Message from the Chief
Welcome to the Lincoln Police Department
Chief of Police
Zach Eaton
As Chief, I am proud to lead a team whose mission is clear: LPD LEADS Lincoln Forward with Public Safety. Every day, our officers, staff, and partners work to lower crime across our neighborhoods, empower and invest in the people who serve this city, advance morale and accountability at every level, deliver quality service that residents can count on, and strengthen the bonds of community engagement that make Lincoln strong.
These commitments are not abstract ideals—they guide how we protect and serve. We know that lasting public safety is built on authentic relationships. When officers know the people, businesses, schools, and community groups in the areas they patrol, trust grows, information flows both ways, and problems are solved together before they escalate. That partnership is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent crime and keep Lincoln the safe, vibrant community we are all proud to call home.
Our approach is grounded in the six pillars of 21st Century Policing. We focus on building trust and legitimacy so that every resident sees us as guardians who act with fairness and respect. We maintain strong policy and oversight that reflect community values and hold us accountable. We use technology and social media thoughtfully to increase transparency and effectiveness.
We practice community policing that co-produces safety with the people we serve. We invest in continuous training and education so our team remains professional, skilled, and prepared. And we prioritize officer wellness and safety because the men and women who protect Lincoln must themselves be supported and healthy.
Together—through partnership, professionalism, and a shared commitment to this city—we will continue to move Lincoln forward. I am honored to serve this community and grateful for the trust you place in us each day. Let’s keep building a safer, stronger Lincoln—together.
Zach Eaton
Chief of Police
Biography
Zachary Eaton brings more than 16 years of law enforcement and public-safety leadership experience to the Lincoln Police Department. He joined the department in January 2026 as a Captain, overseeing daily operations and key administrative functions before being selected to serve as Chief of Police.
Prior to joining Lincoln, Chief Eaton served with the Sacramento Police Department beginning in 2010. His career included assignments in Patrol, Regional Transit, Gang Enforcement, Major Crimes, Criminal Intelligence, Patrol Supervisor, Gang Enforcement Supervisor, Public Information, Watch Commander, Internal Affairs, and executive leadership. Across these roles, he led complex public-safety operations, advanced professional standards and accountability, and served as a trusted spokesperson for the department.
Recognized regionally for his expertise in criminal street gangs, Chief Eaton has led complex violent crime and criminal intelligence investigations. His approach to public safety emphasizes proactive, constitutional policing that identifies and addresses crime trends early; strong coordination with regional law-enforcement partners; and the thoughtful use of technology to improve situational awareness, investigative effectiveness, transparency, and service to the community.
Chief Eaton is committed to building meaningful relationships between law enforcement and the people it serves. He believes public safety is strengthened through visible, approachable leadership; continuous communication; and active partnerships with residents, businesses, schools, community organizations, and local government. He is known for building high-performing teams and leading with an accessible, servant-leadership style.
A lifelong member of the greater Placer County community, Chief Eaton has lived in Placer County for 36 of his 39 years. He is a graduate of Rocklin High School and is proud to raise his family in the region with his wife.
Chief Eaton holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Pepperdine University and a Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego.
His career honors include the Sacramento Police Department Distinguished Service Award, two Unit Citations, a Community Service Award, three Employee of the Quarter recognitions, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office Distinguished Service Award, the California Peace Officers Association’s 12 Under 12 Award, and an ATF Appreciation Award.
