Tanzanika Carter

Sheriff Miyamoto appointed Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) Commander Tanzanika Carter to Assistant Sheriff, the third highest ranking position in the San Francisco Sheriff's Office. Assistant Sheriff Carter assumed her role effective January 11, 2021.

Assistant Sheriff Carter brings extensive leadership and diverse work experience to the Sheriff's Office as a 24-year-law enforcement veteran. She recently served as BART's commander for the Contra Costa area. She has trained and served in multiple assignments including as Field Training Officer, Detective, Hostage Negotiator, Chaplain Coordinator, Watch Commander and Zone Commander.

Assistant Sheriff Carter brings an outsider's perspective to the Sheriff's Office and will help identify gaps in training and skills. She will play a key role as the Sheriff's Office works to strengthen relationships with the community.

Assistant Sheriff Carter is a member of the International Conference of Police Chaplains and the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives. She is also a life member of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and serves as the Vice President for the San Francisco Bay Area chapter. 

Assistant Sheriff Carter earned two Bachelor’s degrees in Ethnic Studies and Criminal Justice from California State University, Hayward, and holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from California Coast University. She is also a graduate of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute, a program that teaches and inspires personal growth, leadership, and ethical decision-making in California law enforcement front-line supervisors.