University Police sworn in new officers who completed or begun required training at 10 a.m. today in the University Union’s Hinde Auditorium.

A total of 11 officers and dispatchers were sworn in. Sacramento State now has 16 field officers in total.

“Finally getting up to staff, get to serve the public and the community of Sacramento State much better,” said Sgt. Bill Gnagy.

Chief Kennett Barnett, the host of the event, provided those in attendance with a biography and fun facts about each newly sworn-in officer.

“It feels great! I am not quite done yet, but I am done with the field training part. Now I am a solo in my squad car,” said Doug Nguyen, an officer who graduated from Sac State.

Toward the end, the officers gave their oath to the department and took pictures with the chief and police staff.

Police officers have an extensive program that they have to go through to finish their entire training. They have six months of academy training, followed by four months with three different training officers. After their year probation period, they are finished, said Sgt. Kelly Clark.

“Our officers go through the same training that the Sac PD or the L.A. PD goes through, because it is mandated by the state of California,” Clark said. “They are not just serving Sac State; they are serving the whole community of Sacramento.”

Officers and family members stayed after the event ended to congratulate the new officers.

“My daughter is graduating high school this year and she wants to come up to Sac State. It makes me feel good knowing that I am going to be one of the many good people protecting her while she is going to school,” said Officer Sam Sanchez.

David Green can be reached at [email protected].