September 17, 2021 - Longtime Merced County law enforcement veteran Jeffrey Horn is the new police chief at Merced College, effective Sept. 1.

Horn brings over 24 years of experience to his new position, having worked most recently with the Merced Police Department. In his role as the administration sergeant, Horn’s duties included overseeing all department training, recruiting, hiring and background checks, and investigating claims of officer misconduct. He will continue to serve as the department’s rangemaster and oversee firearms training.

Born and raised in Kerman, Horn began his career with the Los Banos Police Department, where he served as a patrol officer, field training officer and detective. In 2001, he was hired by the Merced Police Department, spending time as a field training officer along with five years each with the Gang Violence Suppression Unit, with the Narcotics Task Force, and as a major crimes/homicide detective. He also supervised patrol officers and detectives.

“The safety and security of our campus community is always going to be a top priority at Merced College,” said President Chris Vitelli. “We are fortunate to be adding Sgt. Horn’s experience, expertise and leadership, and I look forward to working with him as we continue to cultivate a welcoming, family-like environment at our Merced and Los Banos campuses.” 

Vice President of Administrative Services Joe Allison said the breadth and depth of Horn’s experience and his understanding of the region will serve him well at Merced College.

“Sgt. Horn’s longstanding ties to the Central Valley, oversight of several MPD training programs, and administrative experience as a supervisor and investigator all make him an outstanding fit for the role of Merced College Police Chief,” Allison said. “We already have an exceptional Campus Police Department, and I am confident that Horn’s leadership will only enhance the services we provide in maintaining the safety of our campus community.” 

In announcing Horn’s appointment, Allison also recognized the service of previous Merced College Police Chief Matt Williams, who retired in May after 32 years with the Merced Police Department and three years as Merced College’s police chief, and Interim Chief Alan Ward, who took over for Williams and had a positive impact on the campus while overseeing police operations during the ongoing pandemic. 

Horn, who attended Merced College as a student in 2005 and 2006, said he’s hoping to create a series of events and other opportunities for students and employees to meet and get to know their campus police officers.

“I am excited to be at Merced College, and grateful for the opportunity to work with students and staff to have a safe and enjoyable school year,” Horn said. “I look forward to getting to know the campus community. Please feel free to stop by the campus police office and say hello to me and the staff.”
Source: Merced College