Effective September 7, 2024, and after 28 years of service, Police Chief Ron Wilkerson will retire from the La Palma Police Department. City Manager Conal McNamara has appointed Captain Joe Guerrero as Chief of Police, effective September 8, 2024.
During Chief Wilkerson’s distinguished 28-year tenure with the La Palma Police Department, he has made significant contributions across various roles. Prior to his appointment as Chief, Ron served many years as Captain, where he oversaw both the department’s administrative and operational functions. He was instrumental in expanding the department’s technology infrastructure, enhancing recruitment strategies, and further strengthening the department’s exceptional service and reputation within the community.
His career has been marked by a series of other pivotal roles, including assignments in the patrol division as a Watch Commander, Sergeant, and several special assignments such as Administrative Sergeant, Corporal, Motor Officer, Field Training Officer, Firearms Instructor, and Rangemaster. Additionally, he dedicated over six years as a Team Leader and Supervisor for the North Orange County SWAT Team. His exemplary service has been recognized with numerous commendations, including the department’s highest honor, the Medal of Valor, and he was named the City of La Palma’s Supervisory Employee of the Year in 2015.
“Chief Wilkerson has consistently exemplified exceptional leadership, a profound understanding of our community’s needs, and a steadfast commitment to building positive relationships with residents,” said Mayor Marshall Goodman. “He will be greatly missed by the City, but I am confident his legacy will endure. On behalf of the City Council, we are deeply grateful for Chief Wilkerson’s dedicated service and wish him the very best in his retirement.”
With Chief Wilkerson’s retirement, City Manager McNamara has appointed Captain Joe Guerrero as the next Chief of Police, effective September 8, 2024. Captain Guerrero joined the department in 1996 and has served in several key roles, most recently as Captain of the Operations Division. Prior to that, he supervised the Detective Bureau and served as a patrol Watch Commander. Chief Guerrero holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from California Coast University and is a graduate of the National Command & Staff College and the Sherman Block Leadership Institute. In 2016, he was honored as the City of La Palma’s Supervisory Employee of the Year.
“I have complete confidence in Captain Guerrero to succeed Chief Wilkerson, continuing the hard work and commitment to excellence that this department has consistently upheld,” said Mr. McNamara. “I look forward to working with Joe as he takes on the leadership of this outstanding department, serving the La Palma community.”
The City will hold an official swearing-in ceremony for Captain Guerrero in September 2024.