Walsh returns as temporary Menifee Police Chief

Pat Walsh, who as police chief directed the launch of the Menifee Police Department in July 2020, will return for several weeks to temporarily replace interim Chief Chris Karrer, who is out on injury medical leave.

Karrer has served as interim chief since December following the departure of Ed Varso, who left Menifee PD after only five months to return to his previous employer, the Escondido PD. Varso had replaced Walsh, who retired in July 2022.

According to a press release, Karrer was injured while off-duty. Walsh is expected to serve as a replacement for eight to 12 weeks.

“Chief Karrer has done an outstanding job leading the Menifee Police Department and we will continue his great work to keep our communities safe,” said Chief Walsh. “While my service here in Menifee will be brief, I am looking forward to once again working with the talented men and women we have here at the department.”

Walsh began his law enforcement career as a Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff in 1984. He transferred to the Portland Police Bureau in 1992 and served there for over 20 years before becoming Chief of Police in Lompoc.

Karrer (left) is a U.S. Marine veteran with over 20 years of law enforcement experience.

“We wish Chief Karrer a speedy recovery and look forward to having him back on the job soon,” said City Manager Armando Villa. “In the meantime, we are grateful to have Chief Walsh back with us and know he will do a great job in leading the Menifee Police Department.”

Chief Walsh will officially begin his temporary assignment on May 15.