This month, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on our Police Chief—a leader whose life is deeply rooted in community, service, and a strong sense of family.

Raised in the close-knit town of Holbrook, Chief Christensen is a proud graduate of Holbrook High School, Class of ’88. For the past 26 years, he’s been joyfully married to his incredible wife, and together they’ve raised four intelligent, kind, and accomplished children—including a set of twins. A lifelong Arizona State University (ASU) fan, his Sun Devil pride has only grown now that both twins are ASU alumni: his daughter earned a degree in nursing, and his son graduated with a degree in accounting. Their middle son is currently pursuing a degree in engineering, while their youngest is serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mexico.

When asked what motivates him most, Chief Christensen’s answer is simple and heartfelt: his family.

“Being able to provide for my family and be a good husband and father—that’s what keeps me going.”

Outside of law enforcement, he’s a man of many talents and passions. Fluent in Spanish and an avid woodworker, he enjoys creating with his hands and relaxing to his favorite era of music—the ‘80s.

“I still listen to the music I grew up with,” he laughs. “It never gets old.”

Christmas holds a particularly special place in his heart.

“I’ve always loved seeing the joy in my kids’ eyes on Christmas morning. It’s a time to be with family and celebrate the life of Jesus Christ.”

Chief Christensen’s law enforcement journey began in 1994 when he joined the Holbrook Police Department.

“To be honest, I was initially interested in law enforcement because I thought it was cool to wear a uniform and badge,” he shares with a smile. “But over time, it became much more than that. Now, I do it because I love getting to know people and being able to help when they need it most.”

Over the course of his 30+ year career, he has served in nearly every capacity—from Officer, Field Training Officer, and School Resource Officer to Deputy, Detective, Detective Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, Patrol Commander, and now, Chief of Police. A strong believer in continual growth, he has pursued further professional development through Northland Pioneer College and Arizona State University, where he earned his Certified Public Manager certificate through the Bob Ramsey Executive Education program.

His outstanding service has not gone unnoticed. He has received various commendations, and awards including being the first recipient of the prestigious Varner Distinguished Law Enforcement Officer Award at the 2012 Navajo County Victim’s Symposium.

Beyond his department, Chief Christensen continues to lead and serve. He sits on the Navajo County Fatality Review Board and is an active member of both the Northern Arizona Police Association (NAPA) and the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police (AACOP).

Through it all, his leadership is defined not only by experience and dedication, but by a deep sense of compassion.

“If I could make one rule for the world,” he says, “it would be this: Always be kind. You never know the battles someone else is fighting.”

Chief Christensen is a man of integrity—honest, direct, and deeply committed to accountability. As a police chief, father, craftsman, music lover, and man of quiet strength, he reminds us that behind every badge is a human being guided by purpose, grounded in values, and committed to making a difference.

Thank you, Chief Christensen, for your leadership, your service, and the heart you bring to our community. We’re honored to have you at the helm.

To gain a more personal perspective on Chief Christensen, we asked him a few lighthearted questions. His responses provide meaningful insight into the person beyond the title, highlighting his character, values, and personality.

1. What’s one lesson you’ve learned on the job that you wish more people knew?

This job isn’t just about numbers or statistics—it’s about creating real, positive changes in the community and in the lives of the people we interact with.

2. If you could spend a day doing any other job—just for fun—what would it be and why?

I’d love to spend a day building a woodworking project from scratch. There’s a unique sense of satisfaction crafting something tangible with your own hands and seeing it come to life.

3. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received—either in life or in your career?

The best advice I’ve received is to mentally “hang up” your duty belt at the end of the day—figuratively placing it on a tree limb—and leave the job behind until the next shift. In other words, make a life outside of law enforcement, don’t let the job consume your personal life—make sure you’re living beyond the badge.

4. Is there a call or moment in your career that you’ll never forget?

Yes—I’ll never forget performing CPR on a three-year-old who was ejected from a car and then struck by another vehicle. Sadly, he didn’t make it—that scene, the sites, the smells, all the emotions tied to it, have never left me.

5. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I’m quite introverted. I value quiet moments and tend to recharge in solitude.

6. If a movie were made about your life, who would you want to play you?

Honestly, I’d choose one of my sons. I can’t think of anyone better to represent who I am.

7. What’s still on your bucket list?

I’d love to travel through Europe and explore its medieval countries and castles—there’s so much history I’d like to experience firsthand. I also hope to return to Santiago, Chile, where I served my mission, and reconnect with a place that holds deep personal meaning for me.

8. What does a perfect day off look like for you?

A perfect day off starts with a good workout at the gym, followed by a hearty breakfast. After that, I’d enjoy having the freedom to spend the day however I please—without any schedules or deadlines.

9. If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring three things, what would they be?

I’d bring a water filtration device to stay alive, a machete—for shelter-building, food prep, and protection, and waterproof matches to make sure I can cook, stay warm, and signal for help. Survival—much like life—isn’t just about the tools you have, but how you use them with purpose and resilience.

10. If you could live as an animal for a day, which would you choose?

I’d choose to be a bald eagle—symbolizing strength and freedom, gaining a higher perspective on the world below, and experiencing the clarity that comes from seeing life from above.

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