Paradise Valley Police Cmdr. Freeman Carney named chief of police
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
After 31 years in local law enforcement — and the last seven as chief of the Paradise Valley Police Department — Police Chief Peter Wingert is resigning to pursue a national policy position.
Paradise Valley Cmdr. Freeman Carney of the PVPD has been promoted by the town manager to lead the department. The changes are effective Dec. 10, 2022.
“I’m thrilled that Cmdr. Carney has accepted the role, and the opportunity to continue building on the foundation set by Chief Wingert,” said Town Manager Jill Keimach in a prepared statement. “The Town is incredibly proud of the entire force, and the work they do every day to make Paradise Valley an amazing community.”
During his tenure, Chief Wingert, along with his officers and command staff, developed an accredited agency that provides exceptional customer service, is highly trained, and can respond to any threat or incident inside and outside municipal borders — protecting residents and visitors.
“I have tremendous respect and appreciation for Chief Wingert and the outstanding work he has done leading the department through some extremely challenging times,” Mayor Jerry Bien-Willner said in a prepared statement. “I look forward to working with Commander Carney as he takes over this critical role for our community. He is a proven and well-respected leader within our police department.”
Cmdr. Carney has been with the PVPD for more than 11 years and was previously with the city of Avondale Police Department.
“I’m excited and humbled by the opportunity to be following Chief Wingert as chief of police. Chief Pete has set a very high bar and has been a strong leader for the force and the community,” Cmdr. Carney said. “While it will be tough to fill his shoes, we have a tremendous team, staff and Town Council supporting our work.”
“Our town has been well-served by Chief Wingert, and I, along with the entire Town Council, wish him well on his future endeavors,” said Vice Mayor Anna Thomasson. “Cmdr. Carney will be a great successor to Chief Wingert, and I have every confidence he will continue serving with distinction.”
