Black History Month Spotlight
Meet Officer Christopher Senior of the San Diego Police Department. As we commemorate Black History Month, Officer Senior shares his journey from Jamaica to the San Diego Police Department, his passion for bridging communities, and a heartwarming moment that reminds him why he serves.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background? Where did you grow up?
I was born in Saint Catherine Parish, Jamaica. I immigrated to the United States at age six and was raised in New Haven, Connecticut. In high school, I received numerous state awards for indoor and outdoor track and field. I was also the Captain of the Varsity Football Team. “Go Bulldogs”. While competing as a student-athlete, I held part-time employment with the local YMCA. After high school, I was accepted into American International College (AIC), where I was honored with a full scholarship to play football. Upon graduation, I was employed by the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department.
In 2007, I joined the ranks of the New Haven Police Department as a sworn officer. During my career with NHPD, I was fortunate enough to have been assigned to patrol the same neighborhoods that raised me. After 20+ years of dealing with the harsh New England winters, I decided I needed some sun and palm trees in my life.
What inspired you to become a police officer, and what led you to the San Diego Police Department? How long have you served with SDPD?
While in the pre-teen phase of life, I was encouraged by members of my community to join several youth-based programs such as D.A.R.E, P.A.L, and the Junior Police. The positive interactions I had with the police officers who oversaw these programs had a profound influence on my future goal of becoming a police officer. During my 12 years of servicing the community of San Diego, I’m honored to have been a member of Western Patrol, Western Beach Team, San Diego Enforcers, and SWAT – Primary Response Team. Over the last 4 years, I’ve been assigned to the Backgrounds and Recruiting Unit.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and culture of Black individuals throughout history. This brief period of reflection is a prime example of how we can make an immense impact in our communities if we are goal-oriented.
Which leaders—past or present—have inspired you the most, either in your career or personal life?
Although my mother is probably the most inspirational person in my life, I would have to say the “leader” that was inspirational to my career was Sgt Patrick Redding, who served as my advisor for the NHPD-Board of Youth Police Commissioners. Sgt Redding, who was eventually promoted to Captain, was a positive influence on my career path.
How can the community and our police continue building trust and understanding?
I use my role as a recruiter to bridge cultural and social gaps, offering insights and understanding that come from shared life experiences. Hopefully, when community members see someone who reflects their background and identity in a role of authority, it can help humanize the badge, making us feel more approachable and relatable.
The more we humanize the badge and encourage our community members to pursue a career in law enforcement the more trust and understanding we will have amongst the police and the community. My grandmother always said, “Treat others how you want to be treated.” What better way to do that than to join your local police agency? Take on a challenge. Make a difference today!
Can you share a moment in your career that made you feel especially proud or reaffirmed why you do this work?
As a recruiter, I have had the privilege of being a part of the hiring process for hundreds if not, thousands of applicants per year. Some of my proudest moments are watching them develop as candidates through the hiring process, successfully graduating from the Police Academy, eventually making it through phase training, and going off on their own as functional police officers.
Outside of your role as an officer, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
My leisure time is usually spent with my friends and family. I enjoy being active outdoors and participating in activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and lounging in the backyard. In years past, I thought of myself as an avid traveler.
Can you share a lighthearted or unexpected moment on the job that still brings a smile to your face?
As a recruiter, we are required to schedule and attend numerous events throughout the year. Last year, we were approved to attend the San Diego Rodeo at Petco with Cowboy Hats adorned. As we stood next to our recruiting table, greeting and smiling at passing spectators, a young boy and his mother strolled by holding hands. As he looked towards me, his eyes lit up. He immediately detached from his mother and walked over to me. He stood directly in front of me with his little black cowboy hat and proceeded to salute. I gave him a proper salute back and his mother asked if she could take a photo of us. His mother later told me that he wants to be a police officer when he grows up.
My hope is that this small positive interaction will have a lasting effect on this little boy’s life.
