Pilot Rock has a new police chief
By Griffin Beach on Wednesday, March 4th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PILOT ROCK – Police Chief Bill Caldera is retiring after 10 years on that job and a 43-year career in law enforcement. At its meeting Tuesday, the Pilot Rock City Council named Sgt. Daniel Badal to serve as chief beginning April 1.
Badal becomes the only officer in the department with Caldera’s retirement. The city is working on an agreement with the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office to provide backup services for him.
This is Caldera’s second retirement. He retired from as a lieutenant from the Pendleton Police Department, where he served for almost 30 years.
He said it the time was right to spend time with his wife doing things for their enjoyment. His official retirement date is May 1.
Badal paid tribute to Caldera, saying he had learned much from his mentor. The feeling of mutual respect is one that the retiring chief shares.
“In my 43 years in law enforcement I can say that Sgt. Badal has the knack to make it.”
Badal is originally from Los Angeles. He has spent many years fighting fires before he moved over to law enforcement. He said he’s honored to serve the Pilot Rock community and plans to continue Caldera’s work of code enforcement and community policing.
“I want to thank my family and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and Bill for being a mentor and an amazing chief,” said Badal.
