Dave Hankins

Dave brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to law enforcement, with over 29 years of hands-on experience in managing and investigating complex and high-profile criminal cases. Throughout his career, Dave has worked alongside violent crime task forces, collaborating with numerous Federal agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to combat some of the most dangerous criminal organizations. His vast career includes 11 years with law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles and Orange County, where he worked on cases ranging from violent crime to drug trafficking. For the past 18 years, Dave has served as a Senior Investigator for the Riverside County District Attorney’s office, where he has played a pivotal role in dismantling criminal networks that threaten public safety.

Throughout his career, Dave has coordinated and executed large-scale operations targeting narcotic and gang-related activity, often focusing on organized crime syndicates and criminal street gangs. His ability to manage these multifaceted operations stems from his deep understanding of the criminal landscape, as well as his ability to work seamlessly with various law enforcement entities. As a result, Dave is a court-recognized expert in key areas such as narcotics, firearms, and criminal street gangs, frequently providing critical testimony in court cases to ensure justice is served. His expertise in these fields has made him a go-to resource for both local and Federal investigations, contributing to the disruption of major criminal enterprises.

In addition to his investigative work, Dave has earned certifications as a firearms and defensive tactics instructor, and he is a regular figure on the law enforcement training circuit. His teaching credentials extend to a variety of subjects, where he imparts his extensive knowledge of investigative tactics, personal defense, and firearms proficiency to the next generation of law enforcement officers. Dave’s role as an instructor highlights his commitment to improving law enforcement practices and ensuring that officers are well-equipped to handle the rigors of their work in the field.

Dave’s career also includes extensive experience in providing security for large-scale events and venues. His expertise has been crucial in managing safety and security operations for major gatherings like the Coachella and Stagecoach Music Festivals, where thousands of attendees rely on effective planning and execution to ensure their safety. Dave’s involvement in these events demonstrates his ability to work under high-pressure conditions and coordinate efforts to prevent potential security threats.

Throughout his distinguished career, Dave has been recognized for his contributions to law enforcement and public safety. His work has earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Gang Officer of the Year award, which acknowledges his outstanding efforts in combating gang-related violence and organized crime. Dave’s dedication to his profession and his relentless pursuit of justice have made him a respected leader within the law enforcement community. His legacy continues to shape the fight against crime and inspire those who follow in his footsteps.