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Erin Schaible Named New City of Fairfax Chief of Police

Fairfax County PD veteran is the first woman to hold the role for the city
When it comes to public safety and innovation, the City of Fairfax has always taken a leadership role. And that continues with the appointment of Erin Schaible as the city's new chief of police. “We're thrilled to have Erin take over this role,” said City Manager Rob Stalzer. “She continues a tradition of exceptional leadership in our department that, first and foremost, is focused on public safety in our neighborhoods and schools, on our roadways and anywhere our citizens might be in harm's way. She's going to be an incredible asset to our community.”

Schaible begins her tenure February 19.

Schaible, who was most recently the deputy chief of patrol for the Fairfax County Police Department, comes to Fairfax City with 28 years of law-enforcement experience in Northern Virginia and a reputation for developing extensive rapport and relationships in the communities where she's worked. Schaible has also served as a Fairfax County Police major for the resource management bureau and a captain for organized crime and narcotics, among many other roles.

Schaible earned a master's degree in public administration from George Mason University. She is also a graduate of the 41st Session of the VACP's Professional Executive Leadership School (PELS), of the FBI National Academy, of the Police Executive Research Forum's Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), and of the IACP's Leadership in Police Organizations (LPO)

Stalzer said the city's selection team — which culled candidates from a nationwide search — was particularly impressed with Schaible's background in managing complex investigations, workplace security, conflict resolution, crisis intervention and prevention, team-building and project management.

“Because she's had so many important positions with the county police, she's exceptionally qualified to see the big picture of a department and the community,” said City of Fairfax Mayor David Meyer. “She'll continue to help us with cutting-edge solutions to keep our community safe, while also ensuring we attract and keep the best people on our force.”

Meyer also shared how grateful the city is to those who most recently served as chief of police. Carl Pardiny, who was with the city for 30 years (four as chief), retired as chief in December. Kenneth Caldwell, another veteran of the department, has been serving as acting chief for the past two months. “It's a tough and complex job with serious issues cropping up daily, and these two gentlemen served with class and professionalism — the city and its residents will be forever thankful.”

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