Treasurer
James Lopez
Captain
Captain James Lopez was born in Santa Maria, California, and later moved to Silicon Valley, where he graduated from Lincoln High School in 1991. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving as a combat medic with the 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
In 1995, Captain Lopez joined the Los Angeles Police Department, graduating with Class 9-95. His first assignment was in the Newton Division, after which he served in various capacities in the Southwest and Hollenbeck Areas, including Patrol, CRASH, SPU, and CLEACLEAR. In 2007, he was promoted to Sergeant and assigned to 77th Street Division. He continued his service as a Patrol Sergeant in Wilshire and Rampart, and notably completed a five-year tour as a Gang Sergeant with the 77th Street Gang Enforcement Detail, which he considers one of his proudest accomplishments.
In 2019, Captain Lopez was promoted to Lieutenant and assigned to Newton as a Watch Commander. Two years later, he took on roles as Officer-in-Charge of the Southeast Gang Impact Team and as Southeast Detective Commanding Officer. In February 2023, he was promoted to Captain and appointed as the Commanding Officer of Southwest Patrol. His most recent assignment is as the Commanding Officer of the Air Support Division, where he oversees the largest municipal helicopter fleet in the country.
Captain Lopez holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Management from Union Institute and University and a Master of Science in Executive Management Leadership from the University of Southern California. He is married to Detective Sandra Lopez, and together they have three sons: Alex, Cristian, and Jacob.
Captain Lopez’s extensive experience and qualifications serve as a tremendous asset to HAPCOA, enabling him to effectively mentor and inspire the next generation of law enforcement professionals.