Tulare Police Chief Fred Ynclan makes statement on officer's arrest

On June 23rd, 2022 Tulare Police Department Dispatch received a call from a concerned citizen regarding a Tulare Police Officer who was observed parked and asleep in his marked patrol vehicle. 

The officer was identified by his unit number and determined to be Officer Frank Garcia, who has been employed with this department for two and half years.

When the supervisor met with Garcia it was determined that he demonstrated signs of being under the influence of an alcoholic beverage. At that point, to ensure full transparency and to avoid bias, the California Highway Patrol was contacted to conduct a DUI investigation. 

After the completion of the investigation, CHP arrested Officer Garcia for driving under the influence, and later to be issued a citation to appear in court. California Highway Patrol submitted their case to the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office. 

Fred Ynclan named Tulare Police Chief

Tulare police Captain Fred Ynclan was selected to be the city's new police chief.

The move was announced at a Tulare City Council meeting, where City Manager Marc Mondell described a process where they looked for candidates with strong moral character, honesty, trustworthiness, integrity, and cool under pressure.

"He's proven himself to be the candidate that can remain calm and collected under pressure, which is critical for this position and for the department," Mondell said. "He has steadily risen through the ranks of the department for a high level of success. He has served as a captain in the police department since 2015."

Ynclan addressed the council after the announcement, which was met by applause.