News Release:
Ventura, Calif. — During National Police Week, happening May 15-21, 2022, the Ventura Police Department (VPD) recognizes the courageous police officers who’ve selflessly sworn to protect and serve Ventura and honors Corporal Eric Vazquez as the Officer of the Year.
“Corporal Eric Vazquez brings an incredibly positive attitude and work ethic to our team,” said Sergeant Mike Acquarelli. “Vazquez makes an effort to connect with and mentor younger officers and holds a variety of collateral assignments further developing his professional and leadership skills. He is truly an outstanding representative of our agency and the City of Ventura as a whole.”
Corporal Vazquez started with VPD as a police officer trainee in 2006 and has held assignments in patrol, gang prevention, major crimes, the Communications Center, and the Patrol Task Force. He is also a Field Training Officer and a member of the SWAT team. He was promoted to Corporal in 2017 and will be promoted to Sergeant in May 2022.
“I am extremely proud of our team of officers who’ve dedicated their lives to Ventura’s safety,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “Our officers provide exceptional service with integrity, respect, and professionalism, and I am proud to lead an agency that is compassionate and dedicated to public safety. Their great work does not go unnoticed!”
National Police Week is also a time to honor those fallen officers who have given their lives in the line of duty, including the loss of Ventura Police Sergeant Darlon “Dee” Dowell who was tragically killed on August 7, 1978. The street in which the Ventura Police headquarters is located was named Dowell Drive in his honor.
Currently, VPD has 137 sworn officers who have completed an intensive 6-month training academy, a 6-month field training program, and a one-year probationary period.
The Ventura Police Department is currently hiring lateral, academy-trained officers, as well as police officer trainees. For more information about the Ventura Police Department recruitment and hiring process, visit www.VenturaPoliceJobs.org.
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