Santa Barbara Police Department Swears in Four New Officers

Source: Santa Barbara Police Department

The Santa Barbara Police Department is proud to announce the swearing-in of four new law enforcement officers. Last week Chief Bernard Melekian held a ceremony on the front steps of the Santa Barbara Police Department congratulating three police academy graduates and one lateral officer.

These newly sworn officers will soon begin an extensive 18+ week field training program prior to being released as solo functioning officers.  We are happy to introduce the newest sworn members of the Santa Barbara Police Department to the community.

Officer Sean Zosimo:

Sean was born and raised in Oxnard, California.  Following high school, Sean attended the University of Hawaii Manoa with a major in political science.  When Sean returned to his hometown, Sean worked at Nike for several years before becoming a police officer with the Santa Paula Police Department and lateraled to the Santa Barbara Police Department.  Sean enjoys playing basketball and golf and is a huge Clippers and Dodgers fan.  Sean looks forward to getting to know his fellow officers and serving the City of Santa Barbara. 

Officer Michelle Royals:

Michelle was born and raised in Torrington, Connecticut. She attended Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut where she played basketball and earned her bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, before pursuing a master’s degree from Springfield College in Strength and Conditioning.  Michelle moved to Santa Barbara almost 6 years ago and worked as a Sports Performance Coach at UCSB.  Michelle enjoys all things outdoors, and hikes anywhere to see a cool waterfall.  Michelle loves weightlifting, cars, and airplanes.  She spends a lot of her free time in the gym or at the beach with her dog, Rue.  She’s excited to serve the community of Santa Barbara as a police officer.

Officer Madison Hank:

Madison was born and raised in Irvine, California, with her two sisters. She attended California State University Fullerton where she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Prior to joining Santa Barbara Police Department, Madison worked as a swim instructor for the City of Irvine, as well as a process server for a law firm.  Madison enjoys working out, swimming whenever the opportunity arises, and hiking in the Los Padres National Forest. Madison is very excited to serve the community members in the City of Santa Barbara.

Carlos Garcia:

Carlos was born and raised in Santa Barbara. Prior to joining the Santa Barbara Police Department, Carlos worked at a local automotive repair shop where he mastered his craft for 8 years.  Carlos later completed his Associates Degree in Criminal Justice and completed several Citizen’s Police Academies which confirmed his desire to join the profession.   Carlos always had an interest in law enforcement and looks forward to serving and protecting his community.