Somerville Police Department

Chief Shumeane Benford

Shumeane Benford is the new Chief of the Somerville Police Department. 

Incoming Chief Benford brings with him over 30 years of law enforcement and emergency management experience, most recently serving as both the Police Chief of the Boston Housing Authority and Boston’s Chief of Emergency Management. Throughout his career, Chief Benford has distinguished himself as a leader committed to driving meaningful change, fostering transparency, and advocating for equity, particularly for marginalized and disenfranchised communities. His proven track record in these areas makes him uniquely qualified to lead our police department in alignment with Somerville’s values.