Meet Michael Melendrez, LAC lieutenant

October 19, 2024

Lt. Melendrez is part of the Crisis Response Team for LAC.

For nearly two decades, Michael Melendrez has helped CDCR fulfill its public safety mission. Today, he’s a lieutenant at California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC), in Lancaster.

Melendrez began his correctional career in February 2007. After graduating the 16-week academy, he was assigned to LAC. He quickly rose through the ranks, promoting to correctional sergeant in 2013 and then to lieutenant in 2016.

In addition to his leadership roles, Melendrez serves as a dedicated member of LAC’s Honor Guard and Crisis Response Team. He is currently assigned as LAC’s In-Service Training manager.

Lt. Daniel Schumacher sat down with Melendrez to learn more about his coworker.

Question and answer with Lt. Melendrez

Melendrez family at Disneyland.

Melendrez leads a multi-agency Honor Guard during a 9-11 ceremony.

What are you passionate about and why?

Family. Family is everything to me. My wife Alexis, my kids, they are the foundation of everything in my life. They are my anchor, keeping me grounded through every challenge and success. When I wake up each morning, it’s their faces that motivate me to push forward, to keep striving, and to always give my best.

They are the reason behind every decision I make, every goal I set, and every sacrifice I willingly take on. There’s nothing in this world more important than they are.

They fill my life with love, give me strength when I feel weak, and remind me every day of what truly matters. My family gives me purpose and without them, I wouldn’t be who I am today.

What’s one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had? How did it impact you?

My wife went into labor two months earlier than expected, right in the middle of her shift as the watch sergeant. It all happened so fast, I honestly thought she was going to give birth right there at work. It was terrifying, yet somehow a blessing at the same time.

As much as I was scared, I knew I had to stay strong for her. We were first-time parents, completely unsure of what to expect, and suddenly everything was happening so fast.

We were blessed with twins – a boy, Michael, and a girl, Gabby. Both were born prematurely. Michael had to stay in the NICU for 53 days, while Gabby was there for 55.

It was a rollercoaster of emotions especially when my wife had to undergo an emergency C-section. But through all the fear and uncertainty, we made it through as a family stronger than ever.

If you could spend a day doing anything you want, what would you do?

I would take my wife and kids to Disneyland. We are a Disney family, and my kids are happy when we are there. When my kids are happy, Alexis and I are happy.

By Lt. Daniel Schumacher, public information officer

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