Greene Appointed Benicia's Chief Of Police

BENICIA, CA — Benicia police Capt. Mike Greene was appointed chief of police Monday by Benicia City Manager Erik Upson.

"I am confident that Mike will continue to lead the police department with integrity, accountability, and compassion," said Upson. "He will ensure the culture and vision of the department continues to move forward."

Greene replaces Upson as chief of police. In September, Upson, who served as the city's police chief since 2015, was appointed interim city manager. In January, Benicia City Council appointed Upson to the city manager role on a permanent basis.

As for Greene, he started with the Benicia Police Department nearly 30 years ago as a cadet and has experience working in all facets of the department, including dispatch, patrol, investigation, training, hiring and administration.

Greene was appointed interim chief of police in September and has been part of the police department command team for 11 years.

Greene was promoted to captain in 2017, a role in which he oversaw the day-to-day operation of the department and was instrumental in furthering the department's vision and mission.

Greene has a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice administration. He also completed the Senior Management Institute of Policing program at Boston University and graduated from the FBI National Academy.

He is a proud Benicia Panther alumnus and is the son of former owners of a Benicia daycare center.

"I am humbled and honored to lead this department and continue to serve my community and peers in this capacity," Greene said. "Benicia is and will always remain a special place to me, and I am excited for this opportunity to make it an even better and safer city by continuing our strong relationship with the community. I’m excited to continue working with Erik Upson and very proud of the department we have."

Chief Greene is planning to introduce himself to community members by holding virtual meet-and-greets in the coming months. Details will be announced.