Lafayette Names Its New Police Chief

Lafayette City Manager Steven Falk Thursday announced that Contra Costa County Sheriff's Lieutenant Eric Christensen will replace retiring chief Mike Hubbard, who leaves at the end of this month.

In his announcement, Falk made note of Christensen's qualifications, which include the fact that he:

• Holds a BS in Criminal Justice Administration from Cal State Hayward
• Spent three years in the U.S. Army, and six in the Army Reserve
• Joined the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office in 1991, and has twenty years of local law enforcement experience including:

o   Patrol deputy and detective for the San Ramon Police Department

o   Supervising sergeant for the Oakley Police Department

o   Managed the Sheriff’s Department Emergency Services Support Unit for three years

o   Served at the rank of Lieutenant for five years.

During his career, Lt. Christensen has won several Sheriff’s Office awards, including the:

• Custody Services Officer of the Year (1997)
• Patrol Division Deputy of the Year (1999)

"With his extensive background in local law enforcement in suburban communities, Lt. Christensen is well-qualified to serve Lafayette," Falk wrote. "Given our potential for catastrophic wildland fires, mudslides, earthquakes, and flooding, Christensen’s experience in the Emergency Services Support Unit should be valuable to the community." 

Lt. Christensen will succeed Lt. Michael Hubbard, effective March 29.