The End Of An Era: San Andreas State Police Commissioner Hill Steps Down

Commissioner Barry Hill of the San Andreas State Police (SASP) issued a press release Saturday announcing he’s stepping down after nearly 3 years leading the Troopers. Reflecting on his time in the role, Trooper Hill affirmed he “never set out to hold onto the Commissioner role for as long as possible”, but instead remained because he believed his experience and leadership provided positive contributions to the department and the general law enforcement community.

Governor Karmen McKenzie nominated Trooper Hill via Executive Nomination 028 on July 31, 2022. He was unanimously confirmed by the 4th Congress the following day and was sworn in on August 3, 2022. In case you’ve never seen it, here’s the video of that swearing in recorded by San Andreas’ very own legendary journalist, Harry Kennedy.

Under Barry Hill’s leadership, the San Andreas State Police underwent a major transformation in 2024, transitioning into a full department. He also played a key role in improving the department’s Internal Affairs process to promote transparency and accountability. Throughout his tenure, Trooper Hill took immense pride in watching his Supervisor and Command team members grow into some of law enforcement’s strongest leaders.

With his departure, Trooper Hill confirmed that Craig Maxwell will be stepping into the role of Commissioner. In the press release, he voiced confidence in his successor’s ability to continue guiding the department forward. Barry closed by thanking his command team, fellow Troopers, and the public for their trust and engagement during his time in office. Governor Jeremy Barbant has already issued Executive Nomination 106 to put forth Trooper Maxwell for the position.

What does the future hold for the former commissioner? Looking ahead, Barry Hill plans to remain with the San Andreas State Police, having stepped down to the rank of Senior Trooper. In an email to Weazel News he stated:

The text of the press release is copied below, along with a PDF attached as well for ease of reading:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 7th, 2025

Over four years ago, I began my journey with the San Andreas State Police as a Trooper. Back then, my only mission was to complete my cadet phase and get my feet dirty in the realm of law enforcement. Fast forward to today, and I find myself reflecting on nearly three years leading the very department I joined. Who would’ve thought?

It’s rare to see a department head hold a position like this for so long. More often than not, leadership change is good. Fresh perspectives can bring growth and I’ve always understood that. The truth is, I never set out to hold onto the Commissioner role for as long as possible. I remained in the position for as long as I truly believed that my opinions, experience and voice bettered not only the department but the entire law enforcement community.

My time in the role has been so long, that for many I am the only Commissioner that they’ve ever known. Being in this position has been both a privilege and a responsibility that I have taken very seriously. I am grateful for the support and trust of the Troopers. I am grateful for the opportunity to witness this department evolve so much over the years.

I am officially retiring from the role of Commissioner of the San Andreas State Police. With this, I am very proud to announce that Craig Maxwell will be stepping into the role of Commissioner and I have full confidence in his ability to carry the torch and evolve this department even further.

There are so many individuals and groups I could name who made this journey as great as it was, but instead, let me simply say this: Thank you to my command team, each of who I had the honor of watching grow into LEO’s best leaders. Thank you to the public for looking at me as someone you could reason with, debate with, and respect. And most importantly, thank you to all of the Troopers who put their trust in me to lead and represent them every single day.

It has been an honor, 
thank you for having me

Barry Hill
Commissioner, San Andreas State Police