The first record of official law enforcement in Montebello was circa 1917. From c. 1917 to c. 1933 Montebello law enforcement consisted of individuals employed as either Marshalls or Constables.
The City of Montebello was incorporated on October 16, 1920. Between 1920 and 1933 law enforcement was primarily the responsibility of the local Marshall and/or Constable.
Jack Maxwell was the first person to be sworn in as the Chief of Police for Montebello Police Department in c. 1933. Some records indicate Chief Maxwell may have served as Police Chief as early as 1926. Chief Maxwell served as Montebello's Chief for nearly twenty years, the longest standing chief for Montebello to date. He later served as Chief of Police for Las Vegas Police Department.
From c. 1926 to 1964 the Police Department was located at 140 N. Sixth Street where the current United States Post Officer is located.
The Police Department building, currently located at 1600 W. Beverly Blvd., was dedicated on December 6, 1964 and rededicated on October 22, 1994 after renovation and expansion.