ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Alexandria’s search for a new police chief has come to an end.
City officials say Tarrick McGuire will become the new chief of police for the Alexandria Police Department. McGuire, who has over 20 years of experience in law enforcement, is known for his dedication to improving community relations as a way to reduce crime.
City Manager James F. Parajon emphasized the importance of having a leader like McGuire, saying, “It is vital that our public safety leadership possesses the expertise and vision to implement effective interventions that safeguard our residents.”
McGuire comes to Alexandria from Arlington, Texas, where he most recently served as assistant chief of police. He has leadership experience, including 11 years in command positions. During his time in Arlington, he led initiatives that significantly lowered crime rates and received national recognition, including from the U.S. Department of Justice.
One of his programs was "Mentoring Arlington Youth," which helped reduce crime and became a model for modern policing. McGuire also worked closely with community members, state, and federal agencies to implement crime prevention strategies and directed the Safe Roads Initiative to improve traffic safety in Arlington.
McGuire has also been recognized nationally for his work in policing reforms. In 2016, he was appointed as a Law Enforcement Fellow for the 21st Century Policing Reform initiative, and in 2022, he was inducted into the Evidence-Based Policing Hall of Fame.
"I am honored and grateful to accept the position of Police Chief of the Alexandria Police Department," McGuire said. "I believe in a community-oriented approach to policing, building public trust through transparency, and emphasizing communication and collaboration."
McGuire holds a Doctorate in Public Administration from California Baptist University and a Master’s degree from Criswell College. He will officially take on the role of Chief on November 25, succeeding former Chief Don Hayes.
