Craig Valenzuela, a UCLA graduate and longtime member of the Los Angeles Police Department, has been named the new chief of police at the University of California, Los Angeles. His appointment was announced by Associate Vice Chancellor for Campus and Community Safety Steve Lurie. Valenzuela will assume his duties on September 1.
Chancellor Julio Frenk commented on the appointment: “I am pleased to welcome Chief Valenzuela back to UCLA to serve in this critical role. The safety of our UCLA community is a top priority, and Chief Valenzuela’s accomplishments during over two decades of law enforcement leadership make him an ideal leader for UCLA’s police department. As our new Office of Campus and Community Safety continues to grow and as UCLA prepares to host the world’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes in 2028, I know Chief Valenzuela will elevate safety in a way that is inclusive and grounded in the tenets of 21st-century policing.”
Valenzuela began his career with the LAPD in 1996 after earning a bachelor’s degree in political science from UCLA. He later served in various leadership positions within the department, including as commanding officer for both the North Hollywood Patrol Division and the Metropolitan Division. He also mentored other commanding officers across several regions such as San Fernando Valley and South Los Angeles.
His professional training includes graduation from the FBI National Academy, participation in the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute managed by California’s Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, and completion of LAPD’s Command Development Program. Additionally, he holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California.
Steve Lurie said: “I am thrilled to welcome Chief Valenzuela back to UCLA. He participated in a nationwide search, competing among exemplary leaders from across the country. Chancellor Frenk has stated that UCLA’s safety and security is his ‘meta-priority.’ As the administrator charged with carrying out that mission, I am humbled, honored and grateful to have Chief Valenzuela join our team.”
Valenzuela was chosen by a selection committee composed of faculty members, administrators, students, staff from UCLA, and experienced law enforcement professionals. He succeeds Interim Chief Scott Scheffler, who has led the department since December 2024.
Valenzuela expressed enthusiasm about returning to campus: “The opportunity to come home to UCLA, to work at this police department with these dedicated professionals, is the thrill of a lifetime,” he said. “I cannot wait to partner with our students, faculty and staff in keeping UCLA safe.”
