Headshot of Rickey Hawkins II

Rickey Hawkins II

Corporal/SVU Detective, West Covina Police Department (CA)

During my 18-year law enforcement career I have had the opportunity to work many assignments. Some of those assignments include patrol officer, motor officer, Fraud Investigator, Internal Affairs Investigator, Explorer Advisor, Field Training Officer, and Special Victims Unit Detective.

What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?

I enjoyed the program and found it very relevant to current law enforcement. It’s not enough to just have education and continual training, but those things must be relevant.

Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?

LEPSL stood out to me because I could see the program was up to date with issues facing law enforcement. I could see how I would be able to immediately put into practice what I was learning.

What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?

My main concern was balancing work, family, and school.

How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?

I tested for Corporal while I was in the program. The knowledge I learned allowed me to be confident and competent during my oral panel. I was the first Corporal promoted off of the list.

What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?

I would tell any prospective student to jump in feet first and with an open mind. Some of the topics discussed in the course will challenge some long-standing beliefs.

What was your favorite LEPSL course?

Public Safety Law in a Dynamic World

What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?

I was able to balance being a married father or 4, coaching multiple youth sports, test prepping for the promotional process at work.

How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?

I was able to stay focused because the information was current and valuable. I knew if would help me in my career.

LEPSL Graduating Class:

2023

Capt. Tim Gately, Redmond Police Department
MS-LEPSL Alumnus

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