The City of Scotts Valley has long been recognized as one of the safest cities in the state. That reputation did not happen by accident. From our earliest days, Chief Gerald Pittenger and later Chief Steve Walpole Sr. embraced what we now call community policing, well before the term became common practice. They understood that public safety begins with relationships.
In 1978, the Scotts Valley Police Department established a Juvenile Program through grant funding that received state and national recognition. Since then, our City has consistently prioritized outreach and education for young people. Scotts Valley remains the only agency in the county that continues to provide the DARE program in our schools, along with other youth initiatives that foster positive relationships between students and law enforcement.
These connections matter. I have seen firsthand the trust and mutual respect they build.
As we look ahead to celebrating our City’s 60th anniversary, we can take pride in the fact that even during challenging financial times, we have sustained programs that invest in our youth. That commitment extends beyond public safety.
Recently, we celebrated the opening of the new “big kids” playground at Skypark. Thanks to the work of our Parks and Recreation Department, the Parks and Recreation Commission and grant funding supported by former Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, the playground has quickly become a destination for families throughout the county. It reflects what has always defined Scotts Valley: thoughtful planning, community partnership and a belief that our children deserve the very best.
This same spirit of continuity and community now guides our Police Department’s next chapter. Following the retirement of Chief Steve Walpole Jr., former Capt. Jayson Rutherford has been appointed as Scotts Valley’s seventh chief of police.
Chief Rutherford has dedicated his entire 28-year law enforcement career to the Scotts Valley Police Department. He has served under both Chief Walpole Sr. and Chief Walpole Jr., rising through the ranks and supervising all aspects of the Department. Most recently, he served as administrative captain before being appointed interim chief.
Jayson lives in Scotts Valley and raised his family here. His children attended local schools. He understands our community because he is part of it. Chief Rutherford holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from California State University, Stanislaus and a master’s degree in public safety from the University of Virginia. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, the California Police Chiefs Association Executive Leadership Certification Program and the California POST Executive Development Course. He serves on the CPCA State Legislative Committee and is an active member of the Scotts Valley Kiwanis.
Upon his appointment, Chief Rutherford shared these words: “I have dedicated my entire 28-year law enforcement career to the City of Scotts Valley. I am fully invested in this community, both personally and professionally. I live here, I’ve raised my family here, and the continued safety and quality of life for our community means everything to me. It is my honor and privilege to serve as Chief. I understand the unique needs and desires of our community, and so do the members of our Department. My vision is to enhance our community relationships through accountability and collaboration, which are the reasons our Department has enjoyed such strong community support for the last 60 years.”
Having worked with Jayson during my own career with the Scotts Valley Police Department, I know his dedication and strong work ethic. He respects our history and is committed to building on the foundation laid by those who came before him. He has earned the confidence of his staff and the trust of our community.
Chief Rutherford was officially sworn in on March 2. I look forward to supporting him as he leads the Department into its next generation of service to Scotts Valley.
Donna Lind is Mayor of Scotts Valley. To reach Lind, email dl***@**********ey.gov or call 831-438-4187.
