Mike Greene to take the helm as top cop
Benicia City Manager Erik Upson today appointed Benicia Police Department Captain Mike Greene as Chief of Police.
Chief Greene has been with the department for nearly 30 years, starting as a cadet, with experience working in all facets of the department including dispatch, patrol, investigation, training, hiring and administration.
Greene replaces Erik Upson, who joined the department as Chief of Police in 2015 and was appointed as Interim City Manager in September 2020. The Benicia City Council unanimously made the appointment permanent in January 2021. Greene served as Interim Chief of Police in Upson’s absence.
City Manager Upson said, “I am confident that Mike will continue to lead the police department with integrity, accountability, and compassion. He will ensure the culture and vision of the department continues to move forward.”
Greene has been part of the police department command team for the last 11 years and was promoted to captain in 2017. As a captain, he oversaw the day-to-day operation of the department and was instrumental in furthering the department’s vision and mission.
Greene holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, completed the Senior Management Institute of Policing program at Boston University, and graduated from the FBI National Academy. He is also a proud Benicia Panther alumnus and is the son of former owners of a Benicia daycare center.
“I am humbled and honored to lead this department and continue to serve my community and peers in this capacity,” Greene said. “Benicia is and will always remain a special place to me, and I am excited for this opportunity to make it an even better and safer city by continuing our strong relationship with the community. I’m excited to continue working with Erik Upson and very proud of the department we have.”
In the coming months, Chief Greene will hold virtual meet and greets with members of the community to introduce himself. Details will be announced.