The City of St. Helena has announced the appointment of Justin Tharp as its new Chief of Police.
Tharp has been serving as the interim chief following the retirement of Chris Hartley in mid-April, according to a report from the City of St. Helena.
The St. Helena City Council was scheduled to officially ratify the appointment during its meeting on Tuesday, October 13.
A twenty-two year career in local law enforcement
Tharp is not a new face to the local community or the department he is set to lead. He began his career as a police officer with the St. Helena Police Department in October 2002.
Over the last two decades, he has moved through the department’s hierarchy, most recently serving as a Lieutenant since 2020 before stepping into the interim leadership role this year.
His professional background includes specialized training at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where he graduated in 2023. That 10-week program focuses on organizational strategy and executive leadership for law enforcement officials.
Academic credentials also form a major part of his profile. Tharp earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Liberty University in October 2025 and holds an Associate of Arts in Political Science and Government from Napa Valley College.
“Justin has proven time and again that he possesses both the character and the vision required to lead our police department,” said Mayor Dohring.
Mayor Dohring noted that Tharp’s steady guidance during his interim tenure made the decision for the Council and the Mayor clear.
The stakes of local leadership
Tharp has expressed a personal connection to the responsibility of the office.
“My focus is on strengthening our department’s connection with the community, supporting our officers, and ensuring that St. Helena remains a safe, welcoming place for everyone who lives, works, and visits here,” Tharp said.
Interim City Manager Jim McCann added that Tharp's quick transition into the interim role demonstrated his readiness for permanent command.
The appointment was expected to be finalized following the council vote on October 13.
