Sergeant Patterson began his law enforcement career 16 years ago as a Patrol Officer. Today, he is a highly valued Patrol Sergeant who plays a crucial role in the department, serving as a Background Investigator, Training Coordinator, and Armorer. Each of these positions allows Sergeant Patterson to contribute to the safety, preparedness, and integrity of the agency in meaningful ways.
Sergeant Patterson’s journey into law enforcement began after serving nine years in the United States Army, where he was part of an aviation unit and worked in the infantry. Transitioning into law enforcement was a natural step, his unwavering commitment to his country ultimately inspired him to pursue a career as a Police Officer. Reflecting on this transition, he proudly says, “After leaving the military, I was looking for another way to serve my country and community.” In addition to a career in law enforcement, Sergeant Patterson is currently pursuing a degree in Education at Grand Canyon University, which is driven by his dedication to mentorship and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
His time in the military provided him with the opportunity to explore over 14 countries, allowing him to immerse himself in diverse cultures and gain new perspectives. With a passion for travel and discovery, one of his top bucket list goals is to return to Europe and experience even more of its rich history and landscapes.
Sergeant Patterson has called Holbrook home since the age of ten, fostering deep roots within the community. He finds immense fulfillment in coaching softball, where he not only teaches skills but also mentors and inspires young athletes. He also serves as the Vice President of the Navajo County Fair Board, a role that allows him to contribute to his community in a meaningful way, something he deeply enjoys. Additionally, Sergeant Patterson has a passion for woodworking, a craft that lets him express his creativity and bring his ideas to life with his hands.
Above all, his greatest source of inspiration comes from his wife and children, who motivate him to lead by example, work hard, and continually strive for excellence in every aspect of his life. Furthermore, his dedication to the community, the unwavering support of his family, and the camaraderie of his colleagues, serve as constant sources of encouragement, pushing him to be a better officer, leader, and individual every day.
To get to know Sergeant Patterson a bit better, we asked him a few fun and lighthearted questions. Here’s a look at some unique details that offer a behind-the-scenes peek into his life and personality.
1. Is there something you pretend to hate but secretly love?
Starbucks coffee—I joke about it, but deep down, I’m definitely a fan.
2. What are your pet peeves?
Nails on a chalkboard and loud chewers—those sounds really get under my skin.
3. If you won the lottery, what would you do first?
I’d take a vacation to relax and unwind, then I’d build a bigger shop to expand my woodworking projects.
4. What is your favorite holiday?
Christmas is my favorite. I love how it brings family together. I really enjoy seeing the surprise and joy on everyone’s faces when they get something unexpected.
5. Would you rather have a rewind button or a pause button on your life?
That’s a tough question, as both could be useful. A pause button would be amazing because I could stop time and savor the moments with my kids while they’re still small. But then, a rewind button would also be tempting, as it would let me re-live those moments and have more time with my loved ones, making sure I don’t miss a thing.