Richmond Police Chief Bisa French announced Thursday she will retire next January, ending a 27-year career with the department marked by historic firsts and a focus on community engagement.
French, who joined the Richmond Police Department in 1998, made history in 2020 when she became the first woman and the first African American woman to lead the agency. She rose through the ranks serving as officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and assistant chief before she was appointed chief.
“Serving the City of Richmond has been the honor of my life,” French said in a statement. “Leading this department and working alongside the men and women of RPD whose commitment and compassion inspire me every day has been the highlight of my career. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and proud of what we have accomplished together.”…