Bear Valley Police Department Promotes Two Sergeants
The Bear Valley Police Department is proud to announce the promotions of Jay Rivera and Imelda Rizo to Sergeant.
Sergeant Jay Rivera has served as a patrol officer and acting sergeant with the Bear Valley Police Department for the past four years. He is also the department’s VIPS liaison, as well as a community education instructor, teaching classes that include scam awareness and how to be a good witness.
Before joining Bear Valley, Sergeant Rivera spent 27 years with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. He worked patrol, served as a field training officer, gang detective, air support, and public information officer. He is also a certified firearms instructor, defensive tactics instructor, and field training officer.
“In my role as Sergeant, I look forward to building a well-trained team that meets the needs of our community,” said Sergeant Rivera. “What I enjoy most about working in Bear Valley is the strong community support we receive. This is more than just where I work – it’s my home, and I’m proud to protect it”.
Sergeant Imelda Rizo joined the Bear Valley Police Department in November 2022. She has served as a police officer, which included both full- and part-time patrol operations, as well as serving as an administrative supervisor and gate supervisor.
Sergeant Rizo’s law enforcement career started with the LA County Sheriff’s Department in May of 2007 as a deputy sheriff. During that time, she worked in the custody division and patrol operations, including supervisory positions and specialized assignments. Combining her time at the Bear Valley PD and the LA County Sheriff’s Department, she brings over 10 years of exclusive patrol operations experience and cumulatively over 16 years of law enforcement experience.
Sergeant Rizo also has extensive specialized training, including active shooter response, emergency operations center operations, sex offender supervision, and multiple community-focused policing courses.
“I am looking forward to taking on a leadership role and being someone my team and community can depend on,” said Sergeant Rizo. “I’m motivated to mentor and support my fellow officers – helping them grow in confidence, judgment, and professionalism. I enjoy working in Bear Valley because it is a small, tight-knit community with like-minded, proactive, hardworking, and passionate people. It’s a hidden gem in Kern County, and a healthy and safe place to raise a family”.