The City of La Palma announced this week that Police Chief Joe Guerrero will retire this month, making him the 3rd Police Chief to serve and retire after approximately one year on the job since 2023.
In a statement, Guerrero, “who has served the community with distinction and integrity for the past 29 years will retire on Oct. 25, 2025, According to the city, Guerrero’s retirement marks “the end of a remarkable career dedicated to public safety, community partnership and professional excellence.”
In a prepared statement, the city said 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.
“Guerrero has earned the respect of colleagues, community leaders and residents alike for his unwavering dedication and exemplary service,” the city said.
Mayor Mark Waldman said “Chief Guerrero has been a pillar of our City and a true public servant. His contributions to our community and his legacy of service will have a lasting impact for years to come,” the mayor said.
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.”
Guerrero replaced Chief Ron Wilkerson, who retired in Sept. 2024 while Wilkerson replaced Police Chief Terry Kim, who retired in August of 2023.
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.
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.