Paul LeBaron

Chief Paul LeBaron, (Ret.)

Paul LeBaron is a 32-year veteran of the law enforcement profession, serving with the Long Beach Police Department for over 27 years, rising to the rank of Commander. In 2020 Paul was hired by the Hermosa Beach Police Department as Chief of Police, where he served for over 5 years, retiring in April of 2025. Throughout his career, Paul made employee wellness and organizational culture a priority. During Paul’s tenure as chief, the Hermosa Beach Police Department maintained full staffing and 100% employee retention through an employee led culture of innovation and excellence. Paul has contributed numerous talks, articles, and podcasts on first responder relationships, leadership and culture building for platforms such as the International Association of Police Chiefs (IACP), FBI National Academy Associates (FBINAA), California Police Chief’s Association (CPCA) and Police1.com.

Paul holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies. He earned his Master’s degree in Management and Organizational Leadership as well as a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice from the University of Virginia. He graduated from the Sherman Block Leadership institute (Class #177), USC Executive Leadership Class (Class #1) and the FBI National Academy Class (Session #261).

Paul married his wife in 1992 (Three weeks before entering the police academy) and they spent the first 32 years of their lives as a first responder couple. They are dedicated to their 3 children, two daughters in law, 2 granddaughters and over 80 nieces and nephews. He is the fifth in a family of eight children. Paul speaks fluent Spanish and currently teaches in the Criminal

 Justice Department for CSU Long Beach and as an adjunct staff member for the Simon Wiesenthal Center, Museum of Tolerance. Paul is an avid soccer player and enjoys scuba diving in warm water. 

Course Taught:  The Balanced Responder: Thriving Personally and Professionally without Sacrificing What Matters