Recently retired Modesto Police Chief Mike Harden has come out of retirement to serve as the interim Police Chief in Escalon.

The city’s search for a permanent chief hit a snag when the candidate they chose for the job unexpectedly turned it down last month. So city council members sought to find a local, interim chief to serve for the next few months while they start the search process again.

Sgt. Milt Medeiros had been serving as acting chief but will resume his duties as a sergeant within the department, as Harden officially came on board Monday, March 31. Harden is scheduled to attend the Monday night Escalon City Council meeting, April 7, to greet the council and community.

“We have a month to month contract with him,” explained interim City Manager Tammy Alcantor, noting that they are anticipating no more than six months of service for Harden in the role.

Officials said his familiarity with the Central Valley area should allow him to ease into the position well, and he will work with Medeiros on transitioning into the chief’s role as Medeiros returns to his sergeant’s post.

Harden has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration. He also went through the FBI National Academy.