Topeka, KS
Chris G. Vallejo brings over 30 years of distinguished law enforcement experience to his role as Chief of Police in Topeka, Kansas. Appointed in November 2024 following a nationwide search, Vallejo officially began his tenure in January 2025.
Before joining the Topeka Police Department, Chief Vallejo built a distinguished career with the Austin Police Department, rising through the ranks to the position of senior commander. In that role, he oversaw the Special Victims Division and led several forward-thinking initiatives, including reforms in responses to sexual assault investigations, and recruitment and training. His leadership was instrumental in ushering in Austin’s most diverse cadet class and in establishing the department’s first Chief Data Officer position—an effort aimed at strengthening the link between data-driven strategies and meaningful community engagement.
A lifelong believer in evidence-based methods, Vallejo earned a Master’s in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s in Applied Arts and Science, with concentrations in constitutional law and political science. He is a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute, NIJ LEADS Scholar, Future Policing Institute Fellow, and a National Policing Institute Executive Fellow where he advises nationally on key law enforcement initiatives.
Since becoming Chief, Vallejo has outlined a clear roadmap for TPD—short-, mid-, and long-term goals that focus on command staff reorganization, boundary and patrol optimization, enhanced media relations, officer wellness, and aggressive recruitment efforts. He launched the “PACT—Police and Community Together” initiative to foster trust and collaboration between citizens and officers in an effort to reduce violent crime.
Vallejo is widely respected for his commitment to diversity, accountability, and innovation. His numerous awards include Meritorious Unit Citations and Patrol Unit of the Year honors—earned during his time in Austin
A veteran with roots in the Marines, Vallejo emphasizes integrity, strategic innovation, and community-centered policing. He is focused on reducing violent crime, strengthening public trust, and ensuring a safer future for all Topekans.