Captain Stephanie Nichols began her career with the Tustin Police Department in August of 1999 as a police recruit. Captain Nichols attended and graduated from the Golden West Police Academy, Class 118.
CAREER
During her career as a Tustin Police Officer, Captain Nichols has worked a variety of assignments including, patrol officer, field training officer, and personnel officer.
SERGEANT
Captain Nichols was promoted to Sergeant in 2009 and spent four years as a Patrol Sergeant where she oversaw the department's Explorer program. She was also a coordinator for the First Aid and CPR staff. In 2014, Captain Nichols was selected as the General Investigations supervisor.
LIEUTENANT
In May 2019, Captain Nichols was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and was assigned as the South Area Commander. In this position, Captain Nichols was responsible for managing all policing activities in Tustin south of the I-5 freeway. In September of 2020, Captain Nichols was assigned as the Professional Standards Division Commander with oversight of the Department's:
- Administrative Investigations
- Personnel and Training
- Legislation
- Uniforms and Equipment
- Cadets, Reserve Officers, Police Recruits
- Information Technology
- Chief's Advisory Board
Additionally, she served as the Department's Press Information Officer.
CAPTAIN
In December 2021, Captain Nichols was promoted to the rank of Captain and was assigned to the Administrative Services Bureau. In February 2023, Captain Nichols was assigned to the Community Policing Bureau.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Captain Nichols has a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from California State University, Fullerton.
PERSONAL LIFE
In her spare time, Captain Nichols enjoys spending time with her family and supporting their many extracurricular activities.