The City of Richmond has named Assistant Chief Timothy Simmons as the city’s next police chief, City Manager Shasa Curl announced.
Simmons, selected after a recruitment process that included community members, city staff and municipal professionals, will take over the post on Jan. 17, 2026.
Simmons succeeds Chief Bisa French, who earlier this fall announced plans to retire. French, the first woman and first woman of color to lead RPD, is stepping down on Jan. 16, 2026, after more than 27 years with the department.
Simmons has served with RPD for 17 years, rising through the ranks from beat officer to sergeant, lieutenant, captain and assistant chief. In speaking on his appointment, Curl said Simmons brings the experience and commitment to community-centered policing that will help build on recent departmental progress.
During his career with RPD, Simmons co-facilitated the Community Safety Academy and served as the department’s representative to local safety reform efforts. He also holds a Master’s degree in Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego.
In a statement, Simmons said he is honored by the appointment and pledged to lead a department grounded in transparency, collaborative problem-solving and policing that reflects the diversity of Richmond.
The city will formally introduce Chief-designate Simmons at the upcoming meeting of the Richmond City Council today.