Christopher Williams sworn in as Santa Maria police chief

City Manager David Rollins introduced Christopher Williams as the new chief of the Santa Maria Police Department and summarized Williams' career before the council administered the oath of office.

Chief Christopher Williams, who previously served with the Oxnard Police Department and rose to assistant police chief, took the oath and then addressed the council and community. Williams cited his family and community ties, thanked City Manager David Rollins and council members, and pledged to work with department staff and residents to address public safety concerns.

The city manager said Williams holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational management from the University of La Verne, a master’s in homeland security and emergency management from National University, completed the FBI National Academy (Class 273) and has served in assignments including school resource officer, gang investigation and homicide sergeant. Rollins said a citizens’ panel and an internal staff panel interviewed candidates and Williams was selected.

Williams said he is committed to partnering with the community, forming lasting relationships and listening to residents’ concerns. He thanked his family, mentors and law enforcement colleagues who attended the ceremony. His father, Richard Williams, pinned the badge during the formal portion of the event.

The council did not take a separate vote at the meeting to appoint Williams (the appointment proceeded under the city manager’s personnel authority and with the ceremonial oath). City staff and the new chief said Williams succeeds former Chief Mark Schneider, who retired in November 2024.