Rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of the Folsom Police Department and the community on Thursday as they came together to honor Lieutenant Chris Emery, a much respectec and longstanding member of the force, on his retirement. On this rainy afternoon, Emery was still shining bright as he made his ceremonial walk out the front doors of the Folsom Police Department, greeted by a crowd of supporters—current and former colleagues, city leaders, and community member, who braved the wet weather to line the walkway for the traditional “gauntlet” send-off.

For Emery, the moment marked the culmination of 26 years of service with the Folsom Police Department, a career that began in 1998 after a stint with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department. His journey through the ranks of Folsom PD is a testament to dedication and versatility.

Throughout his career, Emery worked in multiple divisions, including Patrol, Traffic, and Criminal Investigations. After being promoted to Sergeant, he returned to patrol before taking on leadership roles in the Traffic Unit and the Professional Standards and Criminal Investigations Divisions.

When he earned the rank of Lieutenant, Emery served as a Watch Commander, oversaw the Communication Center, and eventually led the Neighborhood Services Division, managing the Traffic Unit, Homeless Outreach Team, Problem-Oriented Policing Team, School Resource Officers, and Animal Control.

I a conversation with Folsom Times, Folsom Police Chief Rick Hillman praised Emery’s unwavering commitment to the community and the department. “Lieutenant Emery has exemplified the values of esprit de corps. He’s led by example, demonstrating that it’s not just about the work you do but how you do it—with integrity, courage, and respect,” Hillman said.

Hillman noted Emery’s ability to connect with the people of Folsom, highlighting the lasting impact of his leadership. “Chris’s departure will create a hole in the agency that will be hard to fill. His care for the community and his brothers and sisters in blue never wavered,” he added.

Known for his welcoming smile and approachable demeanor, Emery has been a familiar face around the city and was very often seen working various community events, embodying the department’s mission to serve and protect. Whether he was tackling complex investigations or chatting with residents at the Folsom Pro Rodeo, Emery brought positivity and professionalism to every encounter.

As part of the farewell ceremony, Emery was met at the end of the gauntlet by Chief Hillman and other department leaders for the ceremonial “sign-off.” The tradition, performed over the police radio network, officially announced Emery’s retirement to his colleagues.

In a conversation with Folsom Times ahead of the ceremony, Emery reflected on his career and the community he has served. “When I started with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, I always knew I wanted to work for a municipality,” Emery said. “There’s something unique about the connections you form when you’re part of a city like Folsom. Even with the growth, it’s always maintained that small-town feel.”

Lt. Chris Emery has been with the Folsom Police Department for 26 years after a short time with the Sacramento County Sheriffs Department. Folsom Times photos/video by Bill Sullivan.

Emery spoke fondly of his time in the historic district, which he called “the heart of the community.” Over the years, he helped coordinate many special events there and formed strong relationships with local businesses. “I think I’ve spent so much time down there, the shopkeepers probably think I’m part of their staff,” he joked. “It’s a place where you see the spirit of Folsom come alive.”

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Emery shared that it felt like the right time. “I’ve always heard people say that one day you just wake up and know it’s time, and that’s what happened,” he said. “I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible people and have had so many opportunities here. It’s been an amazing journey, but now I’m looking forward to spending more time with my wife and our two boys.”

Emery’s humor and humility shone through as he recalled how he ended up in law enforcement. Originally aspiring to be an architect or engineer, Emery’s career path shifted after working with the city of Concord’s traffic engineering division and participating in a police ride-along. “The officers I worked with were so professional and personable—it just clicked for me,” he said. “I realized this was something I could do to make a difference.”

As the department prepared to celebrate Emery’s career and dedication Thursday, Chief Hillman shared a few more heartfelt words about the colleague he has grown to be great friends with through the years: “I thank him for his dedicated service and wish him, his wife Tulen, and their sons Cooper and Parker all the best as they begin this exciting new chapter.”

While Thursday’s ceremony marked the end of Emery’s official career, it was also a celebration of the relationships, memories, and achievements that will continue to shape the Folsom Police Department and the community for years to come.

For Emery, the time he spent at the Folsom Police Department hasn’t about so much about titles or accolades. “It’s about the people—the relationships you build with your team, the community, everyone,” he said. “That’s what I’ll carry with me, and that’s what makes this job so rewarding.”

But Emery’s departure isn’t a complete goodbye. He plans to stay connected to the department through a program that allows retired officers to serve in a part-time capacity. Whether it’s filling in during vacations or lending a hand at large community events, Emery will continue to be a familiar presence in Folsom. He also plans to stay active in law enforcement by facilitating a leadership course for the California Peace Officer Standards and Training program. “I still want to contribute in any way I can,” Emery said. “This profession has given me so much, and I want to give back.”

Lt. Emery performs the ceremonial sign off over the Folsom Police radio outside of the station Thursday afternoon.
Folsom Times photos by Bill Sullivan.
Lt. Chris Emery make his final walk out the doors of the Folsom Police Department were colleagues and the community lined up for the ceremonial send off.

Prior to his official sign off, Lt. Chris Emery embraced Folsom Police Chief Rick Hillman, the two have formed a strong friendship through their years at the department.