Mayor Eddie Moran announced Friday that Reading Police Chief Elias Vazquez will step down from his position for personal reasons, marking a significant leadership change in the city’s police department.
“Today we announce the departure of Chief Elias Vazquez, who has made the decision to step away from his role as Chief of Police for personal reasons,” Moran said during a press conference at City Hall. “While I’m deeply saddened to see him move on, I want to take this moment to publicly commend him for his tremendous service he has given to the city of Reading.”
Moran highlighted the chief’s impact on public safety, noting major declines in crime under his tenure. According to the mayor, Reading experienced a 21 percent reduction in crime in 2024, followed by a 32 percent reduction in the first quarter of 2025, with consecutive declines over the past six months.
“It is clear that his emphasis on community policing demonstrates the importance of public safety being about partnership and not just policing,” Moran said. He also pointed to progress in making the department more reflective of the city’s diversity through inclusive hiring and promotions.
Chief Vazquez, who was appointed by Moran, thanked the community and the department during his remarks.
“My decision does not come easy, and it’s a decision I made along with my family because it’s in our best interest at this time in our lives,” Vazquez said. “I also want to thank Mayor Eddie Moran for the confidence you had in me to take this awesome responsibility on and improving public safety, reducing crime, and building relationships in the community.”
Vazquez credited the men and women of the Reading Police Department for their role in the city’s crime reductions. “Because of your efforts, we reduced crime, as the mayor said, 21 percent in 2024, the first quarter of 2025, 32 percent reduction, and the past six months of straight crime reduction, which is almost unheard of,” he said.
Mayor Moran announced that Deputy Chief Javier Ruiz will serve as Acting Chief of Police, while Captain Aaron Denko will be promoted to Deputy Chief. Vazquez also publicly recommended Deputy Chief Luz Shade as a strong candidate for permanent chief, citing her knowledge and leadership.
In his first remarks as acting chief, Ruiz expressed gratitude and a commitment to continuity. “I want to thank the mayor for trusting me with this responsibility and Chief Vasquez for his leadership and example,” Ruiz said. “We will continue to build on the progress made, keep crime trending down, and strengthen the relationship between the department and our community.”
Moran closed by extending appreciation to the city’s police officers. “I also want to extend our gratitude to the entire police force who has taken an oath to protect and serve our city each and every day,” he said.
