After brief administrative leave, Brian Barner resumes his role as Redding Police Chief
Redding City Council member Mike Littau announced last night that Barner would be returning to work, thanking the public for their patience during the potentially “sensitive” situation.
Last week, Redding Police Chief Brian Barner was placed on administrative leave by Redding’s Interim City Manager — and Personnel Director —Kari Kibler. Kibler gave no explanation before placing Barner on leave and did not share any official communication with the public. The news reached the press via a Facebook update from council member Dr. Paul Dhanuka.
In a similarly opaque announcement, Redding Mayor Mike Littau posted on Facebook yesterday indicating that Barner would be returning to the force. Littau told Shasta Scout that he can’t comment much on personnel matters but said that “the chief has stated any allegations are explainable and he has confidence they will be unfounded.”
The city has still not shared any official communication on the matter, but Kibler told Shasta Scout today that “Chief Barner assumed all duties associated with his position as Police Chief as of 1/5/2026 at 5 PM.” Similarly to Littau, she declined to provide further details on the personnel matter for confidentiality reasons.
In an emailed comment submitted shortly after this story was published, Chief Barner said he was confident that the allegations that have been made against him are “explainable and within policy and/or past practice of the Department.”
“I am glad to be back to work and ready to move forward,” Barner added. “This last week has not positive for our police department or our community. I appreciate all of the RPD staff for working through this difficult time with professionalism.”
The decision to place Barner on administrative leave has led to some public criticism of Kibler, who stepped into the role of Interim City Manager on Dec. 21, replacing another short-term interim, former Assistant City Manager Steve Bade who retired unexpectedly last month.
Kibler will conclude her role as interim when the council’s newly-selected city manager, William Tarbox, takes his role. He’s due to be appointed at tonight’s city council meeting although his official start date has not yet been announced. Littau told Shasta Scout the city is hoping Tarbox’ first day will be Feb. 16.
1.7.2025 9:53 am: We have updated the story with Chief Barner’s comment.
Do you have a correction to share? Email us: editor@shastascout.org.
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