The Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force (LEITF) has announced a new addition to its leadership team.

Chief Ruben Quesada of Swampscott, Massachusetts, is a new co-chair, joining co-chairs Chief Chad Kasmar (Tucson, Arizona) and Chief Ramon Batista (Santa Monica, California).

“I am deeply privileged to work with LEITF thought leaders to help find sensible immigration reform solutions,” Quesada said. “My role as a co-chair allows me to continue the path of LEITF as we choose to lead with heart rather than hostility. Immigration reforms should not run counter to longstanding community policing ideals and philosophies.”

Quesada’s career in law enforcement spans more than 30 years, including 20-plus years in Mesa, Arizona. He became Swampscott’s Chief of Police in 2022. He graduated from Grand Canyon University with a doctorate in education.

“Chief Quesada brings both practical expertise and intellectual depth to navigating the complex challenges of immigration reform, and I look forward to his leadership in this critical work,” Batista said. 

“Chief Quesada’s policing and leadership experience in Arizona and Massachusetts were instrumental in creating trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities,” Kasmar said. “As a chief, he has demonstrated the ability to reduce crime while also building confidence among the community he serves. I am honored to serve with him in his new capacity as co-chair.”

“Chief Quesada understands the importance of promoting trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement,” said Mike Tupper, former task force co-chair and retired Marshalltown, Iowa, police chief. “We are honored to have him join our efforts to build bridges with immigrant communities.”

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