From Staff Reports and the Apopka Police Department
The Apopka Police Department added a new officer to its force on Thursday at a City Hall swearing-in ceremony officiated by APD Chief Michael McKinley.
Officer Christian "Chris" Cruz, 29, was born and raised in Puerto Rico.
Cruz graduated from Thomas Alva Edison School in 2011. He continued his education and graduated from The University of Puerto Rico in 2016 with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting.
After graduation, Cruz became an Accountant, working for Travel Planners International for five years. While an accountant, Cruz felt the need to give back to his community, so he decided to leave accounting and become a Law Enforcement Officer.
Cruz graduated from the Valencia School of Public Safety this year. His hobbies include modifying his vehicle, studying Japanese and American history, and watching football.
"As a kid, I wanted to be a cop," Cruz said when asked why he chose a career in law enforcement. "However, while growing up, I took an interest in cars and video games and became an Accountant with no direction. Luckily, certain events occurred, and the reputation of Law Enforcement as a whole came into question. I took this career change as my call and enrolled myself in the Police Academy to help restore that positive reputation."
Cruz brings the APD police force up to 107 sworn officers.
“We are excited to have Officer Cruz join the ranks of the Apopka Police Department," said McKinley. "He deeply desires to be a law enforcement officer and serve our community.”
