Everyday hundreds of people are shot in various forms; murder, assaults, suicides, unintentional shootings, and police shootings. Many of these individuals actually live, but have lifelong affects as a result of gun violence. Some continue to live with crippling wounds and medical bills.

I’m former law enforcement, an activist, and a victim of gun violence. I have children that I love dearly, when it comes to law enforcement I advise them with these precautions. If law enforcement ever approach you in an unethical way follow their orders and make a mental note of who the officers are; use your pen to fight back.

Every law enforcement officer in the community is not bad. Quite frankly, they should be treated with dignity and respect. However, this is my message to officers that are not good, if someone is breaking the law your first reaction shouldn’t be deadly force.

I know what they taught you in training, but you also have to know when to use your communication skills to de-escalate what you perceive to be a volatile situation. Last but not least, don’t apply for the job if you are afraid.When I was working in law enforcement, I de-escalated a lot of volatile situations. Through this book - my story - you will be guided through various scene of my life that includes family, love and my unbelievable experience as a gun violence victim.