Othello has new assistant chief

OTHELLO – During a Nov. 13 City Council meeting, a life-long resident was promoted from school resource officer to the city's No. 2 position in the Police Department.

Sgt. Aaron Garza was recognized during a pinning ceremony in which he was introduced as assist police chief.

Garza grew up in Othello and was an Othello High School Class of 2000 graduate.

After graduating, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps, then returned home to work in the police department, where he has been a police officer, school resource officer, department accreditation manager and firearms instructor.

With Garza's promotion, the Police Department has announced changes in its school resource officer positions.

Officer Fernando Lopez will replace Garza at Othello High School, city officials said. He has been stationed at McFarland Middle School for the last two years.

Officer Bryan Jacobsen will assist Lopez at the high school and share DARE and high school criminal justice program duties, officials said.

Jacobsen has been with the department more than two years.