Nextdoor recently launched the Nextdoor Neighborhood Champions program as a part of its summer safety campaign, and the program recognizes the law enforcement partners who have gone above and beyond on Nextdoor by compiling a list of the 35 most appreciated and engaging public safety officials over the last year based on the most “thanks” and replies from members. Lieutenant John Torrez of the Milpitas Police Department was selected as one of the top 35 law enforcement professionals nationwide who have fostered a strong relationship between the police and its community through the social media platform. He has been the sole manager and contributor to all of the police department’s social media accounts, which include Nextdoor, Facebook, Nixle, and Twitter. It comes as no surprise that Lieutenant Torrez has been an excellent communicator and ambassador in the community, since he is a Milpitas native and spent his childhood growing up in Milpitas. After high school, he volunteered his time at the police department as a Police Explorer while working as a part-time Records Intern in 1991. In 1994, he was hired as a Police and Fire Communications Dispatcher, and in 1995, he was hired as a Police Officer. In 2013, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and in 2016, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. During his 27-year career, he has worked in many specialty assignments including Canine Handler, Field Training Officer, Field Evidence Technician, Bicycle Officer, Traffic Investigator, Life Support Instructor, and Mobile Field Force member. The Milpitas Police Department would like to congratulate Lieutenant Torrez and the thousands of residents who have communicated with him to make this award possible. The community support for our social media program has been tremendous, and it embodies our philosophy of “in partnership with our community.”
Press Release By: Lieutenant Jared Hernandez
Date/Time: July 31, 2018; 11:00 AM
