POLICE DEPARTMENT WELCOMES FOUR NEW OFFICERS
On March 11 at 3:00 pm Hemet Police Chief Dave Brown administered the “Oath of Office” to four new Hemet Police Officers. The ceremony was attended by a large group of supporters including the new officers’ families and friends, department members, city staff as well as Hemet Mayor Robert Youssef and City Council Member Linda Krupa.
During the ceremony Chief Brown talked about the importance of family and community support as the new officers take on the responsibility of protecting the community. He gave a brief introduction of each new officer and challenged them to take good care of their families as they balance the pressures and difficult schedules inherent to police work. Before issuing badges to the new officers, the chief gave a detailed description of the Hemet Police badge and reminded all officers that it is a symbol of the public’s trust which must be honored at all times.
Following the formal “swearing in” ceremony, Chief Brown invited one of the new officers, Nick Figueroa, to the podium. In an apparent pre-arranged twist, Officer Figueroa took a knee and proposed to his girlfriend and presented her with a ring. All in attendance, including a large contingent from the Figueroa family applauded the newly engaged couple.
After the ceremony, Chief Brown said, “It is inspiring to see four young officers who have chosen to serve the citizens of Hemet in such a significant way. Law Enforcement is an increasingly challenging career; but good, talented people are still being called to serve. Our community is fortunate to have them!” The chief noted that the four new officers represent an important step toward the revitalization of Hemet and will allow him to permanently staff the Hemet ROCS Task Force once they complete the field training program.
Officer Cody Collins: Graduate of Yucaipa HS, 4-year US Marine Corps Veteran including combat deployments, former P/T Firefighter in San Bernardino.
Officer John Gardner: Former West Valley High School student, major telecommunications firm manager, City of Hemet resident.
Officer Lane Ahl: Graduated HS in San Juan Capistrano, worked in retail and cycling industries before attending police academy, looking to relocate his family to the Hemet area.
Officer Nick Figueroa: Graduated Chaparral HS, worked for Hemet Police Department as a Community Service Officer for 5-years before promoting to police officer.