Police Chief Kathy Lester announced her retirement on Apr. 13 after serving for 32 years in law enforcement. Her last day as Chief of Police will be May 15.
Lester said that serving the Sacramento community has been the honor of her career and described her decision to retire as coming at the right time for herself and her family. She also reflected on recent progress made by the department, saying, “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made over the past several years—reducing violence, strengthening partnerships, and building strategies that are making a difference. We’ve made real progress—we didn’t just hold the line, we turned a corner. The department is in a strong position today, and I wanted to ensure that before making this decision.”
Lester expressed support for City Manager Maraskeshia Smith, stating: “We have worked closely together, and I have full confidence in her leadership and in the direction of the organization moving forward.”
Smith thanked Lester for more than three decades of public service and praised her leadership within the Sacramento Police Department. “Chief Lester has dedicated more than three decades to public service and has led the Sacramento Police Department with professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to community safety,” Smith said. “Under her leadership, the department has made meaningful progress in reducing violence and strengthening partnerships across our city. I appreciate Chief Lester’s leadership and her commitment to ensuring a strong and stable transition for the department.”
To maintain continuity following Lester’s departure, Smith will appoint Deputy Chief Zachary Bales as Interim Chief of Police effective upon Lester’s retirement.
The transition marks a significant change in leadership for Sacramento’s police force while highlighting ongoing efforts to reduce violence and build stronger community ties.
