New Interim Police Chief named for Folsom

Folsom city officials have selected an Interim Police Chief to lead the city's Police Department as they search for a replacement for retiring Chief Rick Hillman. On Friday June 27, Folsom City Manager Bryan Whitemyer announced that Randy Ulibarri has been selected as Interim Folsom Police Chief, effective July 1, 2025. Chief Ulibarri's appointment is the result of Chief Hillman's retirement, effective June 30, 2025. According to a statement from the city, Chief Ulibarri has over forty years of law enforcement experience in police departments across five California cities. He previously served as the Interim Chief of Police for Folsom from 2010 to 2011. He also held the position of Chief of Police for Union City for six years and served as Interim Chief of Police for the cities of Williams, Vacaville, and Newman. "I look forward to serving the Folsom community, which I am proud to call home," Ulibarri said. "My top focus will be to work with the city's incredible Police Department staff and volunteers to maintain Folsom's well-earned status as one of the safest cities in the country." At the City of Folsom, Chief Ulibarri will lead a team of more than 175 employees. Ulibarri will oversee a wide range of Police Department services and programs, including community policing, animal services, autism and dementia assistance, fentanyl abuse prevention and education, Homeless Outreach Team (HOT), Neighborhood Watch, youth programs, and more, according to city officials. "Chief Ulibarri is an experienced law enforcement professional who is well-suited to lead the Folsom Police Department," said Whitemyer. "His familiarity with our city, including his time as a resident and as Interim Chief of Police, will be a great asset in helping keep Folsom a safe place to live, work, and recreate." Ulibarri holds a bachelor's degree in sociology from California State University, Hayward, an associate's degree from Ohlone Community College, along with credentials from the FBI National Academy, the Post Supervisory Leadership Institute, and the California State Department of Justice Commission on P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training).