James Petray | Investigations Captain

(619) 476-2419

Captain James Petray began his law enforcement career in 2001 as a recruit with the Sacramento Police Department, successfully completing the Sacramento Police Academy and serving as a Community Service Officer. After less than a year with Sacramento PD, he joined the Chula Vista Police Department, where he has built a broad range of experience across multiple operational and investigative assignments.

He served as a Patrol Officer, Gang Suppression Unit (GSU) Officer, Narcotic Enforcement Team (NET) Detective, Patrol Agent, and Crimes of Violence and Homicide (COV) Detective. Captain Petray was promoted to Sergeant in 2017, serving as a Patrol Sergeant and a Professional Standards Unit (PSU) Supervisor. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2022, serving as a Patrol Watch Commander, Professional Standards Unit (PSU) Lieutenant, and Acting Captain for the Community Engagement Division. In November 2025, he was promoted to Captain to oversee the Investigations Division.

He has also contributed extensively through collateral duties. He served on the SWAT Team for approximately 17 years as an Operator and later as a Team Leader. Additional collateral roles included Field Training Officer (FTO), Chemical Agent Instructor, Emergency Services Police Department Liaison, and Community Adversity Support Team (CAST) Police Department Liaison.

Captain Petray holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Political Science from the University of California, Davis.  In 2025 he was promoted to Captain and now oversees the Investigations Division, where he continues to serve the community with dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.