About PSB

Captain Dimmitt has served for 25 years as a Law Enforcement professional. Prior to joining the Protective Services Branch in 2017, he worked for the Health and Human Services Agencies – Office of Law Enforcement Support, the Chico Police Department, and the Butte County Sheriff’s Office. Captain Dimmitt has worked as a patrol officer, Detective (investigating homicides, sexual assaults, and other serious crimes), SWAT Team Leader, Mental Health Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) member, Crisis Incident Stress Management (CISM) team member, and a Use of Force instructor. Captain Dimmitt currently oversees the PSB Headquarters Professional Standards Branch.

Message:

As the Headquarters Captain, it is my goal to help each member achieve their personal best, so they may serve the community to the utmost of their ability.
I strive daily to help others understand what my father taught me each day before he dropped me off for school:

“It’s your attitude, not your aptitude, that determines your altitude.”

Captain Pete Bisacca started his tenure with the Protective Service Branch, Porterville Developmental Center, in November of 2013 as the Operations Lieutenant. From January 2016 to June 2016, he had the privilege of serving as the Acting Captain for the Fairview Developmental Center, Protective Services Branch. In September of 2016, he humbly accepted a promotion as the PSB Captain, Porterville Developmental Center. Prior to his career with the PSB, Captain Bisacca served in the United States Navy and was temporarily assigned as a Patrolman to the Naval Station Norfolk Waterborne Police Section. This temporary assignment sparked his interest in law enforcement and upon completing his enlistment; he proceeded to pursue a career in the law enforcement profession. During the course of his 17-year law enforcement career, he worked as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Field Sergeant, Watch Commander, Emergency Response Team member and Investigator for the Department of State Hospitals in Coalinga. He had the opportunity to work as a fulltime and reserve Police Officer for the City of Coalinga Police Department and as a reserve Police Officer for the City of Huron Police Department. He was also employed as a Tribal Police Officer/Sergeant for a Native American Tribal Police Department.

Message:

As the PSB Captain at the Porterville Developmental Center, it has been an ongoing honor and privilege to serve alongside the men and women of this Department who are committed to providing professional and superior Police/Fire services to our community, clientele, staff and stakeholders. I take great pride in knowing that we provide specialized Law Enforcement services for individuals who have their own unique set of challenges. We have established positive working relationships with local, county, state and federal Law Enforcement agencies, first responders, administrators, and members of the community. We will strive to build upon these professional relationships through open communication, support and cooperation.

Members of our Department will continue to work collaboratively with the diverse group of professionals who provide treatment for our residents to ensure the Police/Fire services, provided, are carried out with compassion, professionalism and integrity. The Command Staff and I will continue to implement positive changes that are in line with best law enforcement practices, policies and procedures and the law. We will continue to seek out the most modern law enforcement training courses, equipment and technology available, facilitate training courses, and recruit/retain personnel that will enhance the services rendered to our residents, staff and the community we serve. The law enforcement professionals employed by this Department are truly dedicated to fulfilling our mission statement; “Professional Excellence and Superior Service.”

Captain Cherie Miller serves as the Captain of the Canyon Springs Community Facility, Protective Services Branch, bringing more than 16 years of law enforcement experience and prior U.S. Army military service. Before joining the Department of Developmental Services, she served with the Palm Springs and Azusa Police Departments in roles including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Gang Suppression Unit member, Firearms Instructor, Drug Recognition Expert, Patrol Sergeant, and Personnel/Recruitment Sergeant.

She has led and investigated major cases involving homicide, violent crime, domestic violence, sexual assault, crimes against children, elder and dependent adult abuse, and administrative investigations. Her background includes significant experience in personnel management, policy development, background investigations, and mentoring future law enforcement professionals.

Captain Miller holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and has completed numerous POST certified leadership and investigative programs. Her career is grounded in professionalism, accountability, and service to vulnerable populations. As Captain for PSB, she is committed to fostering a professional, accountable, and collaborative culture that ensures the highest standards of safety and service.

Message:

As Captain of the Canyon Springs Community Facility, Protective Services Branch, I am honored to work alongside dedicated professionals who protect some of California’s most vulnerable individuals. My approach to leadership centers on communication, consistency, and competency. Through open dialogue, fair and steady leadership, and a commitment to professional excellence, we will continue to provide the highest level of service to DDS individuals, staff, families, and our community partners.