Chief Art de Werk was sworn in as Ceres' Public Safety Director/Chief of Police on August 2, 1999. Chief de Werk has also been serving as the Acting City Manager for the City of Ceres since December 4, 2010. He formerly served as the Casper, Wyoming Chief of Public Safety for eight years, and prior to that, he served for eighteen years with the Palo Alto, California Police Department. In addition to his public service, Chief de Werk is an adjunct instructor at Modesto Junior College where he has provided part-time instruction for the past six years.

Chief de Werk has a Master's Degree in Public Administration, is a graduate of the California POST Command College (Class #7), possesses a Bachelor of Science Degree in Behavioral Science, as well as an Associate's of Arts Degree in Administration of Justice. In addition to Chief de Werk's academic pursuits, he is an avid SCUBA diver, having achieved instructor's status, he is a regular weightlifter, enjoys raising and riding horses, flying airplanes, paragliding, kite boarding and camping.

Chief de Werk believes that government exists only to serve the public, and that services should be dispensed with a "customer orientation," using as much efficiency and cost-effectiveness as possible. He emphasizes courteous and respectful treatment of all persons, regardless of race, creed, orientation or religious beliefs.

WEEKLY ARTICLE:
As a public service, Chief de Werk publishes a Weekly Article. These articles are archived by date and subject.