Riverside police chief announces promotions

Riverside, Ca- Riverside Police Chief Russ Leach today announced promotions to two key leadership posts in the city’s police department.

John De La Rosa, a 27-year member of the Department, is promoted from Deputy Chief to Assistant Chief of Police. Police Captain Pete Esquivel, a 32-year veteran of the Department, is promoted to Deputy Chief of Police.

“The position of Assistant Chief is key to solidifying and completing the Department’s command structure,” said Leach. “I have complete confidence in John’s leadership skills and his ability to ensure consistency in the Department’s public service focus”.

Assistant Chief De La Rosa will serve as the Department’s second in command, and will also directly oversee RPD’s Internal Affairs and Compliance divisions. De La Rosa began his law enforcement career as a member of the Rialto police force in 1978. Since joining the Riverside Police Department in 1980, his experience has spanned all functional areas to include patrol, narcotics, homicide, internal affairs, communications, community services, facilities, finance, personnel/training, records, audit/compliance and the Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics team.

Deputy Chief Esquivel will assume responsibility for the Department’s operational branch, which includes all patrol, investigative and special operations functions. Esquivel’s previous assignments encompassed all functional areas, including patrol, homicide, economic crimes, internal affairs, personnel, training, special investigations and crimes against children. Most recently, Esquivel commanded RPD’s Special Operations Division overseeing police aviation, Metro/SWAT, technical services, K9 unit, youth programs and the city’s traffic division.

“Pete brings vast operational depth to the post of Deputy Chief,” said Leach. “His experienced leadership will be invaluable to RPD’s field staff and commanders.”

“The Chief’s selections for Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief will be vital to RPD’s long-term success in carrying out the Department’s Strategic Plan,” said City Manager Brad Hudson. “We look forward to working with the Chief and his team to fulfill the City Council’s vision for proactive public service and accountability.”

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