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San Antonio’s Longest-Serving Police Chief William McManus to Retire by September 2026

The city plans a managed succession with search details forthcoming.

Overview

  • McManus, 74, said he will remain in the role through his final year to support a smooth transition.
  • He has led SAPD since 2006, the longest tenure in the department’s history, after prior leadership posts in Minneapolis and Dayton and earlier service in Washington, D.C.
  • City Manager Erik Walsh praised his leadership and community relationships, while the police union recently declined a no‑confidence vote and the mayor had not publicly backed him.
  • In a recent briefing, McManus reported more than a 13% decline in overall reported crime late in 2025 and average response times of about 5 minutes 29 seconds, with figures subject to final review.
  • Officials said transition specifics will be announced, and the mayor’s office said the city manager will run a nationwide search with community input as Sheriff Javier Salazar publicly dismissed rumors he is in line for the job.