Mayor Eric Garcetti has appointed Jeff Gorell as the new deputy mayor for homeland security and public safety, effective July 6.

Gorell is a former California State legislator who also served as a military intelligence officer and a deputy district attorney.

“The safety of Los Angeles is my top priority, and I’m honored to have Jeff Gorell join my administration,” Garcetti said. “With his experience as an Assembly member, prosecutor and decorated naval officer, Jeff is the right person to lead my office of homeland security and public safety.”

As deputy mayor for homeland security and public safety, Gorell will advise the mayor on policy related to the police, fire and emergency management departments. He will also coordinate with regional, state and federal agencies to ensure Los Angeles is safe and fully prepared for any emergency.

“I’m deeply honored to have been asked by Mayor Garcetti to serve his administration and the city of Los Angeles in this important role,” Gorell said. “The mayor has made protecting the public the highest priority, and part of his ‘back to basics’ approach to governance includes common sense ideas to help improve public safety by reducing response times, expanding relationship-based policing, broadening early intervention programs and creating greater collaboration among public safety partners.”

Gorell was a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 37th and 44th districts, from 2010 to 2014. Previously, he served as a deputy district attorney in Ventura County. Gorell is a commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve.