Elk Grove has new police chief

ELK GROVE, CA – City Manager Laura S. Gill announced the selection today of Robert M. Lehner as Chief of Police of the Elk Grove Police Department.

“Chief Lehner has a distinguished career in law enforcement, and brings a tremendous blend of experience and education to the City of Elk Grove,” said Gill. “He is smart, focused, innovative, and by far the most qualified person to lead the Elk Grove Police Department into a new chapter.”

Lehner has 30-years of experience in large municipal law enforcement agencies and has most recently served as the Chief of Police for the City of Eugene, the second largest city in Oregon. Prior to his service in Eugene, Chief Lehner served the City of Tucson Police Department, rising through the ranks to become Assistant Police Chief. Chief Lehner holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Business and Public Administration. He has also completed a number of professional programs, including the FBI National Academy and the Senior Executive Institute at the University of Virginia.

Chief Lehner’s professional experience includes supervising and managing every aspect of complex municipal policing services including patrol, investigative and administrative functions. He has a strong background in community policing, and has developed partnerships with neighborhoods, civic groups, and business organizations to identify common goals and solutions.

“The City Manager’s selection of Chief Lehner says big things about Elk Grove. His resume is strong and Elk Grove expects no less,” Mayor Gary Davis said. “Public safety is our most fundamental responsibility to this community, and I am confident Chief Lehner will continue the standard of excellence and professionalism at the Elk Grove Police Department and serve the department and the citizens of Elk Grove extremely well.”

Chief Lehner’s starting date is October 20. A swearing in ceremony is set to follow.

Chief Lehner’s selection from over 40 applicants is the result of an extensive six-month recruitment process involving multiple interviews with elected officials, community leaders, citizens, employees and the Police Officer Association. The interview process consisted of two panels, multiple interviews, and a thorough background investigation.

For more information, contact the City Manager’s office at 916-478-2201. For more information about the Elk Grove Police Department visit www.elkgrovepd.org.