David Nisleit officially assumed the office of the City of San Diego’s 35th Chief of Police on March 2, 2018. During his tenure David oversaw the eighth largest police department in the nation.
A native San Diegan, David grew up in the Rolando Community. and was a graduate of the University of Redlands, Master’s Degree in Business Management. In December of 2014, Chief Nisleit graduated from the FBI National Academy, FBINA #258.
David began his career with the San Diego Police Department in February 1988, following his father’s footsteps, retired Captain Randy Nisleit.
David left the department having worked many of the Department's patrol commands and had extensive investigative experience. His prior assignments included Assistant Chief of Patrol Operations, Watch Commanders Office, Headquarters Front Counter, Homeless Outreach Team, Special Operations, Investigations II (Robbery, Gangs, and Homicide), field lieutenant, SWAT, Special Events, Narcotic Team 10, Sex Crimes, and Internal Affairs.
David served as a liaison to the Downtown Redevelopment, Crime Commission, Community Relations Officers, LEAPS, San Diego Police Historical Association, Labor Relations, Gang Commission, San Diego Police Foundation, and the Chief’s Community Advisory Board.
David was a member of the San Diego County Police Chiefs’ and Sheriff’s Association, Major Cities Chief’s Association, Police Executive Research Forum, IACP, STAR/PAL, SANDAG, and the SWAT Association. Hereceived numerous awards and citations throughout his career which has included a Congressional Recognition in 2008.
Davidassisted in the security planning for several large events in San Diego such as the Super Bowl, Comic-Con, Rock n Roll Marathon, Balboa Park December Nights, LGBT Pride, International Association Chiefs of Police Convention, yearly holiday events and other major conferences.
David came from a law enforcement family and has a legacy with the San Diego Police Department. His father Randy, served over 35 years with the Department and retired as a Captain in 1999. His son Ryan is currently a detective.
David Nisleit is also a professor of criminal justice at the University of San Diego and Alliant University.
CHIEF OF POLICE DAVID S. NISLEIT
SDPD 02/01/1988 - 06/08/2024
CHIEF 03/02/2018 - 06/07/2024
