Badges and sidearms crowded into the council chambers at Truckee Town Hall on November 7. Officers from various arms of law enforcement were present to witness the changing of the guard, as the new Truckee Police chief was sworn in.
‘I haven’t seen this many people in the town council chambers since we were discussing bike trails,’ said Truckee Vice Mayor Mark Brown.
Nicholas Sensley sat in the front row with his family as goodbyes were said and introductions were made.
‘I thought this was gonna be easy, but it’s not,’ retiring Chief Scott Berry told the gallery. ‘Nick, this is Truckee.’
Berry encouraged Sensley to ‘take us to the next level.’ The new chief will be the town’s third chief of police since the town’s incorporation in 1993.
Sensley started his career in southern California, before moving to Santa Rosa in 1988. Before coming to Truckee, Sensley worked for the Santa Rosa Police Department as Field Services Division Lieutenant.
Born in New Orleans, Sensley joined the army at 18. He is married, with two children. His family owns a second home in Portola and, according to a press release from the Truckee Police Department, has enjoyed the recreational opportunities found in the Sierra.
The new chief is recognized as an expert in combating human trafficking. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in organizational management and a Masters in business administration.
Town Manager Tony Lashbrook said Sensley was picked from a ‘deep pool’ of applicants. More than 70 applicants had thrown their hats in the ring.
After being sworn in, Sensley told those gathered in the chambers that he appreciated the warm reception. Deflecting a running punch line throughout the ceremony, he said the jump in elevation and sometimes inclement weather of his new town didn’t bother him.
‘Truly, if this is the Truckee way,’ Sensley told the welcoming crowd, ‘I’ve landed in the right place.’
