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GPD promotes two to rank of sergeant
GPD promotions
The Gustine Police Department celebrated the promotions Sgt. Greg Gilstrap, pictured with his family, and Sgt. Francisco Martinez. - photo by Colby Gomes

The Gustine Police Department got to celebrate an important milestone on March 5 with the promotion of two sergeants.

A pinning ceremony was held at City Hall for Sgt. Francisco Martinez and Sgt. Gregory Gilstrap.

“The sergeants position is the most important to a police department,” said Gustine Police Chief Ruben Chavez.

Martinez began his career in law enforcement in 2002 with the Oakland Police Department, where he worked patrol and narcotics investigations. In 2009, he received his Private Investigator License and started his own business.

Martinez made the decision to return to law enforcement in 2016 and was hired by the Gustine Police Department. He was promoted to corporal in 2019.

Martinez has worked patrol and as the school resource officer. He currently works as a first-line supervisor and is responsible for scheduling, report review, fleet and equipment management, and being the on-call supervisor. He also is currently assigned as a field training officer and as the FTO coordinator.   

“He has a great relationship with the community as everyone knows him and often ask for him personally when they need to speak with the police department,” said Chavez.

Gilstrap started his law enforcement career as a Police Explorer with the Turlock Police Department from 2011 to 2013 and became a police cadet with the department in 2016. He was hired by the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office as a jail deputy and worked there until 2018. In 2020, he was hired by the Gustine Police Department as an officer and was promoted to corporal 2023. 

Gilstrap has worked patrol and currently serves as the department’s Tobacco Grant Officer. He is also assigned as a first-line supervisor, as the Ranger Master, Taser Instructor, and field training officer. Gilstrap is also responsible for report review and being the on-call supervisor.  

“Greg was awarded the 2023 Gustine Police Officer of the Year and has received two MADD DUI awards,” Chavez said. “Like Sgt. Martinez, he is also dedicated to the Gustine Police Department and the Gustine community.”