By Ruth SOWBY

The Sept. 24 ceremonies at the Glendale Police Dept. welcomed new officers, recognized promotions and introduced new professional staff to Glendale. The GPD Community Room was the venue for family, friends and the public to offer congratulations to all officers badged and recognized.   

The ceremonies opened with Glendale City Councilmember and former Glendale Mayor Vartan Gharpetian offering a warm welcome from the City.  

“It’s because of our parents that we made it this far in life,” said Gharpetian. 

Glendale Police Chief Manuel “Manny” Cid was next up to the podium. 

“Hands down, this is the best part of my job,” he said. “This is an exciting time for GPD as we are experiencing a lot of new additions to our department and our leadership team. This talented and diverse group of new and promoted officers, represent a really bright future for GPD.” 

Glendale VIPs were then introduced, including retired GPD Chief Carl Povilaitis, Glendale Community College Chief of Police Gary Montecuollo, and Glendale Fire Chief Jeff Brooks.  

The ceremony included the presentation of the colors, followed by the swearing-in of new officers. Officers Chung, White, Cooke, Haroutunian, Mangasarian, Tsolakyan, Matamoros and Powell were sworn in by the chief as Glendale police officers. Officers Chung, White and Cooke are lateral officers who are joining the GPD organization from the Simi Valley Police Dept. and the UCLA Police Dept.

Then came the promotion ceremony. Among those promoted were Jason Ross to captain, Robert William to deputy chief and Shawn Sholtis, Jose Barajas and Shaun Carlson from the rank of sergeant. Barajas’ wife Dana pinned on his new badge. Daughter Emma, 1, and son Logan, 3, were in tow. 

Also welcomed were GPD’s newest Parking Services supervisor Jesus Alvarez. Prior to this role, Alvarez worked for the City of Glendale Public Works Dept. as its parking services supervisor. 

And finally, also welcomed was the new Police Custody Officer Britney Figueroa. Figueroa will be assigned to the Glendale Police Dept. – Field Services Division, Custody Bureau. 

The event served as an opportunity to highlight the department’s ongoing commitment to serving the Glendale community.