Dr. Felix Martinez

Biography

Dr. Felix Martinez is a former Police Officer who served with the Riverdale Park Police Department, a role he assumed in June of 2020 with the primary objective of enhancing police-community relations. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Martinez has actively worked towards revitalizing these relations by becoming a voice for the community and actively participating in the Community Engagement Task Force within the department. Believing strongly in the transformative power of education, Dr. Martinez has dedicated himself to acquiring a vast array of academic qualifications, culminating in a remarkable expertise in the
field of law enforcement.

Dr. Martinez possesses a Bachelor of Arts degree in General Studies with a concentration in Crime and Criminology from Southern New Hampshire University. Building upon this foundation, he pursued a Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security and Criminal Justice Leadership from St. John's University, further expanding his knowledge and skills. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Dr. Martinez undertook a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, focusing specifically on the impact of the community policing model in a predominantly Latino neighborhood.

Dr. Martinez educational journey has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of law enforcement principles. His multifaceted career has seen him occupy various positions, each contributing to his comprehensive expertise. He has served as a Campus Security Assistant, a Campus Peace Officer, a Campus Police Sergeant, a Probation Officer, and a Correctional Officer. This diverse experience has shaped his perspective and provided him with invaluable insights into different facets of the criminal justice system.

Furthermore, Dr. Martinez is a national facilitator for the Managing Bias Project, an initiative spearheaded by the Department of Justice COPS office. In this capacity, he guides and instructs law enforcement personnel on effectively managing biases, fostering a more equitable and unbiased approach to
policing. Recognizing the significance of sharing his knowledge with aspiring law enforcement professionals, Dr. Martinez is an Adjunct Professor at Howard University within the Department of Sociology and Criminology. Moreover, Dr. Martinez has also lectured at the University of the District of Columbia and has guest lectured at American University. Lastly, Dr. Martinez has conducted numerous training sessions on various critical topics in law enforcement with an emphasis on bridging the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve.