Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack To Retire In May

Assistant Chief Brandon Ditto will serve as interim while a search begins for a permanent successor.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:04pm

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Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack will retire on May 22, 2026, after a 34-year law enforcement career and five years leading the Salem Police Department. City Manager Krishna Namburi announced Womack's planned exit, stating that Assistant Chief Brandon Ditto will step in as interim chief for at least six months while the city evaluates the department's needs and launches a search for a permanent successor.

Why it matters

Womack's retirement marks a significant transition for the Salem Police Department, as the city looks to build on his efforts to increase transparency, update policies, and reduce violent crime during his tenure.

The details

During his time as chief, Womack led the department's first public strategic plan, oversaw the rollout of body-worn cameras, and championed a Community Violence Reduction Initiative. He also focused on staffing and data-driven reforms during tight budget years, which contributed to a notable drop in violent crime in 2025.

  • Womack's retirement will be effective on May 22, 2026.
  • Assistant Chief Brandon Ditto will serve as interim chief for at least six months.

The players

Trevor Womack

The retiring Salem Police Chief, who has served in law enforcement for 34 years and led the Salem Police Department for the past five years.

Krishna Namburi

The Salem City Manager, who announced Womack's retirement and the plan for an interim chief during the search for a permanent successor.

Brandon Ditto

The Salem Police Department's Assistant Chief, who will serve as interim chief during the transition period.

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What they’re saying

“Serving this department and community has been one of the greatest honors of my career.”

— Trevor Womack, Retiring Police Chief

What’s next

The city manager's office will review the department's needs before naming a permanent chief, and Assistant Chief Ditto will keep day-to-day operations steady during the transition.

The takeaway

Womack's retirement marks a significant leadership change for the Salem Police Department, as the city looks to build on his efforts to increase transparency, update policies, and reduce violent crime during his tenure.