Matthew Charland was hired as a Cypress Police Officer in July 2011. He previously served for eight years as a United States Marine Corps Reservist, completing various assignments that included a five-month deployment to Iraq. He was also a 3-year veteran of the Costa Mesa Police Department, and a graduate of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Academy.
During his tenure, Matt has worked as a detective and served as a DEA Task Force Officer. His current assignments include: Patrol Officer, West County S.W.A.T. Operator, Homeless Liaison Officer, Field Training Officer, and Officer-in-Charge, which is a key support position to the shift sergeant.
Matt’s dedication to the organization is demonstrated through his participation with events such as Shop with a Cop, Tip-A-Cop, Drug Take Back Day, Special Olympics Torch Run, National Night Out, Open House, and the Cypress Community Festival.
Matt, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Long Beach, has earned his Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced P.O.S.T. certificates. He was recently recognized as the Police Department’s Employee of the Quarter for his willingness to assist others, work ethic, and dedication. After serving three years on a narcotics task force, Matt brought with him a wealth of experience as he transitioned to patrol. He displayed admirable peer leadership by encouraging his shift to assume a zero-tolerance approach to narcotic violations in problem areas.
Matt is admired by his peers and supervisors for his eagerness to lend a hand, the quality of his work, and the positive manner in which he performs his duties. He has received letters of commendation and appreciation from citizens, supervisors, other agencies, and the Chief of Police for his commitment to the community, professionalism, and dedication to service.
Officer Matthew Charland is a valued member of the Cypress Police Department and certainly deserves recognition as the 2017 Officer of the Year.