Former Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) Captain, Saul Rodriguez, has been hired by the City of El Segundo as their new Chief of Police. With the exception of two and half years spent as a transit police officer for the LA County at the very beginning of his career, the majority of Rodriguez’s impressive 30 years of law enforcement experience comes from time spent at the SMPD.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be appointed as the Chief of Police for the El Segundo Police Department,” said Rodriguez. “I am committed to working collaboratively with our officers, community members, and city leaders to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and accountability.
“As a resident of the South Bay, my family and I are looking forward to serving this wonderful community. Together, we will ensure public safety, build trust, and enhance the quality of life for everyone in El Segundo,” he said.
Rodriguez joined the SMPD as a police officer in 1997 and over the course of his impressive career, he has worked in narcotics, patrol, criminal investigations, public information, recruitment, executive oversight and various special operations including traffic enforcement, SWAT, mounted and youth and homeless services. He was consistently promoted through the ranks (six in total) to reach captain.
“On behalf of the entire department, I want to extend heartfelt congratulations to Captain Rodriguez on his appointment as the new Chief of the El Segundo Police Department.” SMPD Chief of Police Ramon Batista told the Daily Press.
“His leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the Santa Monica Police Department and the City of Santa Monica have been exemplary. While we will miss his presence here, we know that he will continue to excel in his new role, and we wish him all the best in this exciting new chapter of his career,” Batista said.
Rodriguez holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Management and a Master of Public Administration with a focus in Public Sector Management and Organizational Leadership from California State University, Northridge. He succeeds Chief Jaime Bermudez, who served the City of El Segundo with distinction and dedication for 32 years, before retiring on April 1, 2024. The official start date for Rodriguez is April 8, 2024.