Community Corner
Serving With Heart: A Police Officer’s Commitment To Community Safety
Officer Davis Fox shares his experiences with the Cotati Police Department and what serving the community means to him.
First responders are a vital part of our communities, keeping us safe and playing an integral role in daily life. Patch and T-Mobile have partnered on a Ride-Along series to showcase the important work these departments and individuals do every day.
We had the opportunity to speak with Officer Davis Fox of the Cotati Police Department to learn more about the department, life as a police officer and the impact of their work.
Can you tell us about the Cotati Police Department?
Officer Fox: The Cotati Police Department was founded in 1963 in the southern end of the County of Sonoma. We are a department of 13 sworn, including a Chief, Lieutenant, two Sergeants, one corporal and eight officers. We also have eight civilian employees, including dispatchers. We service 1.7 square miles and a population of approximately 8,000 people. We are referred to as the Hub of Sonoma County. We have dispatch positions, records, clerical support, cadets, volunteers and the only human tracking dog, Dolly, assigned to an officer in the county.
What does a typical day look like for a police officer in Cotati?
Officer Fox: A typical day in Cotati consists of a lot of community engagement, coupled with proactive policing and public safety education. Our primary arrests are related to impaired driving and theft, though overall Cotati is a low-crime, safe city to live, work and visit!
What inspired you to get into law enforcement?
Officer Fox: I was inspired to get into law enforcement with the understanding that it was a career that would challenge me, have me living in the unexpected, provide the opportunity to create positive and meaningful impact in other people’s lives, and to learn more about myself than most people will ever have the chance to. Law enforcement really is a front-row seat to the greatest show on earth. It inspires me to be better daily, to be a role model to those who need someone to look up to and to make a positive impact in my time here.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Cotati community?
Officer Fox: The things I enjoy the most about working for the Cotati Police Department is the ability to be proactive in the community and work for a smaller-sized agency where my coworkers are truly my family. I get to know people in the city by name and establish rapport that allows me to be more productive at my job, make a greater impact on the community and challenge myself with what type of police work I may want to do in any given day. We are a well-liked agency within our community and I am thankful for every day to earn the right to serve.
What advice would you offer to someone considering becoming a first responder?
Officer Fox: The best advice I’d give to someone wanting to get into law enforcement is to do your research. Understand the commitment and sacrifice that really go into being good at this profession. Go for a ride along, talk to your family and friends, have a support system and most importantly, if you feel it is your calling, then NEVER give up on chasing your dreams.
More About the Cotati Police Department
The Cotati Police Department offers several ways for individuals to get involved, including:
- The Cadet Program, open to young people between the ages of 14-21 looking to gain firsthand experience in law enforcement. Application materials and requirements can be found at the link.
- Neighborhood Watch, a community-based crime prevention program available in local neighborhoods. Those interested in learning more can call the department at 707-792-4611.
- Volunteers in Police Services (V.I.P.S.), a citizen group dedicated to supporting the Cotati Police Department in special enforcement, vacation house checks, office work and more. Those interested in joining can download and mail their Employment Application.
For more information, visit the City of Cotati website and explore opportunities to serve your community!
Learn About T-Priority, America’s best 5G network experience for first responders:
T-Priority is T-Mobile’s exclusive program designed to provide first responders with the best 5G network experience. This program prioritizes fast, reliable service even during high network congestion, ensuring that first responders stay connected when it matters most. In addition, T-Mobile offers special discounts to first responders on eligible plans, helping them save while staying connected with America's best 5G network.
Get more information about T-Priority and the first responder discounts here.
