Richard Encinas
Phoenix
Summary
Accomplished law enforcement professional with expertise in evidence collection, security operations management, and cross-functional coordination. Strengthens community trust through effective communication and leadership, while ensuring compliance and accountability in dynamic, high-pressure environments. Proven ability to make real-time decisions that enhance operational effectiveness.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Detective
Mesa Police Department
Mesa
01.2025 - Current
- Conducted comprehensive background investigations that ensured compliance with regulatory and organizational standards, supporting informed decision-making.
- Prepared detailed reports and maintained accurate documentation for command staff review, facilitating accountability and transparency.
- Coordinated with internal teams to streamline operational processes, enhancing collaboration and effectiveness.
Public Information Officer
Mesa Police Department
Mesa
01.2021 - 01.2025
- Coordinated real-time communication and responses across multiple units, enhancing overall operational effectiveness.
- Acted as primary point of contact during critical incidents and high-visibility operations, ensuring clear and timely communication to stakeholders.
- Supported operational efficiency during large-scale events and emergency situations while addressing public concerns professionally to reinforce trust.
Recruiter
Mesa Police Department
Mesa
01.2017 - 01.2021
- Coordinated recruitment events, managing scheduling, staffing, and logistics to ensure seamless execution.
- Mentored candidates through structured processes, enhancing their readiness for roles and fostering professional growth.
- Represented department at public events, upholding professionalism and service standards to promote organizational values.
Patrol Officer
Mesa Police Department
Mesa
01.1996 - 01.2017
- Responded to emergency and non-emergency incidents to uphold public safety and community trust.
- Conducted proactive monitoring to identify and mitigate risks or hazards in the community.
- Delivered high-level service while engaging with diverse populations to foster positive relationships.
FTO Administrative Officer
Mesa Police Department
Mesa
01.2001 - 01.2007
- Managed schedules and staffing assignments, coordinating real-time operational adjustments to meet mission demands.
- Supervised and mentored 200+ personnel in structured and field environments to enhance team readiness.
- Maintained compliance with policies, procedures, and state standards while conducting evaluations and recommending corrective actions.
Field Training Officer (FTO)
Mesa Police Department
Mesa
01.1999 - 01.2001
- Supervised and evaluated personnel in active field environments to ensure operational effectiveness.
- Coached and provided feedback to personnel, reinforcing safety and performance standards.
- Adapted to dynamic, high-pressure situations, demonstrating leadership and decision-making skills.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Justice Studies
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZGraduate-Level Coursework - Criminal Justice
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZSkills
Certification
- Arizona POST Certified Instructor
- Certified Peace Officer – State of Arizona
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Certified
Accomplishments
- Supervised, trained, and mentored 200+ personnel, ensuring compliance with policies and performance standards
- Managed and responded to critical incidents and high-pressure situations, maintaining safety and operational control
- Coordinated large-scale operations and public-facing events, ensuring smooth execution and communication
- Produced detailed investigative and incident reports used for command-level decision-making
- Built strong relationships with internal teams and the public, enhancing trust and operational effectiveness
Leadership Affiliations
- Vice President – National Association of Field Training Officers (AZ Chapter)
- Member – American Society of Law Enforcement Trainers
- Founding Member – Mesa Police Cultural Diversity Team
- Board Member – Mesa Police Benevolent Fund
Timeline
Detective
Mesa Police Department
01.2025 - Current
Public Information Officer
Mesa Police Department
01.2021 - 01.2025
Recruiter
Mesa Police Department
01.2017 - 01.2021
FTO Administrative Officer
Mesa Police Department
01.2001 - 01.2007
Field Training Officer (FTO)
Mesa Police Department
01.1999 - 01.2001
Patrol Officer
Mesa Police Department
01.1996 - 01.2017
Bachelor of Science - Justice Studies
Arizona State University
Graduate-Level Coursework - Criminal Justice
Grand Canyon University