Name: Catherine Beers
Title: Patrol Officer
Years with SPD: 2
Q: What inspired you to become a police officer?
My goal to become a police officer began in 2017 while in an upper level management position for a local restaurant where I had worked for many years. It was a reliable job that I was successful at. However, I felt I had a bigger story to create where I could be more impactful and effective — utilizing my customer service skills paired with my desire to make a difference in my community. I went on several ride-alongs with multiple officers and fell in love with what I could become with a little hard work.
Q: Do you have any prior public safety experience? If so, where?
I was given the opportunity to become a dispatcher at SPD for about six months, where I learned many valuable tools that have assisted me as an officer.
Q: What was it about Sedona Police Department that made you apply?
The SPD has a community-driven value system. Our department believes in continuous education and perpetual training with constant room for team growth and self-improvement. I couldn’t wait to work under a roof of like-minded people for a department that I respected.
Q: What do you enjoy most about serving the Sedona community?
The opportunity to educate. It’s not always about citations and apprehensions, like some may believe. We have the ability to change lives or help someone that’s down on their luck. We have the opportunity to change behavior and provide resources. We have a supportive chief and command staff, as well as city manager, city council and mayor who have officers and our community in best interest alike.
Q: What are your daily or weekly responsibilities?
In addition to taking emergency and non-emergency calls for service from the community for things such as domestic disturbances, ordinances, vehicle accidents, civil complaints and burglar alarms, I make daily area checks of public parks, trailheads, churches, etc. I perform extra patrols of businesses and neighborhoods within my assigned “beat.”
I love talking to people so I do as many field interviews as possible to get to know people; even if it’s just passing out a sticker to a kid at the park.
Speed enforcement and other civil traffic infractions are perpetual expectations. Reports are written daily for all contacts made and reportable offenses. Civil traffic court and misdemeanor/felony trials are also part of my duties.
Q: What hobbies do you have away from work?
I’m a runner, hunter, functional and decorative ceramicist, and I love food.
Q: What’s your all-time favorite movie?
“As Good As It Gets.”
