Stockton beefs up police ranks | News

STOCKTON, CA -  There was good news Thursday for a city facing staggering crime rates and  bankruptcy. 

The Stockton Police Department added four officers to the ranks, and they'll be on the streets in a couple of weeks.  Four more people were hired to become officers.  Their training will last about six months.

William Stage is from Santa Rosa and one of the young men sworn in Thursday.  He is fully aware of the challenges facing his new home.

"Even though the city is having hard times, they'll pass and I'll be here and I want to make what difference I can, one day at a time," said Stage.

The Stockton Police Department has funding to add another 19 officers.  Then at that point, federal funding will kick in, making the city eligible to add 17 more officers.

by tdaly@news10.net