Meet SFS Police Chief Paul Espinosa

The City of Santa Fe Springs is proud to announce the appointment of Chief Paul Espinosa as the first-ever Police Chief of the City’s newly established Police Department.
Chief Espinosa began his law enforcement career with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in 1994 and served in a wide range of assignments across eleven Community Police Stations within all four geographic bureaus. Throughout his career, he worked in patrol, vice, narcotics, and investigative assignments before promoting through the ranks of police officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain.
During his tenure with LAPD, Chief Espinosa held several key leadership positions, including Watch Commander, Gang Impact Team Officer In Charge, Detective Division Commanding Officer, and Commanding Officer of Foothill Patrol Division, In-Service Training Division, Juvenile Division, and both West Valley and Southwest Community Police Stations.
Chief Espinosa later served as Chief of Police for the City of Montebello, where he led all departmental operations with a focus on strengthening community trust, enhancing accountability, and advancing modern, community-based policing strategies. His leadership emphasized officer development, constitutional policing, and collaborative partnerships to address evolving public safety needs.
“Appointing our first Police Chief is a historic moment for Santa Fe Springs,” said Mayor Joe Angel Zamora. “Chief Espinosa’s extensive experience, leadership, and commitment to community-focused policing make him the ideal person to lead our new Police Department.”
As Police Chief, Espinosa will oversee the development and implementation of the City’s Police Department and help establish a strong foundation focused on public safety, transparency, and community partnership.
“I am honored to serve the Santa Fe Springs community in this role,” said Chief Espinosa. “I look forward to working alongside City leadership, residents, businesses, and community partners to build a department grounded in professionalism, trust, and service.”


Chief Espinosa is looking forward to meet members of the community at our "Chat with the Chief" series:

June 11 - GVNC Evening Community Meet & Greet
Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center, 9255 Pioneer Blvd. at 6:00 p.m.

• Meet Chief Espinosa at Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center (GVNC) Evening Community Meet & Greet to connect, ask questions, and engage with your local Police Department. Light refreshments, will be provided.

 
June 26 - Summer Concert
Heritage Park, 12100 Mora Dr. at 6:00 p.m.

• Join Chief Espinosa during the Summer Concert and share your feedback through the Community Policing Needs Assessment Survey. Stop by the Police Department booth.

 
July 3 - Independence Day Celebration
Los Nietos Park, 11143 Charlesworth Rd. at 3:30 p.m.

• Celebrate at the City’s Independence Day Event while meeting Chief Espinosa and completing the Community Policing Needs Assessment Survey. Stop by the Police Department booth.

Can't make it to an event?
Complete the Community Policing Survey online!
 
For more information, please call (562) 409-1850.

The establishment of the Santa Fe Springs Police Department marks a new chapter in the City’s commitment to public safety, local accountability, and community partnership. Under Chief Espinosa’s leadership, the City looks forward to building a modern police department rooted in professionalism, transparency, and service to the community