Rookie Officer Leads With His Heart Serving Kansas City

Image of Officer Daquan Reid

Daquan Reid stands tall in his police uniform, wearing it with pride, knowing it allows him to serve the community in special ways.

It’s why he’s never doubted becoming a public servant, an opportunity Reid reflected on during Black History Month.

“When I was becoming a police officer, everyone asked me why,” Reid said. “Why would you do that? Why would you use your talents and your brains for that? Being an officer here, and interacting with the amount of African Americans in the city, in a way, not only do I owe it to them personally, but I owe it to the community to show that the uniform doesn’t mean it’s the stereotype everyone believes.”

At 22, Reid is a rookie officer intent on making a difference. Inspired by investigative TV shows, Reid has learned quickly since graduating in September that being a cop means helping the community in uncountable ways.

“I think it’s the best job in the world,” Reid explained. “It’s intense, but I couldn’t ask to do anything more or anything different. I love it. It’s a lot of fun. Every day, I do the job, and I learn. It’s super dynamic.”

Raised outside of Philadelphia, Reid arrived in Kansas City by way of Park University, running track for the Pirates. When he studied criminal justice, his career choice was confirmed. Now, in his newfound community, Reid is a shining example of believing in yourself.

“If someone would have told me this is where I’d be right now, I’d laugh,” Reid said. “Even in high school, I never thought about a police officer or that I’d leave my home state. Looking back at it, this is where I want to be. This has the best opportunities for me. I’ve learned a lot from Kansas City.”

#BlackHistoryMonth

KCPD has police officer openings. Apply here.