ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — As the current police chief of St. Augustine steps down, a new leader is poised to assume the position.

It was announced by the city manager on Wednesday that Jon Marston will ascend from his role as sergeant to become the new chief of the St. Augustine Police Department.

This transition in leadership follows Police Chief Jennifer Michaux’s announcement that she plans to retire on January 13.

“Throughout the selection process, Sergeant Marston displayed a strong dedication to professional excellence and emphasized the significance of accountability,” stated City Manager David Birchim. “We are confident he will excel in this leadership role and will continue to cultivate a well-trained, community-oriented police force.”

Marston’s law enforcement journey began in 2008, and during his tenure, he has held the position of sergeant in areas such as patrol and investigations, as well as leading the Special Response Team. His extensive leadership and training background includes roles as an operations instructor and field training officer.

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

Chief Michaux was chosen as St. Augustine’s police chief in 2021, and is the first woman to ever serve in the role. Her career with the department began in 1995, and she also previously served in the U.S. Navy.

“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 said after her retirement was announced.

She is credited with improving response times by consolidating dispatch services with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, bolstering security in the downtown area, and creating a sponsorship program to help hire and retain officers.

Marston will officially take over as police chief on Wednesday, Jan. 14.