Danville's First Police Chief, Longtime Public Servant, Dies

DANVILLE, CA — Danville's first police chief, Ken Sandy, died Dec. 24 at 82 years old, after decades of service to the community.

Sandy remains the town's longest-serving police chief after he took over the helm of the department in 1982, when the town was first incorporated, until his retirement in 1992, the town said in a tribute to Sandy. He served nearly three decades at the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office — which runs the Danville Police Department — beginning in 1975.

“Ken laid the foundation for the Police Department through his strong leadership and commitment, allowing those who followed to continue to build on a public safety platform that is community-focused and works hard at protecting the lives, rights, and property of the community," said Chief Allan Shields in the statement.

Though Sandy retired from law enforcement, he remained active around Danville and served four terms on the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District Board of Directors. He frequented local service clubs and faith organizations, the town said.

"Thank you for your service, Ken," the town wrote. "You will be missed."

He leaves behind wife Dorothy, daughter Reagan Hall, and stepchildren Jennifer Maher, Kim Prosser and Ron Maher.