Lincoln has picked its next police chief. He has deep ties to Placer County

Zachary Eaton will become Lincoln’s next police chief later this month, taking over the department as Chief Matt Alves prepares to retire.

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Eaton, a 16-year law enforcement veteran and lifelong Placer County resident, will take over as chief Sept. 17, the city announced Wednesday.

The appointment comes less than a year after Eaton joined the Lincoln Police Department. He arrived in January as captain, overseeing the department’s daily operations and administrative functions.

Before coming to Lincoln, Eaton spent more than 15 years with the Sacramento Police Department. His assignments included patrol, gang enforcement, major crimes, criminal intelligence, public information and internal affairs, as well as executive leadership roles.

City Manager Sean Scully said Eaton’s experience and familiarity with the region made him a strong choice to lead the department.

“Chief Eaton brings extensive experience, strong regional relationships and a genuine commitment to the Lincoln community,” he said. “In his time with the City, he has quickly become a valued member of our team and has shown a strong understanding of both our department and community.”

Eaton grew up in the area and graduated from Rocklin High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Pepperdine University and a master’s degree in law enforcement and public safety leadership from the University of San Diego.

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Eaton said leading the department is particularly meaningful because of his longtime ties to Placer County.

“I have called Placer County home for nearly my entire life, and it is the greatest professional honor of my career to lead the Lincoln Police Department,” Eaton said.

He also praised the officers and professional staff who make up the department, saying their work often involves personal risk and sacrifice.

“Every day, the men and women of this department put on a vest and step into harm’s way to protect people they may never meet, help those who need it most, and hold accountable those who would harm our community,” Eaton said.

Eaton will succeed Alves, who will retire after more than 25 years with the Lincoln Police Department.

Eaton said he intended to build on the department’s public-safety mission.

“I will give everything I have to ensure LPD continues to lead Lincoln forward with strong public safety,” he said.

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