Editor’s Note: This is part of an ongoing series highlighting staff members of the Sedona Police Department.
Name: Chris Stevens
Title: Sergeant
Years with SPD: 15.5 years
Q: What inspired you to become a police officer or dispatcher?
As a kid growing up in Northern California, I was always good at hide-and-seek. I wanted a career that allowed me to be away from a desk, and after interviewing with Sedona Police Department I knew this was the place for me to be.
Q: Do you have any prior public safety experience? If so, where?
No. Like a lot of people, I watched crime shows on TV. FYI: Real-life policing is not how it’s portrayed on TV.
Q: What was it about Sedona Police Department that made you apply?
The location of the city. I was looking for a place to live that provided outdoor activities.
Q: What do you enjoy most about serving the Sedona community?
The people we come in contact with throughout our days.
Q: What are your daily or weekly responsibilities?
I oversee a squad of three officers and one to two community service aids who patrol the city, and I manage the Field Training Program where officers train new hires on the road.
Q: What hobbies do you have away from work?
Garage Golf. I call it Garage Golf because I’ve set up a makeshift range in my garage to hit golf balls and compete in online tournaments.
Q: What’s your all-time favorite movie?
I own two movies on DVD — “Tombstone” and “The Natural.”