A Journey Through Law Enforcement: Motivations and Retirement

Law enforcement is a career that requires a special mindset and dedication. Many are drawn to it for a variety of reasons, including the opportunity to make a difference in their community, support their families, and work in a challenging but rewarding field. Joining the force was the intention behind my college career, and while my initial plans included attending college and working for the Federal Government, the profession quickly captured my interest in ways I never could have anticipated.

Motivations and Early Career

When I first joined the police force, my intention was to support my family, attend college, and earn a degree in languages—a degree that would subsequently enable me to work for the Federal Government. After working a few years on the job, I quickly became immersed in the challenges and benefits of the profession. The career proved to be anything but routine, and I found it both interesting and rewarding. Over the course of 26 years, I felt that the work was well-spent.

The notion of working for the city to pay for my senior year was a compelling thought, and it led me to give the police career a try. As I delved into the challenges and opportunities of police work, I found that I genuinely enjoyed it. The freedom to work independently, without the constant supervision of a supervisor, and the trust placed in me by my colleagues were particularly appealing. This early recognition of my enthusiasm and aptitude for the job paved the way for my 26-year career in law enforcement.

The Decision to Retire

After serving for 26 years and approaching the infamous 30-year mark in California, I encountered a significant hurdle. In California, once a law enforcement officer reaches 30 years of service in a participating agency, their retirement plan can no longer be increased. This presented a challenging situation for me. Adding to the stress, I had experienced some horrific crime scenes, involving three officer-involved shootings, which took a toll on me.

The culmination of these factors, coupled with my advancing age and the fact that I was assisting my family by working, ultimately led me to consider retirement. My daughters asked why I couldn't stay home, to which I had no convincing answer. The moment of truth came when I was getting ready to change into my uniform. On seeing a photo of my family inside my locker, I made a decisive choice. The following day, I typed out a letter of retirement and handed it to the Watch Commander before leaving the department permanently.

Beyond the Badge

My 50-year journey in law enforcement was a rich tapestry of experiences. I spent 18 years as a Forest Patrol Deputy, engaging in search and rescue, emergency management, and routine patrol duties. Each day brought new challenges and involved encounters with people from various parts of the world and every walk of life. The diverse nature of the work made each day unpredictable, but also profoundly rewarding.

Yet, even with such a fulfilling career, it was ultimately the realization that I could no longer contribute fully to the department and my community that pushed me to make the decision to retire. The last five years have been spent adjusting to a new life in Idaho Falls, focusing on my family and personal interests.

Law enforcement is not just a job; it's a calling. It demands a unique mindset, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. For those who cannot commit themselves fully to the challenges and stress that come with the profession, it may not be the right career. My journey has shown that there is immense satisfaction in the work, but it also carries its own set of pressures.