Antioch adds another Police Officer to the force

New Antioch Police Officer Jose Hernandez and Chief Allan Cantando following the oath of office ceremony, Monday, April 18, 2016

New Antioch Police Officer Jose Hernandez and Chief Allan Cantando following the oath of office ceremony, Monday, April 18, 2016

By Allen Payton

At a ceremony, Monday afternoon April 18, Antioch Mayor Wade Harper administered the oath of office to new Police Officer Jose Hernandez, as his family, friends and fellow officers and police department staff looked on.

“It is a pleasure to swear in a new police officer to the Antioch Police Department,” said Chief Allan Cantando. “He’s a lateral hire from the Kern County Sheriff’s Department. Other officers are very happy he’s coming on, with the work load alone.”

As his parents and sister watch Hernandez takes the oath of office, administered by Antioch Mayor Wade Harper.

As his parents and sister watch Hernandez takes his oath of office, administered by Antioch Mayor Wade Harper.

Cantando then read Hernandez’ brief bio.

Hernandez grew up in Santa Maria, California when at age 19 he moved to Bakersfield where he became a Deputy Sheriff for Kern County. There he worked for four years in the jail, courts and on patrol.

He likes to travel, watch sports, mainly the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Clippers (which solicited playful boos from those in attendance at the ceremony). A fun fact Cantando read, was that Hernandez broke his left arm playing leap frog at age 15, but then says he became more mature and made wiser decisions.

“I just want to thank everyone who came out today, my family and friends, and for their support,” Hernandez said.

He then mentioned officers Jason Erickson and Kevin Tjahjadi, who had also worked for the Kern County Sheriff’s Department and were instrumental in recruiting him to the APD.

“I look forward to working here and helping out in any way I can,” he added.

Cantando then spoke to Hernandez’ parents.

“The men and women who are going to train your son are second to none,” he stated. “It’s going to be a lot of work, a lot of hours and time away from friends and family. Thank you for supporting him as he transitions into the Antioch Police Department.”

This brings the force back to 94 sworn officers, following the departure of an officer from the department, last month.


the attachments to this post:


Hernandez takes oath


Hernandez & Cantando


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