After a nationwide search that lasted several months, the city of San Antonio has selected Jesse Salame as its next police chief.
City Manager Erik Walsh announced the decision during a news conference this morning, naming Salame to permanently lead the San Antonio Police Department after he served the past two months as interim chief. Salame has been with the department for more than 27 years.
“I have the utmost confidence in his leadership, his experience, and his commitment to the people of San Antonio and the department,” Walsh said.
Walsh said the selection followed a nationwide search in which the city considered more than 30 applicants.
Salame said he was ready to take on the role.
“I’m honored and humbled to be standing here with you today,” Salame said.
Salame graduated from the police academy in 1999. He spent a decade as a detective and was promoted to deputy chief in 2022.
He succeeds longtime Chief William McManus, who was the longest-serving chief in the city’s history.
During the news conference, Salame said he plans to build on the department’s work while making improvements.
“We just want to get better at the things that we do and implement new things to keep us ahead of the game,” Salame said.
Salame said safety is the No. 1 priority and that he wants to focus resources to help keep violent crime down. He also emphasized the importance of public confidence in police.
“And last but most important is community trust. That is the foundation of everything we do,” Salame said.
The appointment is set to be confirmed by City Council on Sept. 10.