Santa Barbara Police Department swears in nine new officers

The Santa Barbara Police Department will soon have nine new officers patrolling the streets.

Police Chief Lori Luhnow welcomed the new officers to the force Thursday night.

Most recruits come from the southern California area, but some hail from as far as the east coast.

Luhnow said these new hires will help fill a gap and make an immediate impact in the community.

“It’s great for the community it’s great for us and they’re all just great quality people,” Luhnow said. “I’m excited to put the stamp of Santa Barbara on their arm and say that they’re ours.”

For new officer Scott McBeth, the new position continues a legacy of protecting and serving.

“After serving in the military this was definitely something that I was interested in,” McBeth said. “Serving my community is something that I am looking forward to.”

Chief Luhnow said they aren’t done hiring, and in fact they have more future officers waiting in the wings.