Lieutenant Joe Poelstra began his law enforcement career in 1993.  After attending Cal State Fullerton, he graduated from Orange County Sheriff’s Academy and started with the Costa Mesa Police Department where he served for 9 years, achieving the rank of Corporal. During his time there, Lt. Poelstra gained extensive experience as a traffic investigator and worked at South Coast Plaza, focusing on fraud and burglary cases. He was selected to be a Field Training Officer and he trained 22 officers over a two year period, demonstrating a strong commitment to mentorship and leadership.

In 2008, Lt. Poelstra joined the Hermosa Beach Police Department (HBPD), taking on roles such as Patrol Officer, Detective, and Acting Watch Commander. He won Police Officer of the Year in 2016 and was promoted to Sergeant - taking on additional responsibilities, including serving as an FTO Supervisor, creating the Community Police Academy, and establishing the Department's social media presence on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

In May 2022, Lt. Poelstra was assigned to the Professional Standards Unit, where he successfully recruited and processed over 600 applications to ultimately hire 26 new employees for various positions, earning recognition from regional agencies for his effectiveness in recruitment. Because of these efforts, he won the “Excellence in Innovation” award from POALAC in 2023.  Lt. Poelstra was also featured as a Subject Matter Expert at a Hiring and Retention Symposium in Irvine in June 2023 and spoke at the IACP conference on Hiring and Retention in San Diego in October 2023.

With a career spanning over 25 years, Lt. Poelstra continues to be a driving force within HBPD, contributing to the department's growth and success. He has completed the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and carries this knowledge over into mentoring and developing the next generation of Law Enforcement professionals.

Lieutenant Mick Gaglia began his law enforcement career in June 1999 as a Public Safety Officer (PSO) with the Hermosa Beach Police Department (HBPD). In January 2000, he attended the OCSD Academy, graduating on June 27, 2000. Over the years, Lt. Gaglia climbed the ranks from Patrol Officer to Acting Police Captain, showcasing strong leadership, crisis management, and a commitment to mentoring and supervising personnel at all levels.

As the Professional Standards Unit Sergeant, Lt. Gaglia successfully led organizational culture changes, enhancing recruitment and retention efforts to establish department stability. Additionally, he directed community policing initiatives, led investigative teams, and played a key role in securing notable convictions through strategic planning and public relations expertise.

In his most current role as Acting Police Captain, Lt. Gaglia oversaw the Operations Bureau, managing the K9 Unit, Patrol Operations, Reserve Unit, and Traffic Bureau. Reporting directly to the Chief of Police, he served as the acting Chief in the Chief’s absence. With a background in various capacities such as Patrol, Motors, FTO, Watch Commander, and Detectives, Lt. Gaglia brings a wealth of experience to their leadership role.

Lt. Gaglia has been recognized for his dedication in his field, receiving honors such as Police Officer of the Year and the Medal of Valor Distinguished Service Award. He has completed the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and the National Command and Staff College, furthering his expertise in law enforcement leadership.

Currently residing in Tustin with his wife, Mindy, and children, Gavin and Kaitlyn, Lt. Gaglia remains actively involved in the community, enjoying ice hockey, mountain biking, and travel. Known for his culinary skills, Lt. Gaglia serves as the department’s BBQ chef and culinary advisor.