South Pasadena Names New Police Chief

SOUTH PASADENA, CA -- Joe Ortiz, a 25-year law enforcement veteran who has been the police chief for the City of Sierra Madre since 2016, has been named the new police chief for the City of South Pasadena, City Manager Stephanie DeWolfe said March 16.

“I am very pleased to welcome Joe Ortiz to South Pasadena,” DeWolfe said in a statement. “His community-based approach to policing, along with extensive experience in similar police departments, make him an excellent fit for our city.”

Ortiz begins his new position on April 1, DeWolfe said. As Chief, he will lead a department of 53 people, including 36 sworn officers and 17 non-sworn staff members.

Ortiz joined the Sierra Madre Police Department in 2010 as a patrol sergeant and rose up through the ranks, becoming captain of operations and support divisions in 2014 and chief in 2016. Prior to Sierra Madre, he served as a detective and corporal in the Glendora Police Department.

He's a veteran of the US Air Force and the Air National Guard.

Ortiz succeeds former South Pasadena Chief Art Miller, who left the City in August. Capt. Brian Solinsky has served as acting chief since that time.

“I’d like to welcome Chief Ortiz to the South Pasadena community,” said South Pasadena Mayor Marina Khubesrian. “His reputation in Sierra Madre is excellent, and I have full confidence that he will bring the same high level of service and dedication to our residents.”

Ortiz holds a Master of Science degree in Emergency Management and Bachelor of Arts in Occupational Studies from Cal State Long Beach, along with multiple certifications and professional affiliations. He is a resident of Claremont, married, with two adult sons, one of whom has followed in his law enforcement footsteps.

“I look forward to engaging with the South Pasadena community, police officers and staff, and the City leadership teams,” Ortiz said. “My predecessors have created a very strong department and I’m excited to be able to build on that success with a collaborative approach.”