The City of San Ramon proudly announces the appointment of Denton Carlson as the next Chief of Police for San Ramon. Carlson, currently serving as Captain with the San Ramon Police Department, emerged as the successful candidate following a rigorous nationwide search, which involved evaluations by a Community Member panel, a Subject Matter Expert panel, and an Internal Staff panel.
With a commendable career spanning over two decades, Carlson has been an integral part of the San Ramon Police Department since its inception in 2007. His journey began with five years of dedicated service as a contract officer with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, before transitioning to the newly established San Ramon Police Department in 2007. Throughout his tenure, Carlson has played a pivotal role in various key initiatives within the department, including the development and implementation of the Community Resource and Crime Prevention Division, as well as the enhancement of the department’s social media outreach and public safety emergency communications platforms.
Mayor David Hudson expressed his confidence in Carlson’s leadership, emphasizing his invaluable contributions to the community over the past two decades. Carlson’s wealth of experience and dedication to fostering a safe and secure environment make him a fitting successor to former Chief Craig Stevens, who retired in March 2022 and has been serving as the interim Chief during the recruitment period.
The official swearing-in ceremony for Chief Carlson will take place during the San Ramon City Council Meeting on Tuesday, July 26, at San Ramon City Hall (7000 Bollinger Canyon Road), beginning at 7 p.m. The event will also serve as an opportunity to honor the service of Chief Stevens. The City encourages community members to attend and participate in this significant occasion.
Carlson’s journey in law enforcement commenced in 1998 as a Deputy Sheriff with the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff, before his notable contributions to the San Ramon community from 2002 onwards. Over the years, he has held various positions within the San Ramon Police Department, demonstrating a strong commitment to community engagement, professional development, and public safety communication.
Apart from his significant role within the Police Department, Carlson has also served as the Director of the City of San Ramon’s Office of Emergency Management for the past seven years. His academic accomplishments include a Master’s degree in Emergency Services Administration from California State University, Long Beach, as well as prestigious certifications from the California Peace Officer Standards and Training Command College and the California Police Chiefs Association’s Executive Development Certification Program.
With an impressive track record and a commitment to excellence in law enforcement, Carlson’s appointment as Chief of Police signifies a new chapter in San Ramon’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its community.
