SAN RAMON, CALIFORNIA – It’s a big deal for a fast-growing East Bay city. The City of San Ramon has officially sworn in its first female police chief.
Captain Becky Chestnut took the oath of office at the San Ramon City Council’s regular meeting this week, formally stepping into the role as Chief of Police as longtime Chief Denton Carlson retires. Her appointment becomes effective Dec. 15, according to the city.
According to the department, “Former San Ramon Police Chiefs joined in support, sharing how proud they are to see Becky carry forward the department’s legacy. Speaking to them, Chief Chestnut said, “We’re creating history and it’s so exciting. You laid the foundation and we’re here to keep it going.”
Chestnut is the first woman ever to lead the San Ramon Police Department. She brings more than two decades of law enforcement experience, including roughly 13 years with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and ten years with SRPD, where she joined in 2015.
In a city news release announcing her selection last month, City Manager Steven Spedowfski praised her long tenure in the community and called her understanding of San Ramon’s values a key reason she was chosen to lead the department.
Chestnut holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration and a master’s degree in leadership communication.
The city has faced far more crime lately than it usually does. Good luck to Chestnut as she steps into the force’s top role!
