Chief of Police Paul Oliveira
Chief Paul Oliveira was appointed to his role in 2021. He has served the City of New Bedford for nearly 30 years and most recently served as Deputy Chief of Police from 2016 until his appointment.
Having grown up in the city, Chief Oliveira started his career as a uniform patrol officer in 1992, and then transferred to the Narcotics Division until his promotion to Sergeant in 2000. Chief Oliveira served as a Sergeant in Uniform Patrol, Detective Division, and the Narcotics Division. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in 2007, and served as Commander of the Professional Standards Division (the Department’s internal affairs division), and as Commander of the Narcotics Division.
In 2012, Oliveira was promoted to the rank of Captain, and led the Professional Standards Division before his appointment as Deputy Chief of Police in 2016. Oliveira holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Anna Maria College. He also graduated from Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police program.
“I’m honored to serve as New Bedford's Police Chief, and I will continue to work with the men and women of the department who are dedicated to protecting and serving all the residents of our city,” said Chief Oliveira.
The Chief of Police is responsible for the overall planning, administration and operation of the New Bedford Police Department. The Chief is appointed by and reports to the Mayor of the City of New Bedford.
Message from the Chief
On behalf of the New Bedford Police Department, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to our official website. Whether you are a resident, a curious explorer, or someone seeking information, we are delighted to have you here.
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to fostering a safe and thriving community. We understand that a sense of security is paramount to the well-being of our residents, and we are dedicated to upholding that security with integrity, professionalism, and compassion.
Our police officers, the backbone of our department, work tirelessly to ensure the safety and welfare of the New Bedford community. Their dedication to duty is truly commendable, and I am immensely proud of the hard work they put in every day to protect and serve. We recognize that effective policing goes beyond enforcement; it involves building trust, fostering positive relationships, and actively engaging with the community we proudly serve.
New Bedford is a community with a rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. It is this diversity that makes our city so vibrant and unique. I am continually inspired by the resilience and spirit of our residents, and it is an honor to lead a department that is deeply invested in working collaboratively with the community to address its needs and concerns.
As you navigate through our website, you will find valuable information about our services, community programs, and initiatives. We believe in transparency and open communication, and this platform serves as a bridge between our department and the community.
Thank you for taking the time to explore the New Bedford Police Department website. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to reach out if you have any questions, suggestions, or concerns. Together, we can continue to build a safer, stronger, and more connected community.
Stay safe and well.
~ Chief Paul Oliveira