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. 

The Tulare County DA has formally filed charges against Officer Garcia and will be moving forward with criminal court proceedings.

Parallel to the CHP’s criminal investigation, a separate Internal Affairs investigation was initiated by Tulare Police Department. Per protocol, Officer Garcia has been on paid administrative leave since the date of the incident.

Chief Ynclan’s statement:

“The Tulare Police Department wishes to clearly indicate its commitment to full disclosure and transparency with regard to reports of potential officer misconduct. All individuals shall be held accountable for their actions.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Sgt. Ed Hinojosa at 559-684-4249.