After interim stint, Scott Loughner named Downey police chief

DOWNEY — Scott Loughner has been selected to serve as Downey’s permanent police chief, City Manager Roger Bradley announced Tuesday.

Loughner had been acting chief since Leslie Murray’s retirement last year.

“He’s done a great job. I’m really appreciative of his leadership during this transition, his patience as we’ve gone through this process,” said Bradley. “He’s the right man for the job, right person for the job. We’re happy to have him in this position.”

Loughner joined the Downey Police Department as a recruit in 1999 and climbed the ranks, serving as a sergeant and lieutenant prior to his promotion to captain in 2021.

“I am honored to serve the Downey community as Chief of Police,” said Loughner. “My commitment is to work closely with our officers, professional staff, city leaders, and community members to ensure Downey remains safe to live, work and visit.”

Loughner obtained his Bachelors of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Cal State Fullerton, with a minor in Business Administration. He completed his Master of Science degree in Emergency Services Administration from Cal State Long Beach.

Loughner was born in Fullerton and raised in Placentia. He and his wife, Marie, have been married for 21 years. They have three children: Reese, Avery and Luke.