Michael P. Kochis

Chief Michael P. Kochis, MA, BA, CPM

Michael P. Kochis has been serving as the Chief of Police for the City of Charlottesville since January 2023. 

He came to Charlottesville following several years of distinguished law enforcement service, including a three-year tenure as Chief of Police for the Warrenton Police Department. Prior to that, he served as a Commander with the Alexandria (VA) Police Department where he retired in January 2020. 

Chief Kochis holds a Master’s degree in Public Safety from the University of Virginia, among the first cohort of that program. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration and holds a Certified Public Manager designation from George Washington University. 

In addition to his academic credentials, Chief Kochis is a graduate of the FBI National Academy for Law Enforcement Executives and the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Policing. 

Over his career, he has developed a leadership philosophy grounded in transparency, community-partnership, and building stability within law enforcement organization. Since taking command of the Charlottesville Police department, he has focused on strengthening ties with residents and community stakeholders, encouraging open dialogue, and developing a long-term strategic plan to guide policing and public safety efforts in Charlottesville.