Cal State Fullerton’s Police Department welcomes Lt. Cruz Alday, who brings over 27 years of law enforcement experience with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Rising through the ranks, he has had the opportunity to work a diverse range of assignments, including custody, patrol, SWAT, investigations, internal affairs and department commander. He served as the chief of police for two of the sheriff’s contract cities, where he played a pivotal role in delivering high-quality public safety services.
Committed to building strong community partnerships, Alday collaborated with organizations such as Waymakers, Human Options, Laura’s House and the Trauma Intervention Program to support crime survivors. Additionally, he worked closely with the Behavioral Health Bureau and Orange County Health Care Agency to enhance responses to mental health calls, ensuring individuals in crisis receive appropriate care and resources.
Fluent in Spanish, Alday is a member of the California Homicide Investigators Association, California Association of Tactical Officers and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
Cruz possesses a management certificate from the California Peace Officer Commission on Standards and Training. A proud CSUF alum, he earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and is honored to return to his alma mater to support a safe, inclusive and welcoming campus.