The Ripon Police Department gathered this week to honor a series of promotions and introduce new faces during a ceremony held at department headquarters.

Three new staff members were formally welcomed. Officer Pilar Battaglini, who joined the department in March 2025, brings a wealth of law enforcement experience from several agencies and is now serving in the patrol division. Officer Luis Portela, hired in June, joined the patrol team after completing the academy in December 2024. The department also expanded its technical support with the addition of IT Technician Elizabeth Farnam, who came on board in June to provide critical technological expertise and ensure smooth operations.

Several staff members were recognized for their advancement within the department. Community Service Officer Liz Ries, a Ripon Police employee since 2007, was promoted to CSO Supervisor in July after years in a lead role. Gail Fry, who has served as Lead Dispatcher since 2005, was named Dispatch Supervisor in August, reflecting her long-standing commitment to training and guiding dispatch staff.

Other notable promotions included Officer Anthony Gonzales, a former dispatcher who graduated from Delta College’s police academy in July and is currently completing the department’s Field Training Program. Officer Jacob Veltkamp was named one of the newest Field Training Officers, while Officer Paul Rourick, a Ripon Police veteran since 2007 and member of the SWAT team, was promoted to Sergeant.

“We are proud of each of them and grateful for their service and dedication to the City of Ripon,” the department shared in a statement on social media.