Please join us in welcoming Captain Brandon Hensel as the new leader of the Headquarters Patrol Bureau. Captain Hensel proudly oversees policing services provided by the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office to the Town of Portola Valley. 

A San Mateo County native, Captain Hensel was raised in Redwood City and brings more than two decades of dedicated service to this role. Since joining the Sheriff’s Office in 2004, he has built a well-rounded career across Corrections, Patrol, Transit Operations and Court Security, along with years of service in the K-9 Unit as both a handler and trainer. 

Most recently, Captain Hensel served as Bureau Commander for the Transit Police Bureau, where he oversaw public safety along the Caltrain corridor and played a key leadership role as Incident Commander during Super Bowl 60.  

As Captain of the Headquarters Patrol Bureau, he also oversees the Community Engagement Unit, reflecting his strong commitment to community partnerships. 

Captain Hensel looks forward to working closely with Town leadership, local organizations and community members to provide high-quality, professional service to the Portola Valley community and the Sheriff’s Office service area.  

The Town of Portola Valley will formally introduce Captain Hensel during the Town Council Meeting on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 7 p.m.