Chief Todd Rogers is the first Chief of the newly established Río Hondo College Police & Campus Safety Department, bringing with him a wealth of experience in law enforcement, public service, and community leadership. Chief Rogers has dedicated over three decades to public safety, including 32 years with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, where he served in various high-ranking positions such as Assistant Sheriff and Commander of Field Operations. His career highlights include overseeing a $3.3 billion budget, implementing innovative community policing strategies, and managing personnel and training for over 18,000 employees.
Chief Rogers is widely recognized for his ability to lead complex organizations, build strong partnerships, and inspire teamwork through open and transparent communication. He served as the founding director of the Regional Community Policing Institute in Los Angeles, where he developed training programs that continue to shape community policing models across the state. He has also been a key contributor to California POST curriculum and has received numerous accolades for his contributions to law enforcement, including the Distinguished Service Award and the Exemplary Service Award from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Chief Rogers is an accomplished public servant. He has been an elected member of the Lakewood City Council since 2001 and is currently serving his sixth term as mayor. His leadership was pivotal during challenging times, including the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest, where he provided steady guidance and reassurance to his community.
Chief Rogers holds a Master’s degree in Sociology and a Bachelor’s degree in History, both from California State University, Dominguez Hills. His extensive experience in public safety and community service, coupled with his dedication to integrity, equity, and inclusivity, make him the ideal leader to build and lead the Río Hondo College Police & Campus Safety Department. Under his guidance, the department is committed to a community policing model rooted in respect, collaboration, and a guardianship mentality to ensure the safety and well-being of the entire Río Hondo community.