CLEARLAKE, Calif. – The Clearlake Police Department and the Clearlake City Council honored Detective Sgt. Nick Bennett and wished him well in his retirement after 51 years in law enforcement.

The recognition for Bennett's decades of service took place during last week's council meeting.

“Sgt. Bennett has devoted his career to improving public safety and served dutifully and with distinction for 51 years,” Mayor Denise Loustalot said. “(He) has provided invaluable guidance and support to his department and administration over his remarkable tenure as a peace officer.”

Bennett began his career in law enforcement in 1964 when he joined the South San Francisco Police Department.

He was promoted to sergeant with that agency in 1970.

In 1978 he joined the Broadmoor Police Department and, in 1980, he went on to serve the State University Police followed by East Alto Police Department in 1985.

Bennett joined the ranks of the Clearlake Police Department in 1996.

He and his wife, Teresa, live in Clearlake.

Email reporter Denise Rockenstein at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .