Veteran officer promoted to deputy chief

A 25-year veteran of the Santa Cruz Police Department was promoted Thursday to deputy chief, police have announced.

Lt. Dan Flippo has been a lieutenant for four years and a supervisor for 12 years, filling many roles in the department.

He’s served as a patrol officer, a sergeant, a commander in charge of a tactical team and an instructor, among other posts.

Police leaders said Flippo has established rapport with city and county leaders, community leaders, business owners and neighbors.

Chief Kevin Vogel said in a statement:

“He has distinguished himself as an effective administrator and will be an asset to our executive team…He demonstrates dedication and leadership skills at the highest levels and will enhance our department’s core values of ethics, integrity and respect.”

Flippo said in a statement:

“I am truly humbled by this honor to serve our great city, its valued community members, and our Police Department as deputy chief…I will strive to represent the highest standards of excellence in service to our community.”