Arizona State University Police Department welcomes in ASU alumnus as new assistant chief

The Arizona State University Police Department is proud to announce the appointment of Dave Ramer as the department’s new Assistant Chief of Police. In his new role, Ramer will oversee the department’s Operations Division, which includes Patrol Services, the Real Time Analysis Center, Crime Prevention Programs, and operations at ASU’s Los Angeles location.

Assistant Chief Ramer brings more than 25 years of distinguished law enforcement experience to the university community. He began his career with the Chandler Police Department in 1999, rising through the ranks from patrol officer to Assistant Chief. Over the course of his career, he has led units in patrol operations, criminal investigations, public information, fleet management, and training programs.

Ramer most recently served as Assistant Chief of the Investigations Division for the Chandler Police Department prior to his retirement in November 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome Assistant Chief Ramer to ASU,” said ASU Police Chief John Thompson. “His extensive leadership experience, coupled with a deep-rooted commitment to community policing, makes him an exceptional addition to our team.”

Throughout his career, Ramer has been an advocate for both operational excellence and community engagement. He has served in leadership roles with Special Olympics Arizona, including State Director of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, and continues to support youth and family programs through organizations such as AZCEND and the Boy Scouts of America, where he is an Eagle Scout.

Ramer’s community service has earned him several notable honors, including:

• Two Community Service Awards from Chandler PD.
• Two James R. Snedigar Public Service Awards.
• The international Jon Carion Unsung Hero Award for his work with the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

A proud ASU alumnus, Ramer holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology with a concentration in organizational issues. He is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command and the Senior Management Institute for Police. He is also a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), serving on its Police Policy Center Advisory Group and the Torch Run Committee.

Ramer’s appointment comes as part of ASU PD’s ongoing commitment to enhancing campus safety and strengthening community partnerships across all ASU locations.