SCHOOL SAFETY advocate & leader

As Chief of Police, I am deeply committed to the safety and security of our schools and the well-being of our youth. I led the first Safe Schools Initiative in the Parish, establishing a comprehensive safety and response program for our city schools. This initiative brought together city and parish agencies to enhance readiness and expanded our School Resource Officer presence to four schools, ensuring that we are always prepared to respond to any threats on our kids' campuses.

However, safety isn’t just about being reactive—it’s about building trust and relationships every day. My officers work tirelessly, whether on campuses or in our neighborhoods, to form connections and serve as mentors to our youth. We believe that every child in Gonzales should know that we care and that we are here to protect and serve them.

The Safe Schools Initiative was a three-year project that involved extensive planning, training, and exercises, engaging all stakeholders in the process. The Gonzales Police Department became one of the first in the state to undertake a collaboration and planning effort of this magnitude, positioning us at the forefront of blended task force responses with fire, EMS, and law enforcement. Through this initiative and our daily commitment to community engagement, we are not only protecting our children but also fostering a safer, stronger Gonzales.