Years of Service: 1987-2018 

Derek began his law enforcement career working for the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control as an investigator. While working there, Derek honed his skills as an undercover officer while working cases involving prostitution, drugs, stolen goods and selling alcohol to minors.

In 1990, Derek was hired by the DEA and was assigned to the San Diego Field Division where he remained for his career.  

During his time in San Diego, Derek was assigned to general enforcement investigations, maritime smuggling, outdoor marijuana grow operations and to the task force for 19 years which gave him his lifelong goal of always being on the street.

Derek retired as a Group Supervisor of the Technical Operations group where he ensured that things such as concealed video and audio recorders as well as covert cameras were always available to agents in the field to support investigations for successful prosecution.