Stephen Tilton

Chief Deputy Stephen Tilton joined the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office in December 1996 after serving in the U.S. Navy. Captain Tilton joined the Sheriff’s Office because he wanted to work in a career where he would make a difference in the lives of others.

The Sheriff’s Office promoted Tilton to Senior Deputy in 1999 and Sergeant in 2001. In 2005, he was promoted to Lieutenant, and then to Captain in 2017. Captain Tilton worked in County Jails #2 and 4, and the now-shuttered County Jails #3 and #6. He also commanded the Courts Services Unit and the Sheriff’s Patrol Unit. He promoted this year to Chief Deputy as head of the Planning and Projects Division.

He has received various Sheriff’s commendations during his career.  As a member of the Navy, he deployed to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield. Chief Tilton also assisted in starting “Coffee with a Deputy” events and helps lead the Sheriff’s Office anticipation in San Francisco’s annual Pride parade.