Paul Joye is a lifelong public servant with 19 years of experience in Santa Fe law enforcement. The son of a firefighter and a social worker, Paul knew from a young age that he wanted to serve and became the first high school student in New Mexico to earn EMT certification.

Paul recently retired after 19 years in Santa Fe’s Police Department, serving nine years as Commander and four years as Chief of Police. As Chief, Paul transformed the Santa Fe Police Department into a modern, fully-staffed, professional agency focused on results, accountability, and smart policing. 

And the results matter:

• Sworn vacancy rates fell from 22% to 1%

• Proactive policing increased

• Professional civilian positions increased

• Property crime declined

• Auto theft dropped

• Data-driven strategies, modern training, and updated technology became the norm

Paul competed on American Ninja Warrior three times, including in 2023, at age 44, outworking competitors half his age. He lives in Santa Fe with his wife and their two school age children.

Paul Joye: On a Mission

• With his wife Erin, proud parents of two boys

• Former Chair, Santa Fe Regional Emergency Communications Center

• Medal of Valor and New Mexico Red Cross Real Hero Award, 2011

• Public Service Award, Rotary Club of Santa Fe, 2023-24

• Leadership Award, New Mexico Organized Retail Crime Association, 2024

• Former Commander, Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) Program

• Law Enforcement Commander, Alternative Response Unit, City of Santa Fe

• Supporter and law enforcement advocate for our local undocumented immigrant community

• Carlsbad, NM High School

• B.A., Criminal Justice, Eastern New Mexico University