LAKEPORT, Calif. — The Lakeport Police Department has welcomed three new sworn personnel, among them the first woman to hold the rank of sergeant in the agency’s 135-year history.

The new department members are Sgt. Sarah Hardisty, and officers Jonatan Moreno and Austin Eldred, all of whom took their oaths earlier this week.

Hardisty, a 16-year veteran of local law enforcement, is the newest sergeant, joining sergeants Ryan Cooley and Andrew Welter.

She previously worked as a deputy sheriff for the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and as an officer for the Clearlake Police Department.

Lakeport Police Chief Brad Rasmussen said Hardisty is so far the highest-ranking female officer in the department, which has served the city since its founding in 1888.

Rasmussen said Eldred attended the police academy and had prior experience with the Ukiah Police Department.

Moreno also attended the police academy and had previously served as a correctional deputy in Lake County, Rasmussen said.

All three new hires are residents of Lake County. “We are proud they have chosen to work for our agency,” said Rasmussen.

Over the past few years the Lakeport Police Department has struggled to keep staff, a challenge not unique just to that agency but part of a nationwide trend.

However, with the arrival of Hardisty, Eldred and Moreno, the total sworn officers on the police force is up to full staffing with 14 officers to serve the city of about 5,000 residents.

Lakeport Police’s 14 sworn officers include two reserve officers, along with two recruits who are attending the police academy.

In addition, the department has a K-9 officer, Olin, a German shepherd who is partnered with Sgt. Welter.