Chief Mike Saffell has over 30 years of experience with the Gardena Police Department and has held almost every position in both the Operations and Support Services Divisions. Chief Saffell was a key member of the department, creating and implementing Gardena’s District Policing Program. For 15 years, the program continues to serve as their flagship model of delivering policing services. During his time as police chief, Saffell has designed effective strategies, policies, and programs, noticeably increasing community interaction and satisfaction. In addition, he has published several articles in the areas of advancing community policing and increasing organizational trust.

Chief Saffell was the El Camino Lion’s Club “Citizen of the Year” and the Asian American Drug Abuse Program Community “Member of the Year”. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, Long Beach and, a Master’s Degree in Conflict Resolution, Negotiation, and Peacebuilding from California State University- Dominguez Hills. He is a graduate of POST Command College Class 47 and the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute Class 204.