
Pictured following the LAPD swearing in ceremony Oct. 18 in the Magistrate Courtroom are, back row from left, Cmdr. Chris Ross, Ofc. William Hurd and Chief Dino Sgambellone. Front row: Cmdr. Preston Ballew, Ofc. Mary Barela, Ofc. Perla Castanon, and Deputy Chief James Rodriguez. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Newly-sworn Cmdr. Chris Ross, center, is congratuled by Deputy Chief James Rodriguez, left. and Cmdr. Preston Ballew. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com
LAPD NEWS RELEASE
The Los Alamos Police Department gathered Friday for a swearing in ceremony to celebrate both new beginnings and commendable service within its ranks. The courtroom was filled with pride as community members, families, and fellow officers came together to honor the achievements of those stepping into new roles.
In a significant highlight of the event, Cmdr. Chris Ross received a well-deserved promotion that recognizes his unwavering dedication and exemplary service to our community. Cmdr. Ross has been a stalwart for the department, inspiring many with his leadership and commitment to protecting the residents of Los Alamos. His promotion stands as a testament to his hard work and the respect he has earned among his peers.
The day was also marked by the swearing-in of three aspiring officers who are eager to embark on their law enforcement journey. Ofc. Mary Barela, Ofc. Perla Castanon, and Ofc. William Hurd took the oath, ready to dedicate themselves to serving and safeguarding the community. Each of these new recruits brings unique experiences and perspectives, and we are excited to see how they will enhance our team with their passion and energy.
As they take on their roles within the department, these officers are stepping into a legacy of service characterized by integrity, bravery, and compassion. We are thrilled to welcome them aboard and look forward to the positive impact they will undoubtedly make in our community.
Let us celebrate the achievements of Cmdr. Chris Ross, Ofc. Mary Barela, Ofc. Perla Castanon, and Ofc. William Hurd — a promising chapter unfolds today in the storied history of the Los Alamos Police Department. Together, we continue to build a safer, stronger community for everyone.

Pictured following the October 18 LAPD swearing in ceremony are, from left, Cmdr. Preston Ballew, Cmdr. Chris Ross, Ofc. William Hurd, Chief Dino Sgambellone and Deputy Chief James Rodriguez. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Pictured following Friday’s LAPD swearing in ceremony are, from left, Cmdr. Preston Ballew, Cmdr. Chris Ross, Ofc. Mary Barela, Chief Dino Sgambellone and Deputy Chief James Rodriguez. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Pictured following the October 18 LAPD swearing in ceremony are, from left, Cmdr. Preston Ballew, Cmdr. Chris Ross, Ofc. Perla Castanon, Chief Dino Sgambellone and Deputy Chief James Rodriguez. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Ofc. Perla Castanon and her family following her swearing in. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Ofc. Perla Castanon’s daughter places her badge on her uniform. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Ofc. Perla Castanon takes her oath of office before Magistrate Judge Catherine Taylor. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Ofc. Milford Wiliam Hurd is pinned by Santana Hurd in the Los Alamos Magistrate Courtroom. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.co

Ofc. Mary Barela takes her oath of office before Los Alamos Magistrate Judge Catherine Taylor. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Gina Terrazas pins Cmdr. Chris Ross with his new badge. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

LAPD Cmdr. Chris Ross takes his oath of office before Magistrate Judge Catherine Taylor. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com
