Kenneth (Ken) Stenquist, a 20-year veteran of the Belmont Police Department, has been appointed as the city’s next police chief, City Manager Afshin Oskoui announced Nov. 29. Chief Stenquist had served as interim police chief since July, following the retirement of Chief Tony Psaila.
The city described Chief Stenquist as “highly respected by his peers throughout the county and known for his tireless work ethic.” He rose through the ranks of the department in a wide variety of assignments, including as patrol officer, field training officer, school resource officer, SWAT Team leader, firearms instructor, patrol sergeant, and operations lieutenant, the city said.
“He oversaw the creation of the police department’s newly formed Community Academy, as well as the Crisis Assessment Response and Education (C.A.R.E.) program created to manage the City’s response to mental health emergencies,” city officials said in a statement.
In the statement, Chief Stenquist said he’s proud and honored to be chosen for the role.
“I am committed to keeping lines of communication open with the community, and maintaining trust between our officers and the public,” the chief said.
City Manager Oskoui said Chief Stenquist’s leadership will “continue building upon a responsive, transparent and innovative department which will serve our community well.”
“Ken has earned the trust of the Belmont community and we look forward to his leadership,” Oskoui said.
Chief Stenquist holds a bachelor’s degree from Notre Dame de Namur University and will soon complete a master’s degree in public administration from California Coast University.
Photo courtesy of the Belmont Police Department
