John Freese

John Freese serves as Chief Operating Officer of Optimus Investigations, where he is responsible for operational oversight, personnel management, compliance systems, policy development, and strategic growth. In this role, he supports the firm’s investigative teams by ensuring operational integrity, organizational efficiency, and adherence to professional and regulatory standards across all engagements.

Prior to joining Optimus, Freese served as Chief of Police for the University of California Police Department, where he oversaw department-wide operations, compliance, personnel matters, and executive-level coordination in a complex institutional environment. He later served as the senior executive responsible for all matters related to security at California Baptist University, managing comprehensive safety operations, emergency management programs, personnel oversight, and regulatory compliance.

Throughout his career, Freese worked extensively with executive leadership, legal counsel, and external agencies on matters involving compliance, risk management, crisis response, and sensitive investigations. He regularly provided executive briefings, developed policies and training programs, and led organizations through critical incidents and periods of institutional change.

Freese holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and has completed advanced leadership and management training. His background in executive operations, organizational leadership, and high-accountability environments directly supports Optimus Investigations’ commitment to professionalism, credibility, and disciplined investigative practice.

Previously, he was the Interim Chief of Police at the University of California, Riverside, managing an $8 million budget during a critical time marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and calls for police reform. He directed departmental compliance with California POST and DOJ requirements and contributed to campus-wide safety and wellness reforms.

Freese held several progressive leadership roles at UCRPD including Assistant Chief of Police, Lieutenant, and Sergeant, where he consistently handled administrative functions such as internal investigations, training oversight, personnel evaluations, and large-scale event planning. His early experience also includes roles as Detective and Corporal, where he led complex investigations and field training.

His commitment to administrative excellence extends into volunteer roles advising church leadership on security, personnel, and emergency response. Recognized multiple times for his service, Freese combines strategic management, compliance expertise, and a commitment to community safety. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from UC Riverside.