One of Citrus Heights PD’s longest-serving hires is retiring

By Lily Tu–
Police Commander Jason Russo is retiring from the Citrus Heights Police Department at the end of this month, bringing his 17 years of service in Citrus Heights to a close.

His contributions were commended by city leaders during a Dec. 14 council meeting, with Councilmember Porsche Middleton and others highlighting Russo’s devotion to the community and noting his legacy in many of the department’s programs today.

“There’s going to be a big hole [in the department] with you not being there anymore, but we are so grateful and so thankful for your service, for keeping us safe,” said Middleton.

She also noted her first interaction with Russo was during a Police Activities League program for young people, where she watched his dedication in working with youth and saw how he made special effort to touch the life of each person.

According to CHPD’s website, Russo’s career began with an internship with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s office while attending Sacramento State University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and went on to serve as a police officer in the Bay Area for ten years, rising to the rank of sergeant in 2003.

In 2006, Russo came to Citrus Heights to help launch its police department. During his service, he worked in various leadership positions including Training Manager and SWAT Tactical and Sniper Team Leader, Training Manager, Detective, Patrol, and Traffic Sergeant. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2013 and later filled the position of Special Services Division Commander, one of two commander positions who report directly to the police chief.

Russo’s contributions to Citrus Heights, highlighted in the City Council meeting this month, extended beyond his regular police duties. Over the years, Russo trained fellow officers, served on committees for the California Police Chief’s Association, and became a founding member and president of the Citrus Heights Police Activities League. He also participated in various programs such as Relay for Life, Tip a Cop, Shop with a Cop, and the Holiday Cheer Program.

Chief of Police Alex Turcotte, who was present at the meeting, thanked Russo for his innovation, passion, and “ability to give of himself at every level.”

Councilmember Tim Schaefer also commended Russo for “exemplify(ing) what I see in a public servant and a police officer.”

Regarding his retirement, Russo called it “bittersweet” to leave behind everything the Police Department has accomplished since its formation.

“It’s been very interesting,” he told the council. “Great opportunities, good fun, good memories, good times. That will always be in my heart.”

Mayor Bret Daniels concluded in thanking Russo for his years of service to the city, and hinted at a desire to see the commander continue to be involved in the community.

“I’m hoping that you continue to come back somehow,” Daniels said, noting a need to invest in youth. “[B]ecause we can only hope they will go through their careers as you did and achieve what you did.”

Russo is one of about a dozen police employees who have been with the Citrus Heights Police Department since day one, when the department first went live on June 26, 2006. His last day in office will be Dec. 29. A selection for his replacement has not yet been made, as of Dec. 20.