Police Chief Kathy Lester Talks Tactics, Trust & Transformation

Topo Padilla, Katherine Lester

In this powerful episode of the Power House Podcast, we sit down with Sacramento Police Chief Kathy Lester—an inspiring leader with over 30 years of service in public safety. From dispatcher to sworn officer to becoming the 46th Chief of Police, Kathy shares her incredible journey through the ranks and what it means to serve and protect a diverse and evolving city.


Chief Lester opens up about the challenges and responsibilities of modern policing, building trust with the community, and the future of public safety in Sacramento. With experience in nearly every corner of the department—from Patrol to Outreach to Operations—she brings a rare, well-rounded perspective on leadership, reform, and resilience.


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