San Benito Police Department officers Isaac Vasquez and Mike Cortez are seen during the ceremony recognizing their promotion to lieutenant and sergeant, respectively. Also shown are SBPD Assistant Operations Chief Michael Galvan and Operations Chief Martin Morales. (Staff photos by Heather Cathleen Cox)
By HEATHER CATHLEEN COX
Staff Writer
reporter@sbnewspaper.com
After two November 19 promotions and two November new hires, the San Benito Police Department is not stopping any time soon.
Chief of Operations Martin Morales noted at Thursday’s promotion ceremony that within the next 90 days, the department is looking to fill at least a few other officer positions, including a captain position.
On Thursday, December 13, Detective Michael Cortez was promoted from a P-03 to sergeant while Isaac Vasquez Jr. was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant.
Vasquez, who has been with SBPD for 19 years, said he plans to keep things the same as he steps into his new role of lieutenant. Vasquez said, “I want to provide a positive outlook for the (officers) under me and work more efficiently, making them better officers.”
Of receiving this promotion after many years of dedicated service, Vasquez said, “It feels good.”
Comparatively, the promotion to sergeant was a welcome experience for Cortez, who has been with the department over eight years. Cortez said, “It feels great to be promoted.”
Cortez said, “I understand a lot of new responsibilities including more leadership and management skills will be required.” He added that he is up for the “challenge of overseeing officers. I look forward to these duties, and I welcome the challenge of patrol.” The detective has not been on patrol recently, as his detective duties have not allowed for the opportunity. He added, “Patrol is different than detective work, and I always wanted to be back on patrol.”
After a brief ceremony in which the chief provided Cortez and Vasquez with their new badges, respectively, he shared his utmost confidence that they will each thrive in their new positions.
In addition to these promotions, SBPD has recently hired two new officers. Hector Lopez began police work this week with the department, and Benisse Gomez, former police officer with the City of Combes, is slated to start work on Monday.
No word is set as to when further hires and or promotions might transpire, but Chief Morales said the department is making such considerations for the near future.
Read this story in the Dec. 19 edition of the San Benito News, or subscribe to our E-Edition by clicking here.
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