City of Fort Bragg, Ca. - Meet the Staff


Chief of Police

Mark Puthuff

Chief Mark Puthuff began with the Fort Bragg Police Department in October of 2006. His law enforcement career began in 1988, and he has since worked a variety of assignments, including experience working for both police departments and sheriff departments in Northern California prior to serving as the Chief of Police for the City of Fort Bragg.

Chief Puthuff has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Management and a Master of Arts Degree in Public Sector Leadership from Saint Mary's College in Moraga, California and has an extensive background in teaching and specialized training. He has been a college instructor since 1990 and teaches at several different colleges. He is a graduate of the Los Angeles Police Department West Point Leadership Program and the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

Lieutenant

Michael Richards

Lieutenant Michael Richards began his law enforcement career in 1981 and has worked the last 26 years for a Sheriff's Department in Northern California. He has worked a variety of assignments including extensive narcotics unit expertise, detectives, juvenile services, and patrol watch commander. He has received numerous awards for his achievements, including the Medal of Valor. Lieutenant Richards has a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice Management from the Union Institute & University, Sacramento, CA. He has also served as a law enforcement academy instructor and Recruit Training Officer for the Regional Training Center. Richards is a graduate of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and is also a veteran of the United States Army, where he was assigned to the Military Police. He can be contacted at (707) 961-2800, ext. 107.

Administrative Secretary to the Chief of Police

Kira Magness

Administrative Secretary Kira Magness handles all administrative aspects related to the Office of the Chief of Police. She can be contacted at (707) 961-2800, ext. 104.