the Administration of Justice Department at Sacramento City College, a position he plans to continue after retirement. He also looks forward to spending time with his family, traveling with his wife and exploring the region’s wineries.
“I’ve had a long and amazing career with the Davis Police Department,” Pytel said in a city of Davis press release. “It has been a true pleasure serving this community and working with so many people who have been focused on ensuring a safer Davis. I will miss so many, especially the dedicated members of the department, but I have no doubt they will continue to serve with pride and distinction under Chief Henry’s leadership.”
Webb praised Pytel’s commitment and leadership to the city of Davis.
“His unique expertise and deep knowledge of the Davis community are unparalleled,” Webb said in the statement. “I wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement and am confident that Todd Henry will continue to build on Pytel’s legacy.”
Henry brings more than 28 years of public safety experience to his new role. Henry joined the Davis Police Department as deputy chief in March 2023, after a 25-year career with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, where he developed initiatives such as a homeless outreach team and a mental health crisis response unit. His experience in community and intelligence-led policing, coupled with his leadership roles in various public safety boards, positions him as a strong successor to Pytel.
“I am grateful and honored to have the opportunity to continue serving this amazing community,” Henry said in the statement. “Davis has welcomed me with kindness and support, and I am committed to upholding the values of integrity and transparency that the city has come to expect.”
Henry’s appointment has garnered praise from city officials, including Mayor Josh Chapman, who expressed confidence in his ability to lead the department.
“I would like to welcome Deputy Chief Henry into his new role as Davis Police Chief,” Chapman said in the press release. “I have full confidence that he will be a great leader for our Police Department for years to come.”
As the Davis community prepares for this transition, Henry will step into a role with both challenges and opportunities, working to continue the city’s reputation as a safe, inclusive place for residents.
Pytel’s retirement caps a career marked by dedication and resilience, and the city will feel the impact of his absence. However, with Henry’s experience and vision, Davis residents can look forward to a continuation of the department’s commitment to public safety and community engagement.
Written By Alma Culverwell — city@theaggie.org
