State Accredited Agency

Police Chief

Richard "Rick" Smith

Police Chief Rick Smith has served in the City's top law enforcement post in February 2007 after 18 years in law enforcement that included twelve years were with the Vancouver (Wash.) Police Department where he rose to Precinct Commander, and six spent with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

While in Vancouver, Smith worked his way up the promotional ladder from patrol officer to the position of Assistant Police Chief and East Precinct Commander, the latter a position he has held since July 2005. Other key leadership posts he has served include Commander of the Investigations Division, and the Tactical Operations Division that investigates major crimes, violent crimes, child abuse, drugs crimes and e-crimes. He also helped establish a Regional Domestic Violence Unit.

Smith says he is impressed with the Marysville Police Department, the direction the city is headed, and the positive relationship that the Mayor, Council, police and city staff now share.

“This is a rare opportunity for a new chief to take an already great police department to the next level, and do so in an environment that enjoys excellent City Council and citizen support,” Smith says. “I am ready to get started, and I thank the Mayor, Chief Administrative Officer and City Council for putting their confidence in me.”

Mayor Dennis Kendall says Smith brings a proven record of effective leadership, knowledge and managing skills that make him the right fit for the job.

“He will be a true leader as well as police chief,” Kendall says. “Rick places high emphasis on accountability for all police services, customer service and problem-solving.”

Smith says he enjoys working with others to solve problems and find solutions in a rapidly changing environment. “I am excited about the possibilities for growth, working hard to enhance police services in Marysville, and professional development for members of the department.

Smith oversees a department of more than 50 sworn police officers, a Community Service Officer, 11 custody officers and support staff, with an operating budget of $9.8 million.

He graduated in June 2005 from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Concordia University in Portland, Ore., graduating Summa Cum Laude.

Smith and his wife, Chris, have two children, a college-age son and a daughter in high school.