Chief Deputy Andrew Elia

Chief Deputy Andrew Elia

Chief Deputy Andrew Elia began his career in 1997 as a Cadet with the San Marino Police Department, while completing undergraduate course work. In 1999, he attended the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office (LASD) basic academy, graduating a member of Class 302. He returned to San Marino as a patrol officer within patrol operations.

In February 2001, Chief Deputy Elia joined the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office and was assigned to patrol operations at the Jurupa Valley Station. While there he was assigned as a field training officer and school resource officer. In December 2005, Chief Deputy Elia was promoted to the rank of Corporal and assigned to the Moreno Valley Station. During his time as a corporal, he was assigned to the problem oriented policing team. In February 2008, Chief Deputy Elia promoted to the rank of Sergeant and held various assignments at the Robert Presley Detention Center, Ben Clark Training Center, and the Jurupa Valley Station.

In December 2017, Chief Deputy Elia was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and held various assignments at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility and the Jurupa Valley Station. In January 2019, he served as the Chief of Police for the city of Norco. While in Norco, he implemented community outreach programs and increased efficiency of staffing.

In January 2019, Chief Deputy Elia was promoted to the rank of Captain at the Lake Elsinore Station. He served as the Chief of Police for the cities of Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, and Canyon Lake. He dedicated time to the development of community engagement strategies, improved efficiencies in community policing, and expanded the homeless outreach team. In September 2022, Chief Deputy Elia was assigned to command the Major Crimes Bureau, which is comprised of several units including the Central Homicide Unit, Force Investigations Detail, Special Victims Unit, Cold Case Unit, Computer and Technology Crime High Tech Response Team, Crime Analysis Unit, and the Forensics Unit.

Chief Deputy Elia currently resides in Riverside with his wife and their family. He has achieved an Associate Degree in Administration of Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

On November 2, 2023, Chief Deputy Elia was appointed to his current rank by Sheriff Chad Bianco.