Former Oakland Police Chief Sworn in as Fremont's Top Cop

Floyd Mitchell takes on new role leading Fremont Police Department

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:35am

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An extreme close-up of a shiny metal police badge reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the transition of leadership in Fremont's police department.The swearing-in of Fremont's new police chief marks a critical transition as the city aims to maintain its reputation for safety while addressing community concerns.Fremont Today

The city of Fremont has officially sworn in Floyd Mitchell as its new police chief. Mitchell previously served as the police chief in Oakland until last year and is now taking on the top cop role in Fremont, the fourth-largest city in the Bay Area.

Why it matters

Fremont is recognized for its low violent crime rate, but the city continues to face regional challenges like homelessness, traffic, and housing. Mitchell's appointment comes as Fremont aims to maintain its reputation as one of the safest large cities in the region while also addressing community concerns.

The details

Mitchell is well-known to Bay Area residents, having served as Oakland's police chief from May 2024 until October 2025. Despite facing some criticism during his tenure in Oakland, Fremont city leaders welcomed him with open arms during the swearing-in ceremony. Mitchell noted that he already has established relationships with former Fremont Police Chief Sean Washington and is ready to hit the ground running.

  • On Thursday, Fremont officially swore in Floyd Mitchell as its new police chief.
  • Mitchell served as Oakland's police chief from May 2024 until October 2025.

The players

Floyd Mitchell

The new police chief of Fremont, who previously served as the police chief in Oakland.

Kathy Kimberlin

A Fremont City Councilmember who noted the need for the "tri-cities" (Fremont, Newark, and Union City) to work together on regional challenges.

Salim Mastan

A 48-year Fremont resident who emphasized the need for the new police chief to address homelessness without criminalization.

Raj Salwan

The mayor of Fremont, who underscored the high standards the community holds for its police force and the importance of maintaining Fremont's reputation as one of the safest large cities.

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What they’re saying

“I'm already ahead of the game because I already know these folks and have established relationships with them.”

— Floyd Mitchell, New Fremont Police Chief

“The tri-cities, we all work together, and it should go beyond because we're really all suffering from some of the challenges.”

— Kathy Kimberlin, Fremont City Councilmember

“They are not criminals. We want to see the chief find ways to tackle homelessness without criminalization to ensure Fremont remains 'the happiest city'.”

— Salim Mastan, Fremont Resident

“We want to make sure that Fremont continues to be one of the safest large cities with a diverse department that is very inclusive and that reflects our community.”

— Raj Salwan, Fremont Mayor

What’s next

Potential candidates for the vacant police chief position in Oakland are expected to begin the interview process in late April or early May.

The takeaway

Mitchell's appointment as Fremont's new police chief comes at a critical time as the city aims to maintain its reputation as one of the safest large cities in the region while also addressing community concerns around issues like homelessness and inclusivity within the police department.