Stephen Redfearn named next Boulder Police Department chief [Video]

BOULDER, Colo. — Stephen Redfearn was named the next Boulder Police Department police chief on Friday effective immediately.

Redfearn has been a member of the Boulder Police Department (BPD) for three years and has served as interim chief since January.

Boulder’s city manager said the decision to promote Redfearn followed a national and competitive search.

“I have watched Steve take on the challenges that face his profession with heart, strategic thinking and a clear understanding that policing needs to change,” said Boulder City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde. “I believe he is uniquely positioned as our next chief. Steve understands the importance of establishing deep relationships with the community we all serve, and I am confident he will both lean into the promise of Reimagine Policing and make it a reality.”

Redfearn joined BPD as deputy chief in 2021, after 25 years in policing-related public service.

Redfearn started his career as a cadet …