After more than two decades of service to the City of Newman, Police Chief Randy Richardson will take on a new role this month—leading the Newman Fall Festival Parade as its grand marshal.
The parade, a centerpiece of the annual celebration, will begin at 11 a.m. on Sunday, August 31, and will traverse Main Street, drawing families, floats, and fanfare to the heart of downtown.
Richardson will usher in a lively procession featuring classic cars, the Miss Newman court, and floats from area organizations and businesses—a vibrant showcase of community pride and tradition.
“I was shocked that I was even considered,” Richardson said. “Being named grand marshal is an honor—and especially meaningful as this will be my last Fall Festival as a Police Officer with the City of Newman.”
Richardson began his career with the Newman Police Department in December 1998 as a Reserve Officer. He was hired full-time in May 2000, promoted to sergeant in 2006, and stepped into the acting chief role in 2010 before being appointed permanently later that year.
Festival committee members say Richardson was chosen for his long-standing dedication to the community and his steady leadership over the years.
Festival committee members say Richardson was chosen for his long-standing dedication to the community and his steady leadership over the years. The committee described him as a pillar of public service in Newman, noting that his commitment to safety, integrity, and community engagement made him a natural fit for the honor
That leadership was never more evident than in December 2018, when Newman Police Cpl. Ronil Singh was killed in the line of duty. Richardson faced what he describes as the toughest experience any police chief can endure—guiding his department and the entire community through grief, shock, and national attention.
In the years since, Richardson has remained a steadfast advocate for Singh’s family and a champion of remembrance efforts, ensuring Singh’s legacy continues to be honored both locally and beyond.
Richardson’s career has embodied the Newman Police Department’s motto: “Serve and Protect.” The department’s mission—to safeguard residents’ rights, ensure peace, and uphold professionalism—has been a guiding principle throughout his tenure.
Whether responding to emergencies, mentoring officers, or representing the department during moments of tragedy and triumph, Richardson has consistently upheld the belief that law enforcement is a service rooted in accountability to the people of Newman.
His leadership, colleagues say, reflects the department’s core purpose: protecting the community from harm while fostering trust and peace. As he prepares to retire, Richardson leaves behind not just a legacy of public safety, but a model of service defined by integrity and quiet strength
