Cpl. Stephen Galloza has served with the Montgomery County police for eight years, filling various roles. He’s currently in a 60-day position in the media relations office. Usually, he works the 3 p.m.-1 a.m. patrol shift in Bethesda and used to patrol Germantown from 8:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. Galloza, 34, is married with two children and lives in Damascus.
How did you become involved with law enforcement?
I didn’t always know I wanted to do this. I actually wanted to become a doctor. I went to Cornell University and then life happened. I joined the service and was in the Coast Guard for four years. There, I was exposed to search and rescue and law enforcement. I spent a lot of time on the water searching and rescuing. I really enjoyed that. It was a passion and I actualized it when I got out and I became an officer.
What is one of your achievements?
I spent three years as an educational facilities officer and I created the Northwest Youth Intervention and Diversion Program. It was a way to deal with at-risk youth — those who are at the brink of getting into trouble but haven’t yet. We were able to work with the NAACP, the faith community and the police department to find ways to address our issues by meeting with and mentoring them. I saw a lot of success in that. We’re trying to come up with something comprehensive to help kids who are on the cusp of going down that road.
What is the best part about your job?
I like being there when no one else can be and recognizing when someone’s in great need. I am glad I have the privilege to be there and be that person to help. I count that as a privilege, not just something I do for my job.
