Rafael Quintero Named New Burbank Police Chief Starting April

BURBANK, Calif. — Burbank City Manager Justin Hess announced this week that Glendale Police Capt. Rafael Quintero will take over as the new chief of the Burbank Police Department starting in April. Quintero succeeds outgoing Police Chief Michael Albanese, who officially retired on Friday.

Deputy Chief Adam Cornils will oversee the department in the interim until Quintero assumes his new role. Upon his appointment, Quintero expressed enthusiasm about his new position, stating, “I am excited and honored to have been selected as the next chief of the Burbank Police Department. I am incredibly grateful for the relationships built over the years and the support of BPD’s dedicated men and women.”

Quintero brings 25 years of law enforcement experience to Burbank, spending two years as an officer in San Jose and 23 years with the Glendale Police Department. During his tenure in Glendale, he held various assignments including Patrol, Gang Investigations, and the Special Weapons and Tactics Unit (SWAT). He was later promoted to traffic bureau commander and patrol watch commander.

Most recently, Quintero oversaw the Professional Standards Bureau, which focuses on hiring, recruiting, and internal affairs. His leadership has been characterized by innovative strategies aimed at improving community safety, optimizing police services, and enhancing operational efficiencies through technology and data analytics.

“Captain Quintero is a dedicated and forward-thinking law enforcement professional who values community-focused policing,” Hess said. “He brings an innovative approach, fresh energy, collaborative spirit, and a deep commitment to public safety, ensuring a strong connection with both the community and the department.”

Quintero has experience managing large-scale community events, protests, and emergency responses, equipping him with valuable skills in handling complex and high-pressure situations. His commitment to building public trust and maintaining clear communication with the community is expected to be integral to his leadership in Burbank.

In related news, police Chief Michael Albanese retired after joining the Burbank Police Department as a captain in April 2010. He rose through the ranks, becoming Deputy Chief by 2015. Albanese served as Interim Police Chief in July 2021 before being appointed to the permanent position.

Throughout his career, Albanese implemented community policing programs, including the Mental Health Evaluation Team, gun buyback, and drug take-back initiatives. He also oversaw the acquisition of body-worn and in-car camera systems. Prior to Burbank, Albanese served for 37 years with the Los Angeles Police Department, where he was part of LAPD’s SWAT unit and a leader in their Crisis Negotiation Team.

In a notable incident, Albanese was involved in the O.J. Simpson standoff as a crisis negotiator. His contributions to law enforcement extend to participating in seminars throughout the U.S. and Canada and authoring several articles related to SWAT and negotiation processes.