News Flash

St. Augustine City Manager David Birchim announced today that Sergeant Jon Marston has been selected to serve as the next Chief of Police for the St. Augustine Police Department (SAPD), upon the retirement of Police Chief Jennifer Michaux, January 13, 2026.

“Throughout the interview process, Sergeant Marston demonstrated his commitment to professional excellence and the importance of accountability,” City Manager David Birchim said.  “We are confident that he will be effective in this leadership position and will continue to develop a well-trained, community-focused police department.”

Sgt. Marston began his law enforcement career in 2008 and brings extensive operational and leadership experience to his role. Throughout his career, he has served as a sergeant in patrol, investigations, and training, and has also led the department’s Special Response Team.

Serving as an instructor in defensive tactics, firearms, and emergency vehicle operations, Sgt. Marston has been actively involved in officer development and training for the department.  He has also worked as a Field Training Officer, mentoring and guiding new officers during the early stages of their careers.

Police Chief Jennifer Michaux stated, “Jon exemplifies the leadership, vision, and commitment to community safety that the department, City, and residents expect.  I am confident he will lead the department with integrity and accountability.”

Sgt. Marston holds a bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security from Vincennes University and is a graduate of the Florida Leadership Academy, Class 47.  He has completed advanced leadership training in government supervision and command decision-making and is currently working toward obtaining his FBI LEEDA Trilogy Award.

Questions and media inquiries may be directed to Dee Brown, Public Information Officer, at 904.466-5275.

St. Augustine Police Chief Jennifer Michaux announced that she will retire from the St. Augustine Police Department (SAPD) on January 13, 2026, closing out a distinguished 30-year career with the department.

Chief Michaux began her service with the SAPD in 1995, proving herself and working her way up the ranks, serving in roles such as Training Sergeant, Internal Affairs Sergeant, and Patrol Sergeant, as well as Patrol Commander and Administration Commander.

Additional areas of experience also include serving as a traffic homicide investigator, motor officer, defensive tactics instructor, and field training officer.  Prior to her selection as Chief, she also spearheaded the department’s accreditation initiative.

Chief Michaux made history as the first female Chief of Police for St. Augustine upon her selection in 2021 under the leadership of then City Manager John Regan.  In the four years she served as Chief, Michaux was responsible for consolidating dispatch services with St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, providing for quicker response times; reassigned personnel to create a downtown bike unit and foot patrol for increased police visibility and security, and hired a nightlife manager to assist with improving quality of life for downtown residents and code enforcement issues.  Internal to the department, Chief Michaux improved recruiting initiatives by developing a sponsorship program to acquire and retain quality officers.

City Manager David Birchim praised the chief for her years of service, saying, “Chief Michaux has served our community for 30 years with dedication and commitment to protecting our residents, business owners and visitors, keeping order in the Historic Downtown district, and maintaining a strong department with dedicated officers and staff.”  Birchim also offered his congratulations, “We wish Chief Michaux the very best in her well-deserved retirement."

Upon announcing her retirement to the department, Chief Michaux shared, “It’s been a true honor to work with all of you during my time with SAPD. I had the privilege of growing both professionally and personally, and I will always be grateful for the 30 years I spent working here.”  Additionally, she remarked, “I do not doubt that SAPD will continue to reach new heights with such an incredible group of people working together.”

Chief Michaux also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in public administration from Flagler College and is a graduate of the Florida Leadership Academy. She received an honorable discharge from the United States Navy, where she attained the rank of Petty Officer with a rate of Loadmaster.

Questions and media inquiries may be directed to St. Augustine Police Department at 904.825.1074.