Rocky Marquez Takes Office as Oxnard’s 23rd Police Chief

OXNARD — November 7, 2026. The City of Oxnard has named Rocky Marquez its 23rd police chief, with the appointment taking effect November 4, 2026, after the retirement of Chief Jason Benites.

A career inside Oxnard Police

Marquez joined the department in 2002. He served as a patrol officer and in specialized assignments including investigations, SWAT and traffic-related supervision before becoming assistant chief. He grew up locally and graduated from Hueneme High School, according to his official biography.

Leadership transition

City Manager Alexander Nguyen announced the succession earlier in the fall. The outgoing chief, Benites, had accumulated 33 years of public service, with his final day scheduled for November 3. Marquez’s appointment represents a change in departmental leadership rather than a change in the elected city government.

What the public should watch

Oxnard residents can evaluate future policy priorities through departmental reports, council proceedings, public safety statistics and community engagement. The city’s announcement does not establish that the transition itself caused a rise or decline in crime. Any claims about policing outcomes should be based on subsequent data.

Source: City of Oxnard. Report prepared November 7, 2026.

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