The city of Goleta is introducing its new chief of Police Services — Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Lt. Frank Vasquez.
Lt. Vasquez, who brings more than 27 years of law enforcement experience to his new post, will oversee the Goleta Police Department, which includes a motor traffic unit and two community resource deputies, as well as the unincorporated areas of the Goleta Valley.
“This is an important position for the city, and we are pleased to have such a seasoned and dedicated law enforcement professional to help maintain a safe community and continue to provide the high level of service our residents expect,” said City Manager Robert Nisbet.
“I am excited to be here and to embark on this important new assignment,” Vasquez said. “I know public safety is of upmost importance to the community and it is my honor to serve Goleta in this incredible leadership position.”
Vasquez was born in Los Angeles and grew up in Southern California. He started his career in the U.S. Air Force where he spent eight years rising to the rank of a sergeant.
His experience allowed him to travel the world and work as a canine handler. He has served the past 19 years at the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, where he has held a variety of assignments, most recently as the bureau lieutenant for Northern Stations Patrol.
His previous assignments include patrol in Goleta, Central Stations and Santa Maria. He has supervised the countywide Criminal Investigations and Special Investigations bureaus, and has been a member of a variety of collateral and specialty duties within the Sheriff’s Office.
Vasquez holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational management and leadership from the University of La Verne and is close to finishing his graduate degree.
To meet Lt. Vasquez in person or watch virtually, he will be formally introduced at Goleta City Council meeting, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 20.
The meeting will also be a time to thank Lt. Rich Brittingham, who served as chief for four years and is now the chief of police services in Carpinteria.