My Story: Faith, Service, and Recovery

I am a second-generation LAPD officer, following in my father’s footsteps. I joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1996 at the age of 21 and retired in July 2025 after 29 years of service. Throughout my career, I worked exclusively in uniform and in the field. I began as a patrol officer, served as a motor officer for approximately 16 years, and later worked as a patrol sergeant until my retirement. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to serve throughout the entire City of Los Angeles. During my time with LAPD, I was a member of the department’s Peer Support Program and served as a confidential call-out contact for the Addiction Prevention Unit. In that capacity, I responded to officers experiencing personal crises and helped connect them with appropriate rehabilitation facilities when needed. I also served for a time as a peer support member with FRSN.

My personal life has included its own challenges and blessings. I was previously married and have a 23-year-old daughter. My current wife is also an LAPD officer, and together we have two children, ages 8 and 12, whom I am blessed to spend more time caring for in retirement.I have been sober for 18 years, God willing, reaching 19 years this December. My personal experience with alcoholism and addiction has given me a firsthand understanding of the struggles they bring, the damage they can cause, and the consequences that can follow. But I also know the other side: the freedom and blessings of sobriety, the daily work required to maintain it, and the incredible value of that hard work.

Recently, I was asked to speak at my church and share my testimony. I am also involved in a mentorship program through my church, supporting newly hired Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies.

Today, I have the privilege of using both my professional experience and my personal journey to encourage and support others. I know what it is like to struggle, and I know what is possible through recovery. My life today is far beyond anything I could have imagined for myself.

Through God and Alcoholics Anonymous, I have found a life filled with purpose, gratitude, and hope. My story is proof that no matter how difficult the journey may be, recovery is possible, lives can change, and there is always hope.