The city of Watsonville has selected Brian Shab as its next police chief, city officials announced Tuesday.
Shab, who has more than 27 years of public safety experience, is currently an assistant chief with the San Jose Police Department, where he oversees departmentwide operations serving nearly 1 million residents.
He is expected to begin the Watsonville role in early 2026, pending completion of a background process.
A native of East San Jose, Shab began his public service career with eight years in the military before joining the SJPD in 1998. During his tenure, he rose through the ranks and led multiple divisions.
City Manager Tamara Vides said Shab brings extensive law enforcement experience and a leadership style focused on integrity, fairness and transparency.
“Chief Shab takes great pride in having built a reputation for integrity, fairness, transparency, and earned trust by putting people first,” Vides said in a statement.
Shab has received several commendations during his career, including the Medal of Valor, Hazardous Duty Award, Outstanding Police Duty Award and multiple Special Merit Awards.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management from Union University and a master’s degree in law enforcement and public safety leadership from the University of San Diego. He is also a graduate of California POST Command College and the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police.
In a statement, Shab said he is honored to be selected and noted his ties to the region.
“As a Santa Cruz County resident, Watsonville holds a special place in my heart,” he said. “It is a beautifully diverse, hard-working, and family-oriented community.”
