Novato Names New Police Chief

NOVATO, CA — Novato leaders have selected the city's new police chief, naming Jim Naugle to take over the department's top post. Naugle was born and raised in Petaluma and will take over as Novato's 13th chief of police, bringing a career that began in Novato in 1998 full circle.

During his early days with Novato, the new chief worked patrol, was a member of the special response team, and served as an instructor for DARE and defensive tactics. Since 2001, Naugle has worked for the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, working his way from patrol deputy to sergeant, lieutenant, and captain before rising to assistant sheriff.

"Jim's proven record of accomplishment and leadership with the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office makes him an excellent match for the Novato Police Department and for our community," said Adam McGill, Novato City Manager. "His depth of knowledge, measured style, and commitment to transparency will help ensure we maintain the high level of public safety standards that our community has come to expect."

According to city officials, Naugle's 22 years of service in Sonoma County included work in defensive tactics and internal affairs, showing a commitment to community policing and teamwork. He received a bachelor's degree in environmental biology and management from the University of Davis and is an advisor for the Salvation Army.

Naugle and his wife Kim have four sons, including one high schooler and three college students, and he coaches high school sports in his free time.

"I feel so fortunate to return to Novato after 22 years to lead the outstanding team of law enforcement professionals that make up our department," Naugle said in a statement. "As your chief, I'm excited to get to know this community and look forward to finding opportunities to build partnerships that'll enable our police team to provide the best possible public safety service. More than partnerships, I want to reach further into the community to those who don't think about the police department on a daily basis and ensure we're meeting the expectations of all our community members."

Naugle is scheduled to take over as chief on Oct. 23 and will be paid an annual salary of $212,882. A formal swearing-in ceremony is planned for Nov. 14.