Chief Bisa French, the first woman and also the first woman of color to lead the Richmond Police Department, announced she will retire effective Jan. 16, 2026, concluding a 27-year career during which she rose up the ranks.
Chief French began her tenure with the department in 1998 as a police officer. Over the years, she served as a sergeant, lieutenant, captain and deputy chief. She was appointed as police chief in 2020.
She is hailed for her emphasis on building trust between police and community members. Despite efforts by City Council to defund the RPD in recent years, Chief French oversaw some of the city’s lowest homicide rates. The department credits her with expanding de-escalation training, improving technology and deepening collaboration with residents and local organizations.
“Serving the City of Richmond has been the honor of my life,” said Chief French. “Leading this department and working alongside the men and women of RPD-whose commitment and compassion inspire me every day-has been the highlight of my career. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and proud of what we have accomplished together.”
The City of Richmond will initiate a search for a new police chief.
