[OffThePress] The I-Team has learned that the Belmont police officer arrested for rape last week had an arrest for domestic violence several years ago, before he became an officer.
That’s raising questions about whether he should have been hired at the Belmont Police Department in the first place.
We have new information on his previous arrest and his immigration status. The I-Team confirmed Felipe Gomes is not a U.S. citizen but has a work permit, so he is allowed to serve as a police officer in this state under a recent law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
Just four months ago, Belmont Police Chief Ken Stenquist presented his new recruits, including 35-year-old Gomes.
“He was in the Brazilian Air Force and part of their Air Force Police,” Chief Stenquist said. “He was a full-time police soldier and left that position when he moved to the United States. He enjoys practicing jiu jitsu and attending church when he’s not working.”
Last week, Redwood City police arrested Gomes at the Belmont police headquarters on penal code 261 (a) (1).
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