Message from the Chief

I am deeply honored to step into the role as Chief of Police for Rancho Santa Margarita Police Services.  It is such a privilege to serve this incredible community and work alongside the dedicated men and women who protect it every day.  I am grateful for the trust and support I received from city officials and OC Sheriff leadership as I embark on this new path. I stand committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, service, and community engagement that the city deserves.

Our team is here for you. Whether through proactive crime prevention, responding to emergencies, or simply being present in the community, we are committed to keeping Rancho Santa Margarita a safe and welcoming place for everyone. We believe in the three T’s—Teamwork, Trust, and Transparency—and we know that public safety is a partnership between law enforcement and the people we serve.

My experience with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department includes working in custody, patrol operations, multiple investigative details, internal affairs, and supervising a proactive enforcement detail specializing in crime suppression and addressing quality of life concerns.  As a lieutenant, I was the watch commander at the newly built James A. Musick Facility where I gained valuable experience managing personnel and ensuring operational efficiency.  The combination of these experiences enhanced my ability to lead with confidence and think critically in challenging situations.

I look forward to strengthening partnerships with the residents, businesses, and community leaders to make Rancho Santa Margarita an even safer place to live, work, and visit.

Captain Dwayne Chapple 

Chief of Police Services