Who's Got Your Back?

Meet Officer Jonathan Reyes, our beat coordinator for San Roque also known as beat 5.  Ofc Reyes has been in law enforcement for 12 years.  He comes to Santa Barbara via UCLA PD.  Born and raised in Santa Maria he and his wife currently live in Buellton.  His first experience in law enforcement was at a department store in Santa Maria, chasing down shoplifters armed with a radio and youthful determination.  He attended Allan Hancock College Police Academy right after high school, from there he was hired by the Santa Maria Police Dept.  

Before coming to Santa Barbara he was a field training officer, a use of force instructor and a detective.  He says this is the most satisfying so far because much of his time is spent on "feel good" and positive interactions with the public.  As beat coordinator here in San Roque, which is the largest of the 6 beats in Santa Barbara, he is responsible for the patrol efforts in the area and bringing additional resources to address problems as they arise in the community.  He can implement "extra patrol" if there is an increase in criminal activity reported to the police department.  Knowing what's happening in the community definitely becomes important whether it is tagging, vandalism, theft, or suspicious activity, all of these incidents should be reported immediately and if necessary the "extra patrol" will be put in place.  

Officer Reyes says that the very best thing to do to make and keep a community safe is to get out and meet your neighbor.  A strong sense of community is key in preventing crimes.  Criminals know when people are not engaged and do not care about each other.  They know if people aren't talking and don't know each other it's much easier to break into cars, and homes and wreak all kinds of havoc and get away with it.

The best way to reach Officer Reyes for a non-emergency is by email jreyes@sbpd.com or office phone 805-897-3748.  Everyone should put the SBPD dispatch number in their cell phones as well.  805-897-2410, this is a direct line to police dispatch 24/7 & 365. It is often faster than using 911.  Cell phone 911 calls do not tell dispatch where you are, so it is very important to give that information if you are in need of help.

If you get a chance to chat with Officer Reyes, ask him about his cooking and BBQ skills.  He is an avid photographer, inventor and "shade tree" mechanic.  His favorite place to go is Mammoth Mountain to snowboard. Be sure to wave hello if you see Officer Reyes in the neighborhood.