Wayne C. Clayton is a trailblazer on a number of fronts. As a retired law enforcement administrator, he is nationally recognized for his vision and courage to develop a model of community-based policing long before it became the buzz-word for building better and safer communities.

Mr. Clayton enjoyed a distinguished and eventful career in law enforcement, spanning 42 years—most of which he served with the City of El Monte as Chief of Police. Before his retirement at the turn of the millennium, Mr. Clayton had risen through the ranks and had earned a number of distinctions and honors along the way.

He is also credited with developing a diverse array of crime prevention, gang intervention, drug abuse prevention and domestic violence programs that have made a significant social impact in the greater El Monte community.

A 1959 graduate of Mt. SAC, Mr. Clayton earned a bachelor’s degree in police administration at Cal State LA, and completed studies at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va., in 1980.

Mr. Clayton served as a president and member of local, state and federal peace officer associations. He has also served the community as an officer and board member of numerous organizations.

Through all his involvements, Mr. Clayton has been a staunch advocate of lifelong learning and has encouraged youth to pursue education as the “path to success.”

He shares his recognition with his wife, Donna.