Dave Gutierrez has been appointed chief of police for the City of Menifee. Chief Gutierrez has been serving as the acting chief of police since February.
Having served the Menifee Police Department since 2019, Chief Gutierrez was one of the department’s first hires in its establishment. Before he was appointed chief, he held the rank of captain and served both the Investigations and Operations Divisions.
With more than 24 years of law enforcement experience, Chief Gutierrez has led numerous units throughout his career. These assignments include patrol, investigations, traffic, problem-oriented policing, code enforcement, records, animal services, professional standards and training, and crime scene investigation. He has also served as a public information officer.
Throughout his career, Chief Gutierrez has maintained a commitment to community engagement, including service on the board of directors for a local chamber of commerce.
Chief Gutierrez is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, as well as the California Police Chiefs’ Executive Leadership Institute at the Drucker School of Management. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and will be completing his master’s degree in public administration.
“Chief Gutierrez has been a vital member of the Menifee Police Department and was part of the management team that has developed it into one of the premier law enforcement agencies in the region,” City Manager Armando G. Villa said. “We believe that he is the right person to continue leading the department’s positive trajectory.”
Since its launch in 2020, the Menifee Police Department has grown to more than 120 officers and support personnel. For the past three years, the city has been recognized by Safewise as one of the top 20 safest cities in California.
“I am honored and humbled to be appointed as the next chief of police for this amazing city,” Chief Gutierrez said. “I am excited to continue to serve alongside the hardworking and dedicated members of this department, and remain committed to building strong community partnerships and ensuring the highest level of public safety.”
A formal swearing-in ceremony for Chief Gutierrez will be announced in the near future.
