By Stacey Hanks–
The Citrus Heights Police Department has announced the promotion of two of its lieutenants to fill recent vacancies of two commander positions, the third highest position in the department under the Assistant Chief and Chief of Police.
“Selecting two new Police Commanders among a list of many talented personnel, was a good challenge to have, as we have no shortage of qualified personnel,” said Police Chief Ron Lawrence in a written statement released on Monday, announcing the promotion of lieutenants Jason Russo and Alex Turcotte. “Both are skilled, experienced and committed leaders who will no doubt continue to serve our organization and citizens well into our future.”
Commander Russo will now oversee the department’s Investigative Services Division, while Commander Turcotte will oversee the Patrol Services Division. The positions were left vacant after former Commander Daman Christensen retired last month and former Commander Gina Anderson was promoted to the newly created position of Assistant Chief of Police.
Related: Citrus Heights now has an Assistant Police Chief
Commander Russo’s career in law enforcement began as an intern for the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office while studying at Sacramento State, according to a bio provided by police. After graduating with a bachelors degree in Criminal Justice, he was hired by the Clayton Police Department where he was promoted to sergeant in 2003.
Three years later, he joined the newly formed Citrus Heights Police Department as one of the original sergeants, being later promoted to lieutenant in 2013. While with CHPD, Commander Russo has served in a variety of roles including SWAT Tactical and Sniper Team Leader, Training Manager, Detective, Patrol and Traffic Sergeant. He has also served as board president of the Citrus Heights Police Activities League.
Commander Turcotte started in law enforcement as a patrol officer with the Ventura Police Department in 2001 where he also served on the SWAT team. In 2006, he joined CHPD as a patrol officer and was promoted to sergeant the following year, later becoming a lieutenant in 2013.
Turcotte has worked a variety of assignments within the department, including SWAT Team Leader and the Special Investigations Unit. According to his bio, Turcotte also holds a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice along with a Masters Degree in Business Administration. He also serves as current president of the Citrus Heights Rotary Foundation.
