Thirty years ago, the City of Manteca had 44,000 residents while the school district had three comprehensive high schools — Manteca, Sierra, and East Union.
It is also when a young officer by the name of Stephen Schluer was hired on Sept. 23, 1996 fresh out of the Police Academy in Manteca.
Today, Schluer — who was appointed in December 2022 as the police chief — is marking his 30th anniversary serving and protecting his hometown that now has 98,000 residents and 84 police officers.
“After 30 years, I can honestly say I’m still proud to wear the badge, still believe in this profession, and still feel there’s work left for me to do,” Schluer said. “Law enforcement has given me more than I could have ever imagined, and I believe some of the most meaningful contributions we make come from the wisdom and experience we gain along the way.”
“Wherever you are in your career, never lose sight of the privilege it is to serve, the responsibility that comes with the badge, and the difference you can make in someone’s life.”
The Manteca High graduate was a police cadet in 1987 before going on to secure his degree at Sacramento State University.
Schuler indicated he wanted to be a police officer to give back to the community where he was raised.
His first call as a young officer was a home invasion robbery that occurred at 6:07 a.m.
Schluer’s goal as police chief is to provide strategic, values-driven leadership focused on public safety, organizational excellence, and community trust. He is committed to advancing collaborative partnerships and effective public service that strengthen the quality of life for Manteca residents.
Schluer is in his 12th year as a Manteca Unified School District board member and is currently serving as president. He is also the current president of the Manteca Rotary service club.
He also oversees the Police Chief’s Foundation, is chair of the Friends of Manteca Parks and Recreation, serves as Manteca Every 15 Minutes chairman, is a trustee for Manteca Boys & Girls Club , is an Eskaton Board Member, and is part of the California Peace Officers Memorial Foundation.
Perhaps no one is as proud of Schluer’s career serving Manteca than his wife Thaera who offered the following:
“For three decades, you have dedicated your life to serving and protecting the Manteca community. We have watched you work hard, face challenges, grow as a leader, and ultimately become Chief. We could not be prouder of you and everything you have accomplished.”
“Stephen, as your wife, I have had the privilege of standing beside you throughout this entire journey. We will celebrate 23 years of marriage on Nov. 8, and I am so grateful for the life and family we have built together. I have seen the long hours, sacrifices, dedication, and commitment that come with your career, and I know how much serving this community means to you.”
“Our children, Lela and Collins are incredibly proud to call you their dad. They have grown up watching your dedication and have seen firsthand what it means to serve others.”
“Thirty years with the Manteca Police Department is an amazing accomplishment, but what makes us proudest isn’t the title of Chief or the years you’ve served. It’s the man you are — the husband, father, leader, and person we are blessed to have in our lives.
“We love you more than words can express and are so incredibly proud of you.”
