Building on Excellence: Ripon PD Expands Team
We’re excited to welcome new officers, staff, and support team members to the Ripon Police Department! Recently sworn in by Sgt. Danny Sauer, during a City Council meeting, these individuals join a department known for its top-notch service and strong commitment to keeping Ripon safe. Their dedication strengthens what makes our community such a special place to call home, and we’re proud to introduce them to you.
Sergeant Paul Rourick:
Sgt. Rourick started his law enforcement career with the Ripon Police Department in 2007, following his graduation from the Ray Simon Police Academy. Paul worked as a Patrol Officer before being assigned as a Field Training Officer in 2015. He has been a member of the Manteca/Ripon/Lathrop SWAT team since 2016. In January 2025, he was promoted to Sergeant and is currently serving as a Patrol Supervisor.
FTO Jacob Veltkamp:
FTO Veltkamp started his law enforcement career with the Ripon Police Department in 2019, following his graduation from the San Joaquin Delta College Police Academy. Jacob has worked as a Patrol Officer. In March 2025, he was assigned as a Field Training Officer, mentoring new recruits.
Officer Anthony Gonzales:
Officer Gonzales attended the San Joaquin Delta College Police Academy, graduating in July 2025. He has been with our department since 2021, where he started out as a Dispatcher. Anthony is currently assigned to our Field Training Program.
Officer Pilar Battaglini:
Officer Battaglini attended the Napa Valley College Police Academy, graduating in September 2012. She has prior law enforcement experience with the Stockton Police Department, Santa Clara Police Department, El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office & Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office. She was hired by our department on March 19, 2025, and is currently assigned to Patrol.
Officer Luis Portela:
Officer Portela attended the San Joaquin Delta College Police Academy, graduating in December 2024. He then went on to work for the Stockton Police Department as an officer for a brief time. He was hired by our department on June 11, 2025, and is currently assigned to Patrol.
Dispatch Supervisor Gail Fry:
Dispatch Supervisor Gail Fry was hired by our department in 2005. In 2007, she took on the important role of training new dispatchers, and in 2021, she became a Lead Dispatcher—consistently stepping up to support both her team and our community. In August 2025, she was promoted to Dispatch Supervisor.
CSO Supervisor Liz Ries:
CSO Supervisor Liz Ries was hired by our department in 2007. Her duties have included Animal Control, Code Enforcement, issuing CCW’s and she is in charge of our Property and Evidence Room. She also oversees National Night Out & other Community Events. Liz became a Lead CSO in 2024 and was promoted to CSO Supervisor in July 2025.
IT Elizabeth Farnam:
IT Farnam was previously employed with the Ceres Unified School District as a Tech Specialist. She was hired by our department on June 16, 2025, and is currently assigned as an Information Technology Technician.