Sgt. Michael Mathis is retiring from the San Rafael Police Department after nearly 30 years on the force.

SRPD announced Mathis's retirement Monday, Sept. 14, in a post on X, tracing a career that spanned motorcycle patrol, training, school outreach and supervision. Mathis joined the department on March 17, 1997.

His path through SRPD touched several units. He started in the Traffic Unit as a motorcycle officer, then was promoted to corporal in 2006. In that role, he mentored new officers as a field training officer.

By 2009, he had become the department's training manager and instructor.

Mathis also served as a school resource officer and was an integral part of SRPD's Camp Chance, building relationships with students and school staff across San Rafael.

He also served on the department's Crime Scene Investigation Team and the Peer Support Team, where the department said he became a trusted source of support for fellow officers.

In 2022, Mathis was promoted to sergeant. Most recently, he supervised the Traffic Unit.

The department described Mathis as someone never afraid to be the life of a gathering, saying his humor, energy and ability to connect with people made him a memorable presence. SRPD credited the officers he trained, the coworkers he supported and the relationships he built as a lasting part of his legacy with the department and the city of San Rafael.

Police Chief Dave Spiller leads the department Mathis served under for nearly three decades.

SRPD closed its tribute with the traditional law enforcement retirement send-off, showing Mathis as 10-7OD. The radio code means out of service, off duty.