LAPD Commander Craig Valenzuela has been chosen as the next chief of campus police at UCLA, the school announced.
Valenzuela, who graduated from UCLA in 1996 with a degree in political science before earning a master’s degree at USC, will begin his new job on Sept. 1.
Interim Chief Scott Scheffler has led the department since October 2024, after former Interim Chief Gawin Gibson was placed on administrative leave. The school’s police department was criticized for its response to campus protests in 2024 over the war between Hamas and Israel.
“I am pleased to welcome Chief Valenzuela back to UCLA to serve in this critical role,” Chancellor Julio Frenk said. “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 is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy — considered one of the world’s top law enforcement executive training programs — the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute, and the LAPD’s Command Development Program.
“I am thrilled to welcome Chief Valenzuela back to UCLA,” said Steve Lurie, associate vice chancellor for campus and community safety. “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 selected by a committee that included faculty, administrators, students and staff from UCLA and experienced law enforcement executives.
“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.”