Novato Police Captain Appointed As New Chief

NOVATO, CA — Novato police Capt. Matt McCaffrey has been appointed as the city's new police chief.

McCaffrey has been with the Novato Police Department since 2015, overseeing both the operations and administrative divisions. As police chief, he will oversee the 61 sworn and 25 professional staff members in the department.

"I've always felt fortunate that I was able to find a place like Novato where the community appreciates the men and women who make protecting their community a priority," McCaffrey said.

"I was impressed with our staff from my first day here and continue to be impressed with their dedication and commitment in providing police services to the Novato Community. I look forward to continuing to work with all city staff to provide excellent service to our community and making Novato a great place to live, work and play in."

McCaffrey worked for 30 years in the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office and two and a half years with the Sonoma County Community College District police.

He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice management from the Union Institute and University, and is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Academy. He also holds a management and executive certificate from the state's Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.

"There was no doubt in my mind that Matt was the right person for the job," City Manager Adam McGill said. "His experience and proven record in sound decision making made Matt an obvious choice."

McGill, Novato's police chief since 2017, was appointed city manager on Nov. 12.

"I know he will continue moving the department in the right direction and provide the same leadership that he has at the captain rank," McGill said. "Not only did I get to see that firsthand during my time as the chief of police, but during the transition period during the past few months, I have seen Matt step into the role of chief of police without missing a beat."

McCaffrey, a Santa Rosa resident, assumes the chief's position on Monday. His base salary will be $209,999.