Jose Rivera

Dynamic and results-driven Police Sergeant with extensive experience at the Kensington Police Department. Expert in incident management and crisis intervention, successfully enhancing public safety through effective policy enforcement and community engagement. Proven ability to lead teams and conduct thorough investigations, ensuring compliance and fostering trust within the community.

• Brazilian Jujitsu Black Belt

• Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) instructor responsible for training officers in crisis intervention techniques to effectively manage encounters with individuals experiencing mental health crises. Provided instruction on de-escalation strategies, recognizing signs of mental illness, and utilizing appropriate communication techniques to reduce the need for force. Conducted scenario-based training to enhance officers' ability to assess situations, ensure public and officer safety, and connect individuals with appropriate mental health resources. Collaborated with mental health professionals, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies to improve crisis response and promote compassionate policing. Dedicated to enhancing officer preparedness, reducing use-of-force incidents, and fostering positive interactions between law enforcement and the community.

• A sixteen and a half (16.5) year assignment with the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff - Special Weapons & Tactics - Hostage Negotiations Team responsible for leading crisis negotiations in high-risk situations, including hostage rescues, armed barricades, and suicidal individuals. Provided leadership and strategic oversight to the negotiation team, coordinating with SWAT operators, command staff, and mental health professionals to de-escalate volatile incidents. Developed and executed negotiation strategies, leveraging advanced communication techniques, psychological tactics, and rapport-building to achieve peaceful resolutions. Conducted training for negotiators and first responders, ensuring preparedness for crisis incidents. Authored after-action reports and debriefings to improve future response tactics. Committed to preserving life, minimizing risks, and ensuring the safe resolution of critical incidents through expert negotiation and crisis management skills.

• Selected to Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Peer Support Team, providing emotional and professional support to fellow deputies facing personal or job-related stress. Served as a confidential resource for officers coping with critical incidents, mental health challenges, and workplace stressors. Assisted in crisis intervention, offering guidance on stress management, trauma recovery, and wellness resources. Facilitated peer support training, debriefings, and outreach programs to promote officer well-being and resilience. Worked closely with mental health professionals, chaplains, and departmental leadership to ensure deputies received necessary support while maintaining confidentiality and trust.