About this Event
Shots Fired! Trauma, Courage, and Triumph: One Officer's Journey Back
Join us at the Rancho Campana High School’s Performing Arts Center in Camarillo to hear the incredible and impactful story of San Diego Police Officer Micheal Martinez, who was involved in three officer-involved shootings within two years of completing field training, and a fourth officer-involved shooting seven years into his career. His experience led to severe PTSD, alcoholism, and a complete personal breakdown.
Michael shares his powerful story of surviving the unimaginable, rebuilding his life in the aftermath, and rising stronger than ever. This presentation dives deep into the reality behind the badge – the trauma, the toll our profession takes on us and our family, and the long road to triumph. Michael opens up about how he rebuilt his life, saved his family, and learned that asking for help isn’t weakness – its survival.
Michael’s wife played a large part in getting him help, and our goal is to welcome spouses and first responders from the Tri-Counties area to be able to hear this presentation. We believe that Michael's story will save lives, save careers, and save marriages.
There are two opportunities to hear Michael’s presentation. The first will be be on Tuesday, July 28th from 0900-1300 and the second will be on Wednesday, July 29th from 1300-1700.
MEET YOUR PRESENTER: Officer Michael Martinez
Officer Michael Martinez grew up in San Diego and started getting into trouble as a teenager before turning his life around and heading to Hawaii for college. His goal was to serve and protect — but his past made getting into law enforcement a challenge. While waiting to be accepted, he worked animal control in San Diego County before finally joining the San Diego Police Department.
Officer Martinez has been a Police Officer with the San Diego Police Department for nearly 10 years. After field training, he was assigned to Southern Division where he had the opportunity to work a variety of assignments including patrol, acting detective, and field training officer. Officer Martinez has been involved in four officer-involved shootings and two off-duty critical incidents. He took advantage of a career and life-changing opportunity that was offered to him by the San Diego Police Department’s Wellness Unit. He was diagnosed with PTSD, entered a rehabilitation facility, and now shares his story with fellow law enforcement officers.
Officer Martinez is currently a member of the Department’s OIS Peer Support Team and is assigned to the Department’s Wellness Unit. He presents to various law enforcement and civilian agencies, organizations, and conferences. Officer Martinez has received numerous awards including a Medal for Valor. He truly believes his assignment in the Wellness Unit is his calling to help others who are struggling in silence. His goal is to break the stigma of seeking and receiving help within the law enforcement profession and to be a resource to officers and their families.
This event is open and is free to ALL first responders from the Tri-Counties area and spouses are highly encouraged to attend. First responders include all law enforcement officers and dispatchers, firefighters, EMS, and probation. This event is hosted by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office and FREE to all attendees thanks to the Sgt Ron Helus Ride for the Blue.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Rancho Campana High School, 4235 Mar Vista Drive, Camarillo, United States
USD 0.00
