SACRAMENTO, Calif. (PSN) — Kathy Lester, the Chief of the Sacramento Police Department, announced she will retire after 32 years in law enforcement, with her final day set for May 15, according to a statement released by the department.
“After 32 years in law enforcement, I have made the decision to retire,” Lester said. “Serving the Sacramento community has been the honor of my career. This decision comes at the right time for me and my family, and I look forward to the next chapter.”
Lester said she is proud of the department’s progress in recent years, citing efforts to reduce violence, strengthen partnerships and implement strategies aimed at improving public safety.
“We’ve made real progress—we didn’t just hold the line, we turned a corner,” she said. “The department is in a strong position today, and I wanted to ensure that before making this decision.”
Lester also voiced support for Maraskeshia Smith, Sacramento’s City Manager, noting their close working relationship and expressing confidence in the city’s leadership moving forward.
Smith praised Lester’s tenure, highlighting her decades of service and leadership. “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.”
To ensure continuity, Lester announced she will appoint Deputy Chief Zachary Bales as interim chief upon her retirement.
Bales, who has been with the department since 2002, is currently assigned as the Deputy Chief supervising the Office of Investigations. His career includes assignments as a patrol officer, homicide detective, internal affairs investigator, patrol commander and division leader, among other roles.
Before joining the department, Bales served as a U.S. Army armored cavalry officer, attaining the rank of captain and earning multiple military commendations. He holds degrees in law and society and criminal intelligence, along with several advanced law enforcement certifications.
Lester said Bales brings experience and leadership necessary to guide the department through the transition.
“I am confident in Interim Chief Bales’ ability to lead the department and ensure continuity during this transition,” Lester said.
The city has not yet announced a timeline for selecting a permanent police chief.