John Cregan, an officer with 23 years of experience, has been appointed as the new chief of police for the city of Santa Rosa.
Santa Rosa City Manager Maraskeshia Smith appointed Cregan, the interim chief of police since his predecessor Rainer Navarro’s retirement in May, to begin the position on July 3.
Cregan, who has worked for the Santa Rosa Police Department for 17 years, has served as police captain, managing the special services division and the field services division.
The interim chief is also credited with developing and implementing the inRESPONSE Mental Health Support Team, which diverts calls for service to mental health professionals in Santa Rosa, city officials said.
Smith said that Cregan was chosen following support in stakeholder and community feedback.
“John has been integral in building the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) culture within the department,” Smith said. “He has a proven leadership track record, demonstrating a profound knowledge of our community and the police department. I am confident he will lead the department to the next level, making our neighborhoods and city safer.”
Santa Rosa Mayor Chris Rogers commended Cregan’s experience with the police department.
“The department is in good hands with Chief Cregan at the helm,” Rogers said.
Cregan is expected to outline his violence reduction plan, increase enforcement of illegal sideshows and lead initiatives to help build community trust during his first 90 days as chief, officials said.
The interim chief will implement intelligence-based policing and increase police department wellness programs and equitable policing practices, city officials said.
“I am both honored and grateful to assume the role of chief of this great organization,” Cregan said. “I look forward to building on the established legacy of the Santa Rosa Police Department, making it a place where people want to work and a department that reflects the needs and expectations of our community.”
The city of Santa Rosa will announce a swearing-in ceremony at a later date.