LOS ANGELES, Calif (November 26, 2025) – The Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation (LA County Parks) proudly announces the appointment of Derek Elleri as the new Chief of Lake Lifeguard within the newly formed Aquatics Agency. His appointment follows the retirement of Chief Chris Graham, whose decades of dedicated service and leadership established the strong operational foundation that continues to guide lake safety today.

Chief Elleri brings over 34 years of experience in Lake Lifeguard operations, including the last 10 years as Lake Aquatics Manager overseeing Lifeguard Operations at Frank G. Bonelli Park. His extensive background includes emergency response coordination, rescue vessel operations, staff leadership, regulatory compliance, budget oversight, and interagency collaboration. Elleri’s calm leadership during critical incidents and his commitment to mentorship have earned him deep respect across the department.

The Aquatics Agency represents a historic restructuring of LA County Parks’ aquatics system, unifying operations across 14 lakes, 3 lake swim beaches, 44 swimming pools, and 25 splash pads. This restructure strengthens the County’s ability to provide cohesive safety standards, operational excellence, and responsive service to our communities.

With Deputy Director Hugo Maldonado, Regional Operations Manager Joseph Goss, and now Chief Derek Elleri providing unified leadership, the Aquatics Agency is positioned to advance lake operations with strengthened coordination, consistent safety practices, and a renewed commitment to public service. Together, this leadership team will guide the agency through its next chapter of operational development, staff support, and community engagement.

“Derek Elleri’s experience and leadership make him exceptionally well-qualified to guide our lake operations in this new chapter for the Aquatics Agency,” said Norma E. García-González, Director of LA County Parks. “His long-standing commitment to public safety and professional excellence ensures both continuity and innovation across our inland water programs.”

As Chief, Elleri will oversee the County’s highly trained Lake Lifeguards, who safeguard approximately 40 miles of inland waterways and operate a fleet of 18 rescue and utility vessels. He will also direct specialized units including Underwater Recovery Teams (URUs) and support swift-water rescue efforts in partnership with the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Under Chief Elleri’s leadership, LA County Parks will continue advancing key recreational and youth programs—including boating, fishing, kayaking, and the acclaimed Junior Lake Lifeguard Program, which prepares youth ages 9–17 for future roles in public safety.

LA County Parks extends its sincere appreciation to Chief Chris Graham for his exceptional service and lasting contributions to lake operations. The Department looks forward to building upon this legacy under Chief Elleri’s direction.

About the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation