RIVERSIDE – Where there is a need, there is someone like James Potts who consistently steps up.  Potts is a member of the California Association of Criminal Investigators (CACI), the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) and a detective at the California Department of Insurance, Inland Empire Regional Office and in those roles, he clearly saw the need for a law enforcement chaplain to assist first responders, the community he works and lives in, and members of CACI and CSLEA.  Seeing the need, Potts, with a CACI sponsorship, recently attended the School of Chaplaincy hosted by Living Shield Ministries at the Riverside Police Department.

“Sometimes we, as first responders, are hesitant to ask for help and don’t get the assistance we need,” said Potts.  “We are used to providing help, not asking for it.  After completing this course, my primary focus will be to provide care and support to our members, their families and the communities we serve.”

Chaplains provide emotional and spiritual care to people who have experienced or been impacted by a crisis.  They assist by helping first responders and victims to digest and cope with horrible things that have happened, or something small that has just added up and is contributing to post traumatic stress.

“A chaplain provides support to those who are grieving, those who have witnessed a traumatic scene, those who are victims of crimes, abuse, or neglect,” said CSLEA President Alan Barcelona.  “Their mere presence at a scene or following a crisis, is comforting, calm and supportive.  They also help to diffuse the stresses first responders build up over years.  Thank you, Detective Potts for recognizing the need and following your desire to be there to help our law enforcement and first responder family.”

Potts is no stranger to lending support.  On April 7, 2019, he put on his enforcement attire and participated in Run to remember Los Angeles 2019, a run to remember and honor fallen law enforcement officers. He is instrumental in seeing that a CACI sponsored flag is placed the Covina Field of Valor during its annual event to honor and support veterans who served in the armed forces.  He consistently honors CACI members who are retiring with a special plaque.

“We have a winner in Detective Potts.  He is nothing short of involved – with our membership, his partners in law enforcement, his community and supporting emotional needs – seen or unseen,” said CACI President Dennis Maffei. “CACI is honored to have sponsored him in the Chaplaincy course.”