William Heric

Police Captain

Police Captain William Heric in Uniform With a Flag Behind Him

Captain William Heric currently serves as the Captain of the Professional Services Division (PSD) of the Santa Monica Police Department. In this role, Captain Heric oversees the implementation of advanced department technology, the maintenance of the Public Safety Facility, and the management of the department’s expansive fleet. He provides oversight for the department’s $119 million budget and leads Personnel and Training, which is responsible for the recruitment, hiring, and training processes for all department positions. 

A forward-thinking leader, Captain Heric is spearheading a comprehensive overhaul of the department’s technology and hiring processes. This initiative includes the establishment of the Santa Monica Analytical Real Time (SMART) Center and the modernization of the department’s testing process for new hires, enhancing efficiency and innovation within the organization. 

With over 24 years of law enforcement experience, Captain Heric began his career in 2000 with the San Diego Police Department before joining the Santa Monica Police Department in 2005. During his time as an officer, he served as a Field Training Officer and Detective. Promoted to Sergeant in 2011, he held supervisory roles in patrol operations and the Criminal Investigations Division (CID), overseeing units such as Property Crimes, Crimes Against Persons, and the Youth Services Division. In 2015, he led the development and implementation of the department’s Juvenile Diversion Program (JDP), focusing on innovative approaches to youth justice. 

Promoted to Lieutenant in 2017, Captain Heric managed key operational areas, including Patrol, Patrol XO, Homeless Liaison Patrol (HLP), and CID. In 2021, he was elevated to the rank of Captain and initially led the Criminal Investigations Division before assuming leadership of the Professional Services Division. 

Captain Heric has also served as the department’s liaison to Risk Management for Workers’ Compensation claims for the past 12 years. In addition to his departmental responsibilities, he contributes to the community as a board member of the Santa Monica YMCA. 

Captain Heric holds a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts with a minor in Theater from the University of California, San Diego. His professional development includes graduating from the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute, the Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) Executive Leadership Institute, the POST Management Course, the Yale School of Management Accelerated Management Program, and the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP) in Boston. 

Captain Heric is an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), reflecting his commitment to advancing law enforcement practices and leadership. Captain Heric is dedicated to innovation, leadership, and community engagement with the goal to shape the future of the Santa Monica Police Department and its service to the community.