Brownwood Police Department welcomed its newest officer, Gary L. Villalpando, as he took the Oath of Office and Law Enforcement Oath of Honor at the Brownwood City Council meeting Tuesday morning.
Villalpando is a 1994 Brownwood High School graduate and graduated from the Abilene Police Academy. Working for Brownwood Police Department will be his first law enforcement job. Before that he worked as a correctional officer at Texas Youth Commission from 2000-2009, then became employed with the Center for Life Resources in Brownwood.Villalpando stated that before he left TYC, he had decided to go into law enforcement; however Brownwood had discontinued the local police academy and the first chance he had, he entered Abilene Police Department’s academy.
His fiancée, Stacie Anderson pinned Villalpando’s badge after he took the oaths, which was a proud moment for both. The two plan to wed next November.
“She was there for me through the academy, to help me study and to help ease the fears of not making it through,” said Villalpando.
The first day for the new officer was last Thursday. Villalpando was introduced to the evidence room by Lieutenant Tracy Delgado who showed him how evidence should be packaged and stored.
Currently Villalpando is on patrol with his field training officer Cpl. Stephanie Morgan. He stated that every day has been different and a great experience.
Mayor Stephen Haynes thanked Villalpando for his calling to public service.
“Becoming an officer is not just a job, it is a calling. Thank you for helping to keep our citizens safe,” said Haynes.
Pictured above is officer Villalpando with Brownwood Chief of Police Mike Corley. Below, Stacie Anderson pins badge on Villalpando.
