Veteran sheriff’s captain to succeed Chief Matt Tamayo upon retirement in March 2026
RANCHO CORDOVA — The City of Rancho Cordova has announced the appointment of Shaun Hampton as its next chief of police, selecting a seasoned law enforcement veteran with more than 25 years of experience to lead the Rancho Cordova Police Department beginning in March 2026.
Hampton, currently serving as a captain with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, will assume the role as current Police Chief Matthew Tamayo retires in March 2026. Tamayo will conclude his tenure after two-and-a-half years leading the department.
City officials said Hampton brings a depth of experience that spans nearly every facet of modern law enforcement. His career includes assignments in corrections, patrol, investigations, Special Enforcement Detail operations, SWAT, canine operations, and patrol supervision. He has also served as an academy instructor, worked in community policing roles, and acted as the Sheriff’s Office public information spokesperson.
In addition to his extensive service with the county, Hampton has prior leadership experience within the Rancho Cordova Police Department itself, having served as both a patrol sergeant and patrol lieutenant. City leaders said that previous experience provides him with firsthand familiarity with the department’s operations and the community it serves.
“The City of Rancho Cordova is pleased to welcome Shaun Hampton as our new chief of police,” City Manager Micah Runner said in a statement announcing the appointment. “His previous experience at RCPD, extensive law enforcement background and commitment to the City of Rancho Cordova make him an outstanding choice to serve our community.”
Hampton’s professional philosophy has been shaped by an emphasis on professionalism, accountability, operational excellence and fairness, with a consistent focus on community partnerships. City officials noted that he has been a strong advocate for training and professional development throughout his career. His instructional background includes firearms training, patrol tactics and advanced officer training, along with mentoring fellow law enforcement professionals.
Academically, Hampton holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management from Union Institute and University.
“I am honored to once again be serving the Rancho Cordova community and to continue fostering community relationships and partnerships to keep all residents safe,” Hampton said in a prepared statement.
Along with serving as Rancho Cordova’s chief of police, Hampton will also take on the role of commander of the Sheriff’s Office East Division, operating out of the Kilgore Police Station. City officials said that dual assignment is expected to further strengthen coordination between city policing operations and regional law enforcement services.
The city said it plans to host public opportunities in the near future for residents to meet Hampton and engage with him as he prepares to transition into the chief’s role. Community members can sign up to receive updates through the city’s e-news service at cityofranchocordova.org/enews and follow both the city and the Rancho Cordova Police Department on social media for additional information.
Hampton is scheduled to officially take command in March 2026, marking a leadership transition city officials said will maintain continuity while reinforcing the department’s focus on professionalism, training and community trust.
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