News Summary
Jason Chamness has been appointed as the new deputy chief of the Costa Mesa Police Department, marking a significant change in leadership. With 22 years of experience at CMPD, Chamness has held various positions and earned recognition for his leadership and community dedication. His new role will oversee Patrol Operations, Support Services, and the Professional Standards Bureau, focusing on community engagement and safety. As discussions about the interim chief role continue, Chamness’s promotion is seen as critical for the department’s future direction.
Costa Mesa – Jason Chamness has been appointed as the new deputy chief of the Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD), effective Sunday. He fills the position previously held by Joyce LaPointe, who has been serving as the interim chief since June. This leadership change marks a significant moment for the CMPD, as Chamness will now oversee crucial areas including Patrol Operations, Support Services, and the Professional Standards Bureau.
Chamness, a seasoned officer with 22 years of experience at CMPD, has been recognized for his leadership qualities, integrity, and dedication to the community. As he steps into his new role, he has expressed his gratitude for the trust that has been placed in him and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting his team and the residents of Costa Mesa.
Beginning his career in law enforcement in 2003, Chamness quickly distinguished himself as a “top recruit” at the Orange County Sheriff’s Regional Academy. Over the years, he has undertaken numerous assignments, gaining valuable experience in areas such as gang investigations, crimes against persons, and field training. His expertise extends to firearms and force tactics training, area command, professional standards, and serving as a member of the SWAT team.
In addition to his operational roles, Chamness has served multiple terms as president of the Costa Mesa Police Association, showcasing his leadership within the department. In 2016, he was honored with the “Heroes with Hearts” award from the Trauma Intervention Program of Orange County for his compassionate support to children during a traumatic event involving their family.
Chamness ascended to the rank of sergeant in 2017, where he supervised patrols and investigative operations. Two years later, he moved to the Professional Standards Bureau before being promoted to lieutenant in 2021. Most recently, he served as a captain, overseeing the Support Services Division.
In terms of compensation, Chamness’s annual base salary as deputy chief will be $217,067, with potential earnings rising to a total of $243,504.
The promotion of Chamness raises questions about the future of the interim chief role that Joyce LaPointe has been filling. Currently, there is uncertainty about whether she will transition into a permanent position, as a city spokesman did not provide any comments regarding the long-term status of the interim chief position.
Chamness’s promotion is seen as a crucial step for the CMPD as it continues to navigate leadership transitions and strives to maintain a focus on community engagement, safety, and operational effectiveness. With his extensive background and commitment to public service, many in Costa Mesa look forward to the direction under his command.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Police Veteran Chamness Named Deputy Chief
- Wikipedia: Costa Mesa, California
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Taps Deputy Chief LaPointe to Serve as Interim Head of CMPD
- Google Search: Costa Mesa Police Department
- Sacramento Bee: Costa Mesa News Article
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California
- ABC7: Costa Mesa Killing
- Google News: Costa Mesa news
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
