Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – John Alden has been selected as Marin County’s first Inspector General, a newly established role that will provide independent oversight of the Marin County Sheriff’s Office in collaboration with the Civilian Oversight Commission.
The role was created following the adoption of Ordinance 3824, establishing the Office of Inspector General and strengthening the County’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and community trust in public safety. The Inspector General is responsible for managing the community complaint process, conducting independent analysis of Sheriff’s Office policies and practices, overseeing investigations, and supporting the Civilian Oversight Commission.
Alden brings more than 25 years of legal and public service experience, including over 17 years in law enforcement oversight, and serves on the Board of Directors of the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE). He recently served as Director of the Independent Office of Law Enforcement Review and Outreach (IOLERO) in Sonoma County, where he led oversight of Sheriff’s Office operations, audits, investigations, and conducted independent reviews. Previously, he served as Executive Director of Oakland’s Community Police Review Agency, Managing Assistant District Attorney in San Francisco’s Independent Investigations Bureau, and held multiple roles within San Francisco’s civilian oversight system. Alden began his legal career as a Deputy District Attorney in Marin County and holds a Juris Doctor from UC Berkeley School of Law.
The County conducted a competitive nationwide recruitment to identify a candidate capable of establishing the new office and implementing the responsibilities outlined in the ordinance. Alden emerged as the top candidate following a comprehensive hiring process.
“John has demonstrated a clear commitment to objective oversight, fairness, thoughtful analysis, and meaningful community engagement,” said Marin County Executive Derek Johnson. “His leadership will be essential in building the Office of Inspector General from the ground up and ensuring it serves as a trusted, independent resource for the community and the County.”
As Inspector General, Alden will operate with a high degree of independence while working collaboratively with the Marin County Sheriff’s Office, Civilian Oversight Commission, County leadership, and community members. The role includes issuing public reports, identifying trends in complaints and investigations, and recommending improvements to policies, practices, and training within the Sheriff’s Office.
Alden is expected to begin his new role the week of May 25. Following his appointment, Alden will participate in community meet-and-greet opportunities across all five supervisorial districts to connect with residents and build relationships throughout Marin County. Community members are encouraged to sign up to receive announcements and updates about these events.