The Stockton Police Department was first established in August of 1850. For the first 40 years after the department was established, no uniforms were worn. When uniforms were introduced in the 1880's, they were little more than black suits. It wasn't until 1912 that anything resembling a patch came into use.

The first cloth patch, designated for Red Cross training or traffic duty personnel only, was added in the 1930's. In 1955, the first patch for all members of the police force was adopted. It matched the first door shield and featured the Port of Stockton in its center, woven in blue, gold, and brown thread, surrounded by the words "City of Stockton." The border of the patch was the white outline of a police shield, sewn onto black material. This patch was worn only on the left shoulder.

In 1959, the K-9 Corps was organized. A few years later, a special patch was made to be worn on the right shoulder of the uniform of officers assigned a canine partner. The insignia had the same border as the departmental patch but included the legends "Stockton" and "K-9." A German Shepard was represented in its center. The use of this patch was discontinued in 1975 when officers were required to wear the departmental patch on both shoulders.

Twenty years after the original patch made its debut, the present departmental patch was adopted. It is a blue shield with gold trim and the words "Stockton Police." In its center is the City seal, with a depiction of a Tule Elk. Behind the Tule Elk is the Delta waterway for which Stockton is famous.

California's most inland seaport, Stockton was founded by Charles M. Weber. This lively, progressive city was incorporated on July 23, 1850. Stockton's busy port contributed to its reputation as a mecca for agriculture. The Great Valley became known as the "Breadbasket of the World," and the Port of Stockton was on its way to becoming one of the most significant inland ports in the country. Stockton and its surrounding communities, with a warm climate, diverse culture, economic opportunity, and friendly environment, have prompted exceptional growth over the past several decades