08/28/2026
Today marks the final day of work for Lieutenant Brett Short!
In 1998, Lieutenant Short graduated from what was then the Modesto Junior College West Campus police academy, which transitioned to the Ray Simon Training Center.
Lieutenant Short began his law enforcement career as a Custodial Deputy with the Shasta County Sheriffs Department in 2000. In 2001, he was hired by the Newman Police Department as a full time Police Officer. Over the years, he has earned several promotions to include Sergeant in 2008, and Lieutenant in 2010 - a role he held for more than half of his career. Following the retirement of Chief Richardson in May of 2026, Lieutenant Short was named as the Acting Chief of Police.
During his tenure, Lieutenant Short served as a Detective, a Field Training Officer, Range Master, and a Less Lethal Instructor. He was named the Newman Police Department Officer of the Year in 2006, and was recognized for his exceptional efforts in impaired driving enforcement in 2002, receiving the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Award.
Lieutenant Short holds a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University, and a Masters Degree in Education from Trident University.
Lieutenant Short, thank you for your years of service and dedication to the City of Newman! We hope you enjoy retirement to its fullest!
