RECOGNITIONS
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15), the Odessa Police Department has recently recognized the following law enforcement members.
Detective Brian Cordero has been working for OPD for almost seven years. Cordero is fluent in Spanish and his favorite food is homemade beef fajita nachos.
Sgt. Sam Chavez has been with the OPD for 15 years. Currently, he is a supervisor with the Patrol Division. He is also fluent in Spanish.
Yadhira Lerma, an administrative assistant for OPD Field Operations Bureau, has been working at OPD for almost 19 years. She is fluent in Spanish. Her favorite food is tacos, and she enjoys cooking traditional Mexican foods and desserts.
Connie Sims, an Analytic Specialist for the Chief’s Office, has been working with OPD for 25 years.
As an analyst, Sims creates statistical reports by collecting, analyzing, and presenting data using a variety of software applications to determine the increase/decrease of crimes in the city. She maintains the department’s current records system and is involved in ongoing application software projects for the department.
She speaks Spanish and enjoys cooking Mexican food. Her favorite food is asado with homemade tortillas.
Field Training Officer Cpl. Felipe Cobos has been working at the Odessa Police Department for nearly seven years. He also works on OPD’s SWAT team. Cobos also speaks Spanish.
Detective Mario Baeza has been a part of the Odessa Police Department for 27 years. Currently, he works in OPD’s Children’s Crime Unit. He is fluent in Spanish. Baeza loves all Latin foods. Enchiladas, green chile con carne and champurrado are just a few that he enjoys.
CERTIFICATE
Odessa Police Department Chief Mike Gerke was recently presented with a special Certificate of Recognition for his 25 years of service at OPD.
