Matthew Toronto
Saint Paul
Summary
Dynamic Police Commander with extensive experience at the City of St. Paul, excelling in community connections and interagency coordination. Proven track record in enhancing public safety through effective problem-solving, personnel training and supervision. Successfully upgraded data request systems, fostering transparency and accountability within the department while mentoring officers for leadership growth.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Police Commander
City of St. Paul - Department of Police
11.2024 - Current
- Liaised with government, civic and private organizations to promote community trust through Police-Community Internal Affairs Review Commission.
- Approved training and education designed to maintain and improve officer patrol and protective services.
- Supervised administrative and support functions of non-sworn and professional department personnel.
- Oversaw internal investigations ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to ethical standards within the department.
- Upgraded department's public facing data request portal to be more user friendly and improved efficiency with workflow for data release specialists.
- Monitored officer performance through regular reviews, providing constructive feedback and guidance on areas of improvement as necessary.
- Evaluated officers' professional development needs, providing mentoring opportunities for growth in leadership positions within the organization when appropriate.
Police Sergeant
City of St. Paul - Department of Police
02.2015 - 11.2024
- Supervised and coordinated daily operations of patrol shifts.
- Managed personnel schedules, ensuring adequate coverage for shifts while minimizing overtime expenses.
- Supervised crowds at busy events to prevent injuries and property destruction, as well as protect free speech.
- Mentored junior officers, providing guidance on best practices for policing techniques and career advancement opportunities.
- Facilitated communication between command staff and subordinates, promoting transparency and resolving conflicts efficiently.
- Oversaw evidence collection and management to maintain proper chain of custody in criminal cases.
- Improved community connections by partnering with outreach programs and collaborating with local organizations.
- Designed and executed training modules, simulations, and lectures, preparing officers for a wide range of real-world scenarios.
- Conducted thorough investigations into serious crimes, resulting in significant case closures and community safety improvements.
- Conducted regular audits of department policy, ensuring adherence to changing culture and community expectations, while identifying areas for policy improvement.
Police Officer
City of St. Paul - Department of Police
09.1999 - 02.2015
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices, maintaining a high level of expertise within the field of law enforcement.
- Displayed sound judgment under pressure when making critical decisions that impact public safety during emergency situations.
- Utilized excellent communication skills when interacting with diverse populations, fostering trust between law enforcement and the community members they serve.
- Enhanced public safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.
- Effectively diffused potentially dangerous situations through verbal negotiation techniques before escalating force was necessary.
- Trained new officers on department policies and procedures, fostering a professional work environment focused on public service as a Field Training Officer.
- Trained other officers in firearms and self-defense tactics.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice Studies
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, MNLaw Enforcement Skills Degree
Alexandria Technical College
Alexandria, MNSkills
- Community connections
- Interagency coordination
- Investigative skills
- Team management
- Criminal investigation
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Policy review
- Problem-solving
- Personnel supervision
- Planning and organizational skills
- Interpersonal skills
Awards and Recognitions
Medal of Valor
Unit Citation
3 Chief's letter of recognition
13 Community thank you letters
Timeline
Police Commander
City of St. Paul - Department of Police
11.2024 - Current
Police Sergeant
City of St. Paul - Department of Police
02.2015 - 11.2024
Police Officer
City of St. Paul - Department of Police
09.1999 - 02.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice Studies
Saint Cloud State University
Law Enforcement Skills Degree
Alexandria Technical College