On August 1, the Glendale Police Department held a ceremony to swear in and promote new appointees and longtime members. The event, which took place in the community room at the Glendale Police Department headquarters, was attended by the honorees, their friends, families, and members of the public.
The ceremony recognized individuals across various divisions, including court services, custody, field services, administrative services, and other areas within the department. In total, 16 individuals were sworn in or promoted, with half of the group being women.
Glendale Police Chief Manuel Cid highlighted the diverse talents and backgrounds of the group, stating, “This group is full of a lot of great stories… but collectively they bring a great deal of talent, character, and diversity to our organization. It’s groups like this that will continue to see this organization enrich and continue to set us up for success as we move forward.”
Among the 16 honorees were five new female police communications operators, also known as 911 dispatchers. The ceremony also honored sisters Anasheh and Olga Varouzian, who have both had long careers with the Glendale Police Department.
Anasheh Varouzian was promoted to custody supervisor. She began her career in 2007 as a police cadet and later became a custody officer. Anasheh has been a senior custody officer for six years and is involved in various committees within the department. She expressed that her experience as a woman in law enforcement has been positive and fulfilling, emphasizing the supportive environment and her enjoyment in serving the community.
Olga Varouzian, promoted to sergeant, started her career with the department in 2005 as a records community service officer. She became a reserve police officer in 2010 and a full-time officer in 2012. Olga has worked in patrol and the Investigative Services Division of Burglary. She is also a member of the Crisis Negotiation Team and was assigned to the Eurasian Organized Crime Task Force in 2018. Despite facing occasional challenges from male suspects who questioned her authority, Olga remains committed to empowering other women in the department and ensuring they have the support and confidence to advance in their careers.
The public can view the ceremony on the Glendale Police Department’s Instagram @glendalepolicedept.
