Come meet Ken Plunkett Escondido’s New Chief of Police. Following a comprehensive and competitive recruitment process, the City of Escondido in August of last year announced the appointment of Ken Plunkett as its new Chief of Police. Chief Plunkett brings more than 27 years of law enforcement experience and a distinguished record of public service, leadership, and community engagement. The position had been vacant since December 2024, when former Chief Edward Varso retired. His leadership comes at a time of great opportunity to further strengthen public safety, community trust, and organizational excellence within the department.
Chief Plunkett most recently served as Police Captain for the City of West Covina, where he held command-level responsibility over both the Patrol Operations and Investigative & Support Services Divisions. Over the course of his career, he has served in a broad range of assignments from SWAT operations and field training to managing internal affairs, professional standards, and technology systems. His deep understanding of public safety operations and commitment to ethical policing have earned him the respect of colleagues and community members alike.
Chief Plunkett started his public safety career as a Fire Explorer in 1994 before transitioning to law enforcement in 1998 with the Los Angeles Police Department. He has since served more than 25 years with the West Covina Police Department, rising through the ranks and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to public safety and professional development. He holds both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from California State University, Long Beach, and is a graduate of the prestigious POST Command College.
At the September 17th swearing in ceremony, Mayor Dane White told Plunkett, “We are honored to formally recognize and congratulate you on your swearing in as police chief. Your exemplary dedication to public service, unwavering commitment to community safety and distinguished record of leadership have earned the trust and respect of your colleagues, city officials and the residents of Escondido.” He continued, “We look forward to your continued efforts to foster transparency, foster community partnerships and lead with integrity. We commend your vision, professionalism and steadfast devotion to the values that we esteem as a strong and unified community— and welcome aboard. We’re happy to have you.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Chief Plunkett to Escondido,” said City Manager Sean McGlynn. “He is a proven leader with a collaborative and community-focused approach. His extensive experience, strategic mindset, and passion for public service make him the right person to lead our department forward.”
City Clerk Zack Beck administered the oath of office at the Sept. 17 City Council meeting, where dozens of Plunkett’s former West Covina colleagues, lifelong friends and family members attended. His wife, Veronica, and two sons, Sam and Noah, stood beside him during the ceremony.