I started my career as an emergency medical technician (EMT) and worked for a nationally accredited ambulance service for several years. After responding to calls and being on the scene with officers from the Lancaster City Bureau of Police, I knew that I wanted to do their job. After I passed the initial testing, my first application went straight to the Lancaster City Bureau of Police. Working with my field training officer, I was affirmed that I made the right career choice. Being an officer allows me to grow professionally and personally. Every day, I get satisfaction from positive interactions with the community and from helping people solve their problems.
It is a privilege to serve in the community that I grew up in, connected to residents through shared experiences, and celebrate the successes with those who call Lancaster City home. In my role as a Lancaster City Police Officer, it has not been easy, but the challenges that I have experienced have filled me with a greater appreciation for the work, and even greater respect for the residents. The continual opportunities to work hand in hand with citizens committed to making our city a safe, united, and inclusive place to live, have been more than rewarding. I look forward to future opportunities to interact with people in a positive and productive way while building relationships that will serve as a foundation for even greater work to be done in our community. There has only ever been one choice for me as it relates to a career as a police officer, Lancaster City, my home.
Being the first male in my family to not join the armed forces, and one of the first to attend college, I always had a yearning to serve. In 2003 I graduated from Millersville University and while looking for jobs, the opportunity to serve as a police officer came about due to a close friend’s father working as a Sergeant for the Lancaster City Bureau of Police. In 2005 I was hired as a police officer and I have to say it has changed my life for the better. Like any career, my time at the Lancaster City Bureau of Police has had its high points and low points, but the benefits of the good times far surpass any negative experiences. During my tenure, I have been fortunate to serve as a patrol officer, school resource officer, hostage negotiator, and detective. In these positions I have traveled throughout the country and region, networking with Law Enforcement professionals, at all levels of experience and ranks, and one thing I can say is that the Lancaster City Bureau of Police puts the highest standards of accountability and professionalism on its employees. As a Black man in this profession, I am often looked to for understanding. Both from those within my profession and from other people of color in the community. At times the burden can be stressful, but anything worth doing should be difficult. I feel it is my duty to dispel bias and to create empathy and understanding between the community I serve, and my profession. I am proud to be a Black man in law enforcement. I feel that the Lancaster City Bureau of Police gives me the best opportunity to help my profession move forward, be a mentor to the community, and reach my full potential as a person.