Michael Bengoa-Bollinger, Susanville’s very first Public Safety Chief, a position that combined the roles of Chief of Police and Fire Chief, retired on October 10th.
“The City of Susanville extends its heartfelt thanks to Chief Michael Bengoa-Bollinger for his many years of dedicated service to the community. We wish him the very best of luck in his retirement,” said City Administrator Dan Newton.
Bengoa-Bollinger’s impressive career journey includes serving as a volunteer firefighter at the Susanville Fire Department, as well as firefighting roles with CalFire and the Bureau of Land Management.
In addition to serving Lassen County residents as a Deputy for the LCSO, he has also served as a Deputy Sheriff in Butte County, and as a Parole/Probation Agent for the State of Wyoming Department of Corrections. In addition, he has held positions as a Police Sergeant in the towns of Afton, Wyoming, and Herlong, California.
When Bengoa-Bollinger was appointed to the position in February of 2024, Newton said that his dedication to public service is evident through his longstanding commitment to the city of Susanville.
He began his career as a Reserve Police Officer in 1989, transitioning to a full-time officer in 2012. Over the years, he has earned various promotions within the department, ultimately serving as Captain of the Police Department since September of 2021.
He served as Acting Police Chief beginning in November of 2023, followed by his appointment as Public Safety Chief the following year.
Lieutenant Allen Sobol, a long-time member of the Susanville law enforcement community, has been appointed acting Public Safety Chief.
“Lieutenant Sobol will provide steady leadership while the City conducts a thorough search for a permanent successor,” explains Newton.
Newton added, “The City of Susanville thanks Chief Bengoa-Bollinger for his service and appreciates Lieutenant Sobol’s willingness to step into this important role.”
Further updates regarding the recruitment process and the appointment of the next Public Safety Chief are expected to be released by the city shortly.
