On January 21, 2025, Chief Dean Crispen was sworn in as the 27th Chief of the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD). Chief Crispen is a 34-year Department veteran who began his career with the SFFD in July of 1990 as a Firefighter EMT. Since the beginning of his career, he has worked at several of the busiest fire stations in San Francisco. Over the years, Chief Crispen promoted through the ranks and served as Captain of stations in Chinatown, North Beach, and SoMa. He was promoted to Battalion Chief over ten years ago, with his most recent assignment as Battalion Chief in the Downtown and SoMa districts.

Chief Crispen has dedicated over three decades of his life to the citizens and visitors of San Francisco, often displaying exemplary leadership and bravery. He was recognized three times for bravery for rescuing victims trapped inside fully involved, burning structures and received commendation for his efforts in rescuing a man having a heart attack while he was off duty. In addition, Chief Crispen has responded to over fifty major incidents in San Francisco as an Incident Commander and participated in relief efforts in New York City after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Chief Crispen is highly trained and certified in Hazardous Materials (HazMat), Heavy Rescue, Confined Space Rescue, Scuba and Surf Rescue, Fire Investigation and Prevention, and Wildland Firefighting.

Chief Crispen is a native San Franciscan, his father is a retired Captain of the SFFD Arson Division, and is the proud father of two boys. He was highly involved with developing the Racial Equity Action Plan. Chief Crispen also supports and actively volunteers with the Local 798 Toy Program every year.