Kerri Potter

Lieutenant II Kerri Potter retired from the Los Angeles Police Department in 2022 with over 31 years of service. Her tenure with LAPD included 20 years as a detective and detective supervisor, 10 years of which were investigating homicides in South Los Angeles. She also held the rank of field sergeant and retired as the assistant commanding officer of Juvenile Division, in charge of the Abused Child Unit.

Has law enforcement changed?

A look at how the profession has evolved over time

January 26, 2026

I have heard this both as a question — “Has law enforcement changed?” — and as a statement — “Law enforcement has changed!” Generally speaking, the question comes from the […] Read More

Surviving and thriving in retirement

A realistic picture of life after the job

November 23, 2025

When I needed a job and applied to become a Los Angeles police officer, benefits were a factor in my decision. A steady paycheck and medical insurance were considerations, but […] Read More

Leaders — the good, the bad and the horrible

June 28, 2025

Leadership is a term that is used in many parts of our lives. In law enforcement, poor leadership glares like a forward-facing red light; it is probably easier for each […] Read More