Davis to Install New Police Chief on November 9
The appointment of Matt Davis marks a leadership shift that may impact local enforcement and commercial security protocols.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in People
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The city of Davis has named Matt Davis to serve as the new police chief, effective November 9, 2026. He will succeed former Chief Todd Henry, who vacated the position earlier this year.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a leadership transition within the department that manages local public safety and regulatory enforcement. Businesses in Davis rely on consistent law enforcement operations to manage site security, permitting, and general community safety.
The new chief brings 22 years of service to the role, having joined the Yolo County Sheriff's Office in 2004. This appointment follows the 2026 departure of the previous chief, Todd Henry, who now serves as an assistant sheriff in Placer County.
The players
Matt Davis
Incoming police chief of Davis who previously served as undersheriff-coroner for the Yolo County Sheriff's Office.
Todd Henry
Former Davis police chief currently serving as the assistant sheriff in Placer County.
The details
Matt Davis will step into the role following an extensive career at the Yolo County Sheriff's Office. Operators in the city should monitor how his background in the county system influences department-level enforcement priorities, particularly regarding commercial security and zoning compliance. Local businesses often coordinate with the department for event permitting and public safety response, functions that may see shifts under new leadership.
Timeline
Matt Davis began his career with the Yolo County Sheriff's Office in 2004.
Todd Henry departed the Davis police department in 2026.
Matt Davis begins his term as police chief on November 9, 2026.
Market Landscape
This appointment fills the leadership vacancy created by the 2026 departure of former Chief Todd Henry. The transition signals a return to a permanent command structure following a period of turnover in the department's top role.
Business operators should review their current departmental points of contact for permitting and security matters ahead of the November 9 leadership transition. Expect potential shifts in enforcement focus or inter-agency coordination that may affect operational compliance.
The takeaway
Leadership changes at the department level often signal shifts in how regulations are applied to local storefronts and service providers. Owners should monitor the department's upcoming public statements to identify any new directives regarding commercial security or code enforcement.
What happens next
Matt Davis is scheduled to begin his tenure as police chief on November 9, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership changes, view Davis People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KCRA.
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