New chief reinstates officers’ promotions

Seven Chula Vista police officers whose controversial promotions were rescinded two months ago have been reinstated to their higher ranks by new Police Chief David Bejarano.

Police Department officials announced the promotions yesterday, and police union president Buddy Magor confirmed that they are the same officers who were elevated in rank in July by former Chief Rick Emerson and demoted by City Manager Jim Sandoval the same week.

At the time, Sandoval said he had given express orders that the new chief should be the one to make promotions and that, as city manager, he had to personally approve any new hires or changes in pay because of budget constraints.

Emerson, who had announced his retirement in April, said he followed protocol in making the promotions. He quit rather than rescind them, and the police union later filed a grievance with the Human Resources Department objecting to the demotions.

Magor said he is pleased with Bejarano’s decision.

“We obviously support his decision,” Magor said. “Our dismay is still with the city manager.”

Sandoval said he also supports Bejarano’s decision.

“I’m happy for all the individuals,” he said. “I’m sure they deserved it. I always thought the new chief should be the one to make decisions on promotions.”

Officers Dan Peak, Martin Bolger and Chris Kelley were promoted to the rank of sergeant. Bartt Benjamin, Brandi Winslow and David Beatty were promoted to detective.

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