Capstone Conversations: Navigating the Intersection of Policing, Technology, and Public Sentiment With Walnut Creek Police Chief Jamie Knox
Walnut Creek Police Chief Jamie Knox appeared on the June 18 episode of Capstone Conversations, a weekly podcast hosted by Jared Asch, Capstone Government Affairs, that explores political, government, and community issues in Alameda, Contra Costa, and Solano counties.
Walnut Creek Police Chief Jamie Knox has announced his retirement as Chief of Police for the City of Walnut Creek, effective at the end of 2025. Chief Knox will conclude a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years in law enforcement, including four and a half years at the helm of the Walnut Creek Police Department. Jared Asch, founder of Capstone Government Affairs and host of Capstone Conversations podcast, recently welcomed Chief Knox to the microphone to discuss his own background and journey in law enforcement, and the evolving landscape of public safety in terms of challenges, accomplishments, and advancements.
Listen to the full conversation with Chief Knox here.
In the podcast, Chief Knox elaborates on how technology is revolutionizing law enforcement, from the use of drones for wide-area searches and traffic accident documentation to the integration of artificial intelligence in report writing. He underscores the importance of community-oriented policing and the significant impact of public sentiment on police work. The use of body-worn cameras and the proliferation of smartphones have increased transparency and accountability, although challenges remain in fostering a positive public image. He also discusses workforce challenges, hiring standards, and recruitment strategies in the context of modern-day law enforcement and how societal movements have reshaped the recruitment landscape in policing.
The Walnut Creek Police Department is divided into the Operations Division, which handles patrol and emergency responses, and the Administrative Division, which handles communications, investigations, and administrative support.
Under Chief Knox’s leadership, Walnut Creek has seen historically low crime rates. He launched the department's new Professional Standards and Training Unit, modernized recruit efforts, and introduced drone technology for responses to critical incidents. The updated Walnut Creek Police Department website provides access to public information and engagement, and serves as a digital hub for essential data like crime statistics, daily activity logs, and accident reports.
The conversation with Chief Jamie Knox offers invaluable insights into the complex interplay of public safety, technology, societal expectations, and the future of law enforcement.
Capstone Government Affairs is a full-service government relations and public affairs firm specializing in government procurement, lobbying, economic development incentives, and stakeholder engagement. Capstone Conversations is a weekly podcast produced and hosted by Capstone Managing Partner Jared Asch, featuring interviews with political, government, and community leaders in Alameda, Contra Costa, and Solano counties. Recent episodes feature conversations with Contra Costa Supervisor Candace Andersen, Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer, and Saint Mary’s College of California President Roger Thompson.
