I started my career in law enforcement in 1999 with the California Department of Fish and Game. In 2001, I moved to the Calistoga Police Department in Napa County, California, and worked there for over four years. In 2005, my family and I relocated to Southern California, where my wife and I grew up. I then began my career with the Claremont Police Department in Los Angeles County in 2005 and have proudly served there since.
I have enjoyed a variety of assignments within the Claremont Police Department, including Officer, Corporal, Field Training Officer, Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Administrative Services Bureau Sergeant, Problem-Oriented Policing Team Sergeant, and Lieutenant assigned as a Watch Commander. As of November 2021, I was designated as the Support Services Supervisor overseeing the Records, Dispatch, and Jail bureaus.
Additionally, I have several collateral duties, such as TASER Instructor, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Baton Instructor, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Mobile Emergency Operations Center team member, Claremont Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Coordinator, Los Angeles County – Area D Emergency Response liaison for Claremont PD, Explorer POST Coordinator, Background Investigator, and Community Patrol Volunteer Coordinator.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
The thought of being an ambassador for the University of San Diego Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership program resonated with me. Having graduated from the LEPSL program in May of 2024, I have seen firsthand the high level of professionalism and commitment to excellence. The LEPSL program boasts a faculty of experienced law enforcement professionals and academics who bring a wealth of real-world experience and academic rigor to their teaching. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise ensure students receive a well-rounded and practical education.
As an ambassador to the LEPSL program, I can give back by providing feedback and personal insight into what to expect in the program. Furthermore, I can help recruit new students, mentor current students, and contribute to the ongoing success and reputation of the LEPSL program.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
My decision to enroll in the LEPSL program was significantly influenced by my colleagues’ recommendations. They spoke highly of the faculty’s expertise, the camaraderie among the students, and the overall experience in the program. While I did consider other programs, none could match the LEPSL program’s appeal.
The LEPSL program distinguishes itself through its renowned reputation, its focus on leadership and ethics, and its attention to current issues related to law enforcement and public safety leadership. These features, along with many others, ensure that the program provides a top-tier education and prepares students to be effective, ethical, and innovative leaders in law enforcement and public safety.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
Before starting the LEPSL graduate program, I had several concerns, including the time management needed to succeed in the program, the financial costs of the program, the need to create a work-life balance, and adjusting to the academic environment as I had been out of that atmosphere for several years. However, by addressing these concerns with my family, I was able to work through these challenges and set myself up for success in the LEPSL program.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
The LEPSL program at the University of San Diego helped me achieve my goals by enhancing my leadership skills, offering vast networking opportunities, increasing my knowledge and expertise, adding to my professional credibility, and contributing to my personal growth. These all helped ensure that I am well-prepared to succeed and lead effectively in law enforcement.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?
The best advice I can give prospective LEPSL applicants is to enroll now and not delay. The LEPSL program is well worth the time and money, and you will thoroughly enjoy the adventure!
What was your favorite part of the LEPSL program?
My favorite part of the LEPSL program was the camaraderie exhibited among my peers in the courses. This provided a supportive and collaborative environment that enhanced my learning experience. Regardless of rank, everyone could speak freely and provide first-hand knowledge of law enforcement leadership practices and pitfalls from their respective regions. Since the LEPSL program is an online format, I could gain valuable insight into how my peers managed law enforcement issues from across the United States and beyond.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
When I entered the LEPSL program, I had just been assigned as the Support Services Supervisor for my agency. In that role, I supervise the Records, Dispatch, and Jail Bureaus, and handle Public Record Requests. Additionally, I have two children that are busy with sports. My son plays water polo for a local Division 1 school, and my daughter plays on her Varsity water polo team at her high school. I attempted to attend as many games as possible and realized that the need to develop a LEPSL work-life balance was a must. However, this is easily achievable. Allow yourself the time to focus on your studies, but don’t forget to enjoy your life! Stay on top of your assignments, and the courses will be enjoyable.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
The courses are only seven weeks long, and they tend to move very quickly. This helped keep my interest level high and enabled me to adhere to the timelines needed to succeed in the program. I also found that it helped to develop friendships in the courses. This made the seven weeks more enjoyable, primarily through involvement in the weekly discussion board posts.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2024