NEWMAN — In an emotional moment during the May 27 Newman City Council meeting, Police Chief Randy Richardson welcomed a new officer to the department and promoted one of his earliest hires to the rank of lieutenant — milestones he said were especially meaningful as he prepares to leave the agency.

Richardson paused several times while addressing the council, saying the ceremony marked a symbolic passing of the torch.

“I’m the past and I’m leaving, and I’m getting to welcome the future of the department tonight, and that means a lot to me,” he told the council.

Officer Destiny Arroyo, who grew up in Kerman, was sworn in as Newman’s newest police officer. She earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a concentration in law enforcement from California State University, Stanislaus, and graduated from the San Joaquin Delta College Police Academy. She previously served with the Modesto Police Department.

Arroyo was joined by her parents, stepparents, siblings, boyfriend and extended family as she took the oath of office.

Richardson also promoted Ashley Williams, one of the first officers he swore in after becoming chief. Williams joined the department as a reserve officer in 2011, became full‑time in 2013 and rose through the ranks to corporal in 2016 and sergeant in 2021.

Williams graduated from the Delta Police Academy, Class 29‑10, and has held a wide range of assignments, including field training officer, K‑9 handler, K‑9 unit sergeant, public information officer, taser instructor and investigator with the Stanislaus County Auto Theft Task Force. She also served as family liaison after the death of Cpl. Ronil Singh.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management and a master’s degree in organizational leadership, both from Union Institute and University.

Richardson highlighted Williams’ contributions to the department, including securing $142,000 in Office of Traffic Safety grants, obtaining two electric motorcycles through a zero‑emissions grant and authoring several ordinances and staff reports.

For Richardson, the ceremony marked a personal milestone as he prepares to step away from the department.

“Ashley was one of my very first officers that I swore in,” he said. “So getting to do this in my very last meeting is very special to me.”

Both Arroyo and Williams received congratulations from the council and audience as they stepped into their new roles.