From Dispatch to Chief

As Chief Jamie Knox prepares to retire at year-end, he reflects on the trials, and triumphs and the moments that mattered most.

As Chief Jamie Knox prepares to retire after more than 30 years in law enforcement, he reflects on a career defined by dedication, resilience, and leadership. The walls of his Walnut Creek Police Department office, soon to be bare, are filled with memories—commendations and accreditations that tell the story of a man who has shaped both his agency and his community.

Early Beginnings

Knox’s journey began as a 20-year-old dispatcher in Rocklin, CA, guiding officers through chaotic graveyard shifts. His passion for teamwork was evident early, from Little League baseball to Boy Scouts, and later as a Cadet and 9-1-1 Dispatcher in Roseville. Yet, Knox quickly realized he wanted to be out on the streets, directly serving the community. “Wearing a headset and telling the police where the action was just didn’t do it for me. I wanted to be out on the street—where it happens,” he recalls.

A self-professed perfectionist, Knox’s attention to detail and high standards became hallmarks of his leadership style. He built a reputation for being direct, fair, and transparent, expecting the same level of excellence from his team of 150 personnel.

Diverse Roles and Memorable Assignments

After his time in Roseville, Knox was hired by Rocklin where he served in patrol, SWAT, as a K9 handler, Field Training Officer, and detective. As a detective, he was certified as a child forensic interviewer, handling major

assaults, child abuse cases, homicides, and sexual assaults. Promoted to sergeant in 2007, he returned to patrol, later overseeing the Traffic Unit, SWAT, and the regional bomb team as a lieutenant.

Among his most memorable assignments was his time as a K9 handler. His German Shepherd partner was trained in protection, tracking, and narcotics detection, forging a bond of mutual trust. Knox also cherished his role as a Field Training Officer, passionate about teaching new officers to be safe and effective. “I was a very intense teacher because I wanted to make sure that anyone going through my portion of patrol training would take away some nuggets that would help keep them safe and be a better cop,” he says.

Knox’s work as a detective was particularly meaningful when advocating for child victims. He recalls a case where a child’s accusation was dismissed by adults, but Knox’s experience and intuition led him to believe the child. After a heartfelt prayer on his drive back to the station, he secured a confession and conviction. “There

is no greater reward than securing justice for a crime victim—especially when it’s a child,” Knox reflects.

Leadership and Advanced Training

Knox’s commitment to professional growth led him to the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia—a three-month immersion program for top law enforcement leaders. The Academy not only enhanced his leadership and investigative skills but also connected him to a global policing network. Knox recently sponsored a captain to attend, underscoring his belief in the program’s value.

Throughout his career, Knox credits his mentors and colleagues for his success. To pay it forward, he promoted six of eight officers onhis Command Staff, some twice, and inspired several officers from his former agency to join him in Walnut Creek.

Challenges and Resilience

Policing is not for the faint of heart, Knox admits. Officers often encounter people on their worst days, and some cases continue to haunt him. “Everyone processes them differently. To help decompress and maintain mental wellness, departments offer psychological services and coping strategies. It’s also important to have outside activities or hobbies that require focus to completely take your mind off policing,” he advises.

Knox’s career includes 20 years in supervisory roles and 15 years in management, with a decade at the executive level. Leadership at this stage means overseeing people, departments, and multimillion-dollar budgets. Rather than relief, Knox describes this responsibility as “an honor and a privilege to be taken seriously.”

Looking Ahead

For Knox, the badge has always represented a personal commitment to listen, protect, and serve—a promise that guided his career with integrity and purpose. What won’t he miss?

“Those emergency calls at two or three in the morning that demand immediate action. Or having to check my email twice a day, every single day—including Christmas—to read shift reports and stay informed,” he laughs.

Even with trusted captains leading divisions, Knox maintained high involvement, giving autonomy but remaining accountable for all 150 staff members.

Retirement Plans

After more than 30 years—including 13 on the graveyard shift—Knox is ready to reclaim time lost to missed holidays and family milestones. He looks forward to reconnecting with nature through travel, camping, and backpacking in places like Yosemite, as well as hobbies like fishing, woodworking, and metalwork.

Chief Jamie Knox’s legacy is undoubtedly one of service, integrity, and lasting impact—a career truly worth remembering.

By Frank Napoli, Resident since 1996, Member of Police Chief’s Advisory board 2023