Dublin Police Chief Nathan Schmidt Announces Retirement

Dublin Police Chief Nathan Schmidt has announced that he will retire from his post, effective October 15. Chief Schmidt, who is a Commander with the Alameda County Sheriff's Office, began his role as Dublin Police Chief on March 19, 2023. This was his third stint with Dublin Police Services.

"It has been an honor to serve the City of Dublin for nearly 20 years, and the last eighteen months as the Chief of Police," said Chief Schmidt. "As I prepare to retire from my role as Police Chief, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to the residents, businesses, and leaders of this wonderful city. Serving the Dublin community has been a tremendous honor, and I am incredibly thankful for the support, trust, and partnership you have shown me and the entire police department throughout my tenure. Whether through our community policing programs, neighborhood events, or just day-to-day interactions, I have always felt proud to serve such a diverse and caring city. This strong connection between the police department and the community is what truly makes Dublin a special place, and I am confident that this partnership will continue to thrive long after I leave."

Commander Schmidt has worked in law enforcement for 25 years, 20 of which were spent working in Dublin. He began his career with the Alameda County Sheriff's Office in September 1999. As a Deputy, he worked at the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, and at Dublin Police Services as a Patrol Officer and, later, as a Detective. In December 2006, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and continued at Dublin Police Services as a Patrol Supervisor and Detective Sergeant. After being promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in December 2011, he worked at the Glenn E. Dyer Jail in Oakland, and at the Eden Township Station before returning to Dublin Police Services as both the Operations Lieutenant and Administrative Lieutenant. He was promoted to the rank of Captain in September 2016 and worked for a short time at the Santa Rita Jail before returning to Dublin Police. In January 2023, he was promoted to the rank of Commander.

"On behalf of the City of Dublin and our entire community, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude and deep appreciation to Police Chief Schmidt for his 25 years of dedicated service to our city," said Dublin Mayor Michael McCorriston. "Chief Schmidt has led our police department with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. His leadership has been instrumental in maintaining the peace, fostering community relationships, and ensuring that Dublin remains a safe and vibrant place to live, work, and raise a family."

Chief Schmidt spent a great deal of time engaging the community at City events. Last fall, he and former Mayor Melissa Hernadez led a community bike ride through Dublin. He also spent time at many "Coffee with the Chief" events or at the Dublin Farmers' Market.

"As Chief Schmidt embarks on his well-deserved retirement, we wish him all the best in this next chapter," said Dublin City Manager Colleen Tribby. "His contributions to Dublin will always be remembered, and he leaves behind a legacy of service that will inspire future generations of law enforcement officers. Thank you, Chief Schmidt, for your exemplary service and dedication to our city. You will be greatly missed."

Chief Schmidt grew up in nearby Livermore, graduating from Granada High School. He went on to study at University of California, Davis, earning a degree in Sociology.

An announcement regarding Chief Schmidt's replacement will be forthcoming.