Cory B. Morgan brings over two decades of dedicated service to the Santa Clara community, combining military excellence with extensive City of Santa Clara law enforcement experience. His leadership spans critical roles from tactical operations to community engagement, reflecting a commitment to safety, integrity, and innovation. As Chief of Police, Cory pledges to uphold the highest standards of public service, foster collaborative relationships, and ensure the SCPD continues to adapt and excel in safeguarding our city.
After testing in the 99th percentile for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, Cory served four years in the United States Army (2003-2007). Cory was the distinguished honor graduate of his Advanced Individual Training Course to become an Intelligence Analyst, and was recruited by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) (AKA the Night Stalkers) to serve. He served successfully with the 2nd Battalion, 160th SOAR (A) and completed 5 combat tours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. After one of those deployments, Cory was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for "exceptionally meritorious achievement while assigned as an Intelligence Analyst during combat operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom." In 2005, Cory earned the distinction of being named the Soldier of the Year for the 160th SOAR (A) and was runner-up for the United States Army Special Operation Command (USASOC) Soldier of the Year.
Cory joined the Santa Clara Police Department in 2007 and attended the Alameda County Sheriff's Office 141st Basic Police Academy. Cory was recognized as the honor graduate of his class, and also awarded for his academic achievement and physical fitness achievement. Cory has deep experience across all four divisions of SCPD, having served in several challenging assignments: patrol, crime scene investigator, SWAT, federal task force officer, patrol sergeant, internal affairs sergeant, K9 supervisor, SWAT supervisor (entry team, perimeter team, command post), patrol watch commander, special operations lieutenant, stadium operations, and SWAT commander (Special Response Team). Cory has been highly decorated with awards and achievements throughout his career.
Cory is a graduate of Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with deep ties to the Santa Clara community, where he was raised along with his four siblings. Both Cory and his wife grew up in south Santa Clara and they have chosen to remain and raise their two sons not far from where they grew up. Cory has coached hundreds of local kids as a volunteer across dozens of seasons in baseball, soccer, and basketball. He also has been a long-time member of the board of trustees at the Triton Museum of Art, where he continues to serve. Cory looks forward to the opportunity of continuing his service to Santa Clara as the next Chief of Police.
