The City of La Palma announces the upcoming retirement of Police Chief Joe Guerrero, who has served the community with distinction and integrity for the past 29 years. Chief Guerrero will retire on October 25, 2025, marking the end of a remarkable career dedicated to public safety, community partnership and professional excellence.
Chief Guerrero joined the La Palma Police Department in 1996, rising through the ranks to become Chief in 2024. Throughout his tenure, he has been a steadfast leader, previously serving the department in pivotal roles, such as Captain of the Operations Division, Detective Bureau Supervisor and Patrol Watch Commander. He has earned the respect of colleagues, community leaders and residents alike for his unwavering dedication and exemplary service.
“Chief Guerrero has been a pillar of our City and a true public servant,” said Mayor Mark Waldman. “His contributions to our community and his legacy of service will have a lasting impact for years to come.”
Reflecting on his retirement, Chief Guerrero said, “I am incredibly proud and humbled to have had the opportunity to serve this remarkable community. It has been an honor to work alongside so many dedicated individuals whose commitment to excellence continues to define the spirit of La Palma.”
To honor his exceptional career and commitment to La Palma, the City Council will formally recognize Chief Guerrero at its meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers at the La Palma Civic Center located at 7822 Walker St., La Palma, CA 90623.
The City extends its heartfelt gratitude to Chief Guerrero for his nearly three decades of public service and wishes him the best in his retirement.
About the City of La Palma
Ranked by Money Magazine in 2007, 2011, 2013, and 2015 as one of America’s Best Places to Live, the City of
La Palma is a 1.9 square mile general law city in northwest Orange County, consisting of 15,568 residents and approximately 350 commercial and industrial businesses. The City was incorporated in 1955 under the name of Dairyland and has 53 full-time and 35 part-time employees.