Medford Police Lieutenant Recognized Among Top Rising Law Enforcement

Published on September 17, 2026

Medford Police Lieutenant Rebecca Pietila has been named a 2026 40 Under 40 Award recipient by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), recognizing her leadership, service and commitment to the law enforcement profession and the Medford community.

The annual award recognizes 40 law enforcement professionals under the age of 40 from around the world who demonstrate leadership, dedication and service to their communities and the profession.

“Rebecca is a trusted and respected leader who has made a meaningful impact throughout her career,” said Medford Police Chief Trevor Arnold. “She has a unique ability to lead complex operations while building strong relationships with our employees, community partners and residents. This recognition is incredibly well deserved.”

Pietila has served in law enforcement for more than 17 years and joined the Medford Police Department in 2010. She has held several leadership positions within MPD and, since 2023, has led the Community Engagement Division, overseeing teams focused on livability, traffic safety, schools, code enforcement and community outreach.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition, but the work has always been about serving this community and finding better ways to respond to the challenges people are facing,” said Pietila. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside great people, both within MPD and throughout our community, who are willing to try new approaches, build partnerships and do the work it takes to make Medford better.”

Throughout her career, Pietila has helped connect police operations with broader community needs. She serves as the primary law enforcement liaison and trainer for Jackson County’s Deflection Program, helped advance MPD’s Latino Citizen’s Academy and has supported initiatives ranging from the Rogue Valley Girls Police Camp to employee mentorship programs.

Her work has also gained recognition beyond Medford. In 2026, Pietila presented on “The Medford Model” at a national co-responder conference, sharing the community-based approach used locally to address livability and behavioral health needs. Previous honors

include recognition as a Top 10 Emerging Leader in 2024 and MPD’s 2023 Outstanding Achievement Award for the Livability Team.

Pietila will be featured in the September 2026 issue of Police Chief magazine and recognized at the IACP 40 Under 40 Award Luncheon during the organization’s Annual Conference and Exposition in Orlando in October.