Initially hired by the city as a lifeguard in 1989, Armijo joined the OPD as a sworn officer in 1994 and was promoted through the ranks as sergeant, lieutenant and, ultimately, captain, a role in which he directed each of the department's three divisions -- support operations, investigations and patrol. Mayor Esther Sanchez said Armijo's ``community orientation and thorough knowledge of the Police Department make him an excellent choice to lead our department into the future.'' "I am proud to have an Oceanside native leading our Police Department,'' Sanchez said. "Born, raised and having attended public schools in Oceanside, Chief Armijo truly appreciates our diverse community -- its cultural neighborhoods and families. He is deeply committed to improving police-community relations, having had the unique opportunity to connect with all facets of our city throughout his career.''