CARLSBAD, Calif. — Today the City of Carlsbad announced the retirement of Police Chief Mickey Williams, effective April 15, and named Assistant Police Chief Christie Calderwood to be his successor.
“Chief Williams has led the Carlsbad Police Department into the era of modern law enforcement,” said Carlsbad City Manager Scott Chadwick. “By prioritizing trust, transparency and the responsible use of technology, Chief Williams has created a culture in the department focused on continuous improvement and an exceptional level of service.”
Williams, who has served as chief since 2021, began his career at the City of Carlsbad 29 years ago. As chief, Williams has become known for ushering in greater use of technology, increasing community collaboration and working with regional law enforcement agencies on solutions to today’s law enforcement challenges.
Under Chief Williams’ leadership, the Carlsbad Police Department has aligned with the national framework of 21st Century Policing, developed through a Presidential task force in response to the growing need to change the relationship between law enforcement and the communities it serves.
In 2020, he led Carlsbad’s response to Black Lives Matter demonstrations, working closely with organizers to create a safe and respectful environment. He later worked with law enforcement agencies in the region on a model de-escalation policy, which has since been adopted countywide. Williams also oversaw the city’s engagement with the community on the issues of civilian oversight and homelessness.
Assistant Chief Christie Calderwood joined the City of Carlsbad Police Department 17 years ago and has served as second in command under Chief Williams for the past two years. She has hands on experience in every aspect of law enforcement, including investigations, patrol and administration. In 2016, she was responsible for developing and supervising the department’s newly formed Crime Suppression Team, an innovative approach that pairs data analytics with on the ground intelligence to effectively deploy department resources where they are needed most.
Calderwood also led the way for new officer wellness initiatives for the Police Department, directing and supporting programs focused on the physical and mental health of officers.
According to Calderwood, a longtime Carlsbad resident and graduate of La Costa Canyon High School, becoming chief will provide the ultimate opportunity to give back to the community.
“I am deeply honored to take on this new role, serving as police chief in the community where I grew up and where I first found my calling to serve,” said Calderwood. “I am looking forward to working with the community in this new capacity and leading the outstanding group of professionals that make up the Carlsbad Police Department.”
Calderwood earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in literature and writing from California State University San Marcos, a Master of Science in Administration degree with an emphasis in leadership, as well as several certifications in the law enforcement field. These include graduating from the prestigious Sherman Block Leadership Institute and completing the rigorous 14-month Command College program offered by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.
In 2019, Assistant Chief Calderwood became one of the less than 1% of all law enforcement personnel in the nation to be selected to participate in the FBI National Academy. In 2021, Assistant Chief Calderwood received the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce “40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders” Award. She is currently president of the California Peace Officers’ Association and a past president of the Carlsbad Police Management Association.
Calderwood lives in Carlsbad with her husband, Carlsbad Fire Chief Michael Calderwood, and their two children. She will be sworn in at the April 9 City Council meeting and officially assume her new role at midnight April 15.
The Carlsbad Police Department has 187 employees and an annual budget of $55.6 million.
