FOLSOM—The Folsom Police Department bid farewell to one of its most dedicated officers Thursday afternoon as Officer Daren Prociw walked out of the station for the last time, closing a career totally more than 30 years built on service, compassion, and commitment to the community he called home.
Just after 3 p.m., officers lined the front steps of the police station in a traditional gauntlet, raising their hands in salute as Prociw emerged from the doors for his final shift’s end. Members of the Folsom Fire Department and city staff joined in, a gesture of respect that reflected not just his years in uniform, but the lasting connections he forged across the city.
The traditional ceremony, known better as a “gauntlet” in law enforcement terms, reached its poignant moment when Interim Police Chief Randy Ulibarri prompted Prociw over the radio for his final sign-off. The responding central dispatcher’s voice carried a message across the network for all to hear and reflect upon, noting the many milestones and accolades of his career…