Celebrating 125 Years of Service

In 2018, the Sausalito Police Department marked its 125th anniversary. It is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in Marin County.

The Sausalito Police Department has proudly served the community with professionalism and honor through every era. From combating rum runners and enforcing Prohibition laws in the 1920s, to assisting the FBI in locating dangerous gangsters during the 1930s, the department has stood at the forefront of public safety. In the 1940s, it played a critical role in helping secure shipyards and the waterfront during World War II. The 1960s brought confrontations with radical groups, followed by the "Houseboat Wars" of the 1970s. During the 1980s, the department responded to rising crime rates, and today, it continues to evolve—tackling the growing threat of internet-based crimes in the digital age.

The men and women of the Sausalito Police Department have consistently demonstrated talent and leadership, with many advancing to senior roles both within the department and beyond. Several have served as Chief of Police, one became the Sheriff of Marin County for nearly 20 years, another was the Undersheriff of Marin, and one rose to Special Agent in Charge of the State Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement in San Francisco. An officer even went on to become a Fire Chief in Sonoma County—just a few examples of the remarkable individuals who have worn the Sausalito badge.

In celebration of the department’s history, then Sausalito Police Chief John Rohrbacher authorized members to wear a commemorative badge voluntarily during that specific year. Honorably retired members of the department are also invited to purchase the badge to celebrate their years of service to the City of Sausalito.