El Monte Police Officer Jesus Rojas knows all about community policing and he’s got the hardware to prove it.
Rojas received the 2025 Centurion Award for Excellence in Community Policing from the Peace Officers Association of Los Angeles County (POALAC) at a ceremony Oct. 27, at the University of California.
It is the first time in 96 years that an officer from the El Monte Police Department has been recognized with this honor, association officials said.
“Rojas is completely dedicated to his job,” Chief Jake Fisher said. “He came to us from our community originally as a police cadet and has remained in our department currently serving as the Corporal of Community Relations. Rojas has been key to finding new and creative ways to enhance our relationships with schools, businesses, residents, and buy-in from our entire department to move our community mission forward.”
Rojas was recognized for his proactive and compassionate approach to policing, underlining not only his role as a public servant and member of law enforcement, but most of all, as a community friend.
“His presence, willingness to engage the community, and inclusive approach has contributed to building public trust and fostering a culture of cooperation, compassion and community throughout El Monte,” association officials said in announcing the award.
Established in 1929, POALAC represents law enforcement agencies across LA County and supports charitable programs in local communities.
Rojas was selected for his deep, long-standing commitment to community building and public safety. For years, he has been at the center of El Monte’s most meaningful outreach efforts, helping create and sustain programs that bring families, youth, and officers together.
His leadership has shaped signature events and initiatives such as the Christmas Holiday Toy Giveaway, Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway, Red Ribbon Week, National Night Out, department Open House events, the Citizens Academy, the El Monte Torch Program, and countless safety presentations for local residents.
Department officials say Rojas’ commitment to building trust, supporting families, and fostering positive relationships with youth has made a lasting impact on the city.
Jessie Redd, managing director for public safety initiatives at the USC Price Center on National Defense and Public Safety, worked with Rojas when he attended the school’s Public Safety Leadership Program. From the start, it was evident he cares deeply about his community, Redd said.
“Officer Rojas deserves recognition because he leads with compassion and shows what community-centered policing should look like,” she added. “His greatest strength is his ability to connect with people in a sincere, respectful way. What impresses me most is how consistently he shows up for his community, on the street, in moments big and small, always bringing kindness to the work and everywhere he goes.”
El Monte’s police department garnered another award from the association, too. Volunteer Jane Ellis was honored for her 18-year involvement in the city’s Volunteers Caring and Patrolling Program (VCAP).
Monrovia Police Department earned an Excellence in Community Policing (Team) for its Community Activists Policing Bureau.