Melissa Colla
San Ramon
Summary
Police Captain with extensive experience in law enforcement at Hillsborough Police Department, specializing in policy development and strategic planning. Proven leadership and decision-making skills, complemented by strong records management capabilities. Expertise in crime prevention, investigation, and community engagement. Adept at collaborating with diverse teams to effectively address security challenges.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Police Captain
Hillsborough Police Department
07.2024 - Current
- Oversaw daily operations of Police Department, including field operations and criminal investigations.
- Developed and implemented strategic goals and policies to enhance department efficiency.
- Participated in budget oversight, determining funding needs for personnel and equipment.
- Standardized procedures to improve program efficiency and identified opportunities for enhancement.
- Selected, trained, and evaluated personnel while fostering a positive work environment.
- Managed criminal investigations and prepared cases for court testimony, ensuring thorough documentation.
- Reviewed reports from subordinates to maintain high standards of accountability and accuracy.
- Strengthened community trust through public outreach efforts on social media platforms.
Police Lieutenant
Hillsborough Police Department
05.2023 - 07.2024
- Oversaw Records Department, Dispatch, Investigations Bureau, and Property and Evidence operations.
- Managed hiring processes and background investigations to ensure compliance with POST EDI standards.
- Led renovation projects for break room, locker rooms, and evidence room following 2023 flooding.
- Authored Council Staff Reports detailing vehicle acquisitions, locker installations, and evidence shelving solutions.
- Participated in Town Staff committees while representing police department in community initiatives.
- Directed implementation of 2023/2024 State Wellness grant, overseeing team decisions on fund allocation.
- Spearheaded gym remodel and development of officer wellness 'Zen Den' featuring relaxation amenities.
Police Sergeant
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2019 - 05.2023
- Supervised and trained officers during assigned shifts to enhance operational efficiency.
- Represented HPD in meetings with community groups and government agencies.
- Identified departmental needs, improving morale and streamlining processes.
- Administered Hillsborough PD Lexipol Policy Manual, ensuring policies complied with current laws.
- Collaborated with HPD officers to develop and implement new departmental policies.
- Distributed Daily Training Bulletins monthly to reinforce knowledge of policy manual among officers.
- Managed PlanIt app for scheduling shifts and training within department.
- Served as Incident Commander for Memorial Day Parade and other Town events.
Police Corporal
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Served as solo acting Watch Commander during first year as supervisor.
- Conducted daily briefings to update officers on directives and current events.
- Reviewed reports from field officers to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Investigated citizen complaints to address community concerns promptly.
- Prepared employee evaluations and provided counseling for performance improvement.
- Monitored training of probationary officers by Field Training Officers for effectiveness.
- Presented updates on new laws, procedures, techniques, and equipment to staff.
Field Training Officer
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2016 - 01.2021
- Instructed and observed police trainees to ensure comprehensive skill development.
- Compiled Daily Observation Reports to track trainee progress and performance.
- Generated End of Phase Reports to assess completion of training objectives.
- Collaborated with Training Sergeant to evaluate trainees' successful completion of FTO program.
Police Inspector
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Conducted complex investigations and case preparations for prosecution.
- Responded promptly to emergency calls, providing assistance and support services.
- Supervised officers during patrols to ensure adherence to departmental procedures.
- Collaborated with local agencies to enhance crime prevention strategies.
- Prepared detailed reports documenting investigative activities and evidence gathered.
- Coordinated with prosecutors in preparation of criminal cases for trial.
- Served as speaker representing HPD on teen parties and driving safety topics.
- Maintained 24-hour call-out status as Evidence Technician for rapid response.
School Resource Officer
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Fostered a productive relationship between HPD and the Hillsborough City School District.
- Speaker for school assemblies on the subjects of bike safety, stranger danger, and cyber safety.
- Resurrected the Hillsborough Bike Rodeo.
- Collaborated with the San Mateo County Office of Education and School Districts to implement the new countywide emergency response system called 'The Big 5'.
Patrol Officer
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2008 - 01.2018
- Highly productive and proactive patrol officer.
- Child Safety Seat Technician.
- San Mateo County Gang Task Force participant.
- San Mateo County Narcotics Force participant.
Education
Bachelor of Applied Arts - Commercial Recreation, Sports Studies, Management
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI01.1998
Skills
- Policy writing and strategic planning
- Attention to detail
- Media relations and community outreach
- Criminal investigation and personnel evaluation
- Budget management and procedure standardization
Certification
- POST Basic Certification
- POST Intermediate Certification
- POST Advanced Certification
- POST Supervisory Certification
- POST Management Certification
Professional Boards And Committees
- San Mateo County Training Manager’s Association, Vice President
- San Mateo County Commander’s Group, Secretary
- California Police Chief’s Association Sub-committee, Member to RISE (formerly Women Leader’s in Law Enforcement)
Timeline
Police Captain
Hillsborough Police Department
07.2024 - Current
Police Lieutenant
Hillsborough Police Department
05.2023 - 07.2024
Police Sergeant
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2019 - 05.2023
Police Corporal
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2018 - 01.2019
Field Training Officer
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2016 - 01.2021
Police Inspector
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2012 - 01.2015
School Resource Officer
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2012 - 01.2015
Patrol Officer
Hillsborough Police Department
01.2008 - 01.2018
Bachelor of Applied Arts - Commercial Recreation, Sports Studies, Management
Central Michigan University