The City of Walnut Creek has selected Tom Chaplin, 23-year law enforcement veteran, to be its next Chief of Police, City Manager Ken Nordhoff announced today.
“Tom has extensive background in all aspects of police work and law enforcement,” said Nordhoff. “He is an open-minded, energetic leader whose collaborative approach toward working with the police department, the organization as a whole, the City Council and the community will ensure the continued safety and well-being of our community.”
Chaplin is currently a Commander with the Citrus Heights Police Department. He has served as a lieutenant and as commander for both the Patrol Services Division and for the Investigative Services Division. He joined the Department in 2006 as a member of the start-up team, and helped establish the department’s Juvenile Diversion and Education Program and the Youth and Family Services Unit. In addition, he founded the Citrus Heights Police Activities League and has served as its president.
Prior to joining the Citrus Heights Police Department, Chaplin was a special agent in charge for the California Department of Justice and served 11 years with the Sacramento Police Department, where he held a variety of assignments ranging from serving as a Neighborhood Police Officer to working as an undercover narcotics detective.
Chaplin said he is looking forward to getting to know the Walnut Creek community and the City organization.
“I am very excited to become a member of the Walnut Creek community. I am honored to serve as police chief for this highly respected police department. I am very impressed with the city’s government and leadership,” he said, noting in particular the City Council’s commitment to long-term fiscal stability.
“I’ve seen other cities struggle to maintain services because they did not plan ahead,” he said. “Walnut Creek is doing an excellent job of making sure the city continues to be a fantastic place to be and to work.”
Chaplin’s first day on the job will be July 8. He will be paid $188,400.
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