Jason Chamness was named Deputy Police Chief in September of 2025, making him second in command of the Police Department where he oversees both divisions of Patrol Operations and Support Services as well as the Professional Standards Bureau.
A 22-year department veteran Deputy Chief Chamness began his career with the City of Costa Mesa in 2003 after graduating with honors as “Top Recruit” from the prestigious Orange County Sheriff’s Academy.
In 2017, he was promoted to sergeant, where he supervised patrol and investigative operations before transitioning to the Professional Standards Bureau in 2019.
His leadership path continued with a promotion to lieutenant in 2021, where he was assigned to Area Command and later guided administrative functions as the Professional Standards Bureau lieutenant.
In 2023, Chamness was promoted to the rank of captain, where he oversaw the Support Services Division.
Throughout his career, Chamness has served in a wide range of assignments. As an officer, he worked patrol, served as a field training officer, gang investigator, and a Crimes Against Persons detective.
His expertise extended into collateral roles as well, including serving on the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, where he held progressive leadership positions ranging from operator to assistant team leader, team leader, SWAT commander, and ultimately, SWAT captain.
He also served as a Force Tactics instructor, Firearms and Less-Lethal instructor, and an Active Shooter trainer, ensuring that officers across the department were prepared for high-risk situations. Chamness served on the Board of Directors for the Costa Mesa Police Association for six years.
Chamness holds a bachelor’s degree from Chapman University and a master’s degree in law enforcement and public safety leadership from the University of San Diego.
