Assistant Chief of Police Rudy Perez, an immigrant from Guatemala, has dedicated over two decades to a distinguished career in law enforcement, most notably within the Los Angeles School Police Department (LASPD). His journey with Los Angeles encompassed a broad spectrum of roles, underscoring his versatile expertise in the field. From patrolling communities to leading high-profile units such as the gang detail and the Threat Assessment Unit/Mental Health team as a detective, his contributions have been integral to safeguarding over half a million students and tens of thousands of employees across more than 1,500 locations in Los Angeles County.
Ascending to the role of Lieutenant, Perez not only served as the Adjutant to the Chief of Police but also commanded operations across two pivotal divisions, ensuring the safety of schools and communities in east and south-central Los Angeles County. His leadership extended beyond tactical duties, playing a crucial role in interagency collaborations and fostering a culture of safety and prevention within the educational ecosystem.
In 2023, Perez’s career took a significant turn as he was appointed Assistant Chief of Police at the Golden Valley Police Department in Minnesota, marking a new chapter in his commitment to public safety in a suburb of Minneapolis. Beyond his operational achievements, Perez has also excelled as a leader in national school safety efforts. His tenure as president of the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) since July 2022, following his role as Vice President, showcases his dedication to advancing school safety on a national and international scale. His advocacy and drive for excellence in training law enforcement officers have made him a respected figure in the community and a sought-after speaker across various platforms.
With an educational background that includes a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Management and graduation from the FBI National Academy session 280, Perez’s commitment to ongoing professional development is evident. He has completed numerous specialized training courses, covering areas ranging from combat tactics and social network investigations to mental health and gang investigations. His expertise has not only been recognized on national boards, including NASRO and the Minnesota Justice Research Center, but also on international stages, where he has shared insights on leadership and organizational development. He has lectured at the World Police Summit in Dubai, Pepperdine University and Loyola Marymount School of Law and most recently became an instructor at Safe Communities Institute through the University of Southern California.
Perez’s influence extends into policy and advocacy, having testified at the White House as an expert on community and school safety and co-founding The Friends of Safe Schools U.S.A (Community engagement program). His leadership roles within several law enforcement organizations, including the California Coalition of Law Enforcement Association (CCLEA) and the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC), further illustrate his deep commitment to the welfare and professional development of law enforcement personnel.
As an experienced labor relations instructor and former leader of the Los Angeles School Police Officers Association Union, Perez has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of labor and union activities within the law enforcement community. His personal stories and extensive network of federal and local law enforcement connections enrich his perspectives, making him a valuable asset in discussions on public safety, both nationally and internationally.
Assistant Chief of Police Rudy Perez stands out as a passionate advocate for police work, whose comprehensive experience and dedication have significantly contributed to the evolution of law enforcement practices and community safety around the world.
