“Do the right things for the right reasons, period”
This inspiring Tahoe native is a Douglas County Deputy Sheriff and Field Training Officer who serves the entire Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. Beyond his devotion to his family and his profession, Justin Davis is also an active member in local committees and passionately involved with the South Lake Tahoe Little League.
Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Justin Davis!
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
I have been a Deputy with DCSO since 2007. I spent my first two years working in the jail and have been a patrol deputy since 2009. Since Douglas County is split between Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley, I primarily work at Lake Tahoe as it’s my home town. I am responsible for all patrol functions and handling calls for service on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, from the casino core to Spooner summit and all of Kingsbury Grade. Tahoe provides both a unique and challenging task as during peak winter and summer months, the population balloons to those of large cities and we have a huge influx of tourists in the area. In addition to being a patrol deputy, I am also an FTO or Field Training Officer, so I am tasked with training new patrol deputies as they advance through various stages of our 16 week training programs. This position is a very challenging, yet rewarding experience, as I love to teach and share my knowledge and experiences with newer and less experienced deputies who are in the beginning phases of their careers. I am also the Treasurer for our Sheriffs’ Association, while not an exciting role, I take care of the books and help shape decisions to better the working lives of our deputies.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
In the past year, I trained three (3) consecutive Deputies, who went on to graduate the Field Training Program (FTO) and are now my shift partners. It has been a very exciting and rewarding portion of my career to share my education, knowledge and experience to train my future partners and future leaders within this agency.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?
“Do the right things for the right reasons, period”. Also, in my profession, “Always GO HOME”. I pride myself on always treating those I come in contact with, with respect and I make it a habit to be fair, firm and consistent in my interactions with the public. I have built some amazing relationships with multiple citizens and local business through my proactive police work and I pride myself on those relationships, as it fosters trust and respect in the community. I truly believe evil exists when good men and woman chose to do nothing, I chose to do something and answered the call to service.
Who is your role model?
Well, this is a long list, so I’ll do my best to condense it. First and foremost, my mother and father. Both instilled in me at a young age the virtues of hard work, character, and integrity and for giving me the ability to care for others. Growing up, my dad was on city council for a number of years, in addition to various other boards and commissions, so his public service qualities were passed on to me. My mother taught me to always be caring, understanding, yet tough and always explained to me to do what’s right, not popular and to always be a leader. My wife, for her constant support, understanding and for keeping me grounded. She has been my sounding board, my rock and my support mechanism. It’s not always easy being married to a cop. My two daughters, Olivia (10) and Savannah (1) for simply reminding me what pure unconditional love is and for the ability to be the very best Dad I can be. Professionally, my Sheriff and boss, Dan Coverley. I have worked with Dan almost my entire career, including when he was my patrol Sergeant. Dan exemplifies leadership and is the type of boss that holds you accountable, yet makes you feel appreciated and apart of his team. When he announced he was running for Sheriff, I knew without a doubt he would be elected and we are very fortunate to have him leading our agency.
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
I was born and raised in Lake Tahoe and graduated from STHS in 2001. After high school, I moved away for college as most kids do. For a while, I was very excited to get out of Lake Tahoe and I spent four (4) years in Ft. Collins, Colorado where I attended Colorado State University and earned my degree in Criminal Sociology and Political Science. It wasn’t until I told people where I was from, that I fully understood how truly amazing my home town was. After graduation, I moved back to Lake Tahoe and decided to plant my roots where they always belonged. Lake Tahoe is truly God’s County and one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
Yes, I am a member of the Republican Central Committee for El Dorado County. I am also the Communications director and information officer for South Tahoe Little League, which is comprised of an amazing board. We provide over 250 kids with the ability to play baseball annually, and it’s without a doubt the best organization in Lake Tahoe and I’m honored to be a part of shaping our communities youth. In addition to the little league board, I’m also a coach for the leagues’ majors’ division. Baseball is my favorite sport and passion. I love coaching our local youth. I grew up playing baseball in the same league and on the same fields where I coach today and it’s so much fun to make a positive difference in the lives of these children. It’s quite nostalgic actually to think back to my days playing in little league and now being able to live vicariously through the kids I coach. I’m also a mentor for a high school student’s senior project. She has chosen to complete her project on law enforcement wants to pursue a future career in crime scenes and investigations.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Well, I enjoy spending as much time as possible with my family, both my wife and kids and my extended family and friends. I’m a gym addict, so I love weight lifting and working out. In the winter months, I enjoy skiing, but nothing beats Tahoe summers. Most summer days, we are either at the beach, or on the boat and partaking in some type of water sports including; tubing, water skiing and wakeboarding. I also play in an adult Co-ed softball league, which is a blast for us adults to be able to hang out and have some fun. I try to full take advantage of our year-round playground and take in all Tahoe has to offer.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds
Tahoe has really changed through the years, but some things never change. I grew up working at Camp Rich Resort and Marina and I often find myself at the Beacon for some dinner and drinks, after a day at the beach or on the boat. I live across the street from my childhood home, in a house I inherited from an adopted Grandma. The neighborhood had changed, but it’s pretty cool to look across the street to where I grew up. Also, it’s only a five minute walk to the beach and lake access. Recently, I have been completing major remodels and upgrades to our house. Lastly, I love Heavenly Village and all it has to offer, most notably, California Burger Company. My buddy, Ted Kennedy, owns the restaurant, along with many other eateries. Ted is a huge Law Enforcement fan and has always made us feel welcome and at home, not to mention he has the best burgers in town.
Do you know a deserving young professional? Nominate them here.