From SWAT to songwriting: Calif. police sergeant’s music builds bridges, humanizes policing By:

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By Sarah Roebuck

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FRESNO, Calif. — Sgt. Bernard Finley has spent decades serving his community in Fresno, California, where he’s donned multiple hats — SWAT team member, field training officer and mentor. But it’s his off-duty passion that’s opening hearts.

Through songwriting and music production, Finley isn’t just expressing himself; he’s aiming to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community.

Growing up in Compton, California, Finley’s interest in law enforcement began early. A pivotal experience in the eighth grade, where he served as “chief of police for a day,” solidified his ambition to pursue a career in law enforcement. After finishing college and passing the police academy, he embarked on what he now reflects on as one of the best decisions of his life. Over the years, his career has been diverse and fulfilling, allowing him to engage deeply with his community through various roles.

Outside the uniform, however, Finley’s creativity shines just as brightly. His passion for music, which began in middle school as part of a rap group interviewed by Dr. Dre to be on his label, never waned despite his commitment to law enforcement. Now, he channels that love for music into creating songs that delve into the complexities of policing, striving to humanize officers and offer the public a deeper understanding of the challenges they encounter.

“We do have a job to do, and at the same time, it’s important for law enforcement officers to understand that, ‘Hey, we don’t have to be so robotic; we don’t have to be just cops 24 hours a day, seven days a week,’” said Finley.

His songs delve into various themes, from the emotional toll of the job to the importance of mental health and self-care, offering listeners a glimpse into the human side of the badge.

“Music gives me a voice so I can explain certain things within law enforcement that maybe most folks don’t understand … and try to put it in a way that it’s easier to understand,” Finley explained.

One of the driving forces behind Finley’s music is the desire to show that law enforcement officers are just like everyone else.

“[I] would like to show that, as law enforcement officers, we’re human. We’re the same, not different. We have goals. We have dreams. We have aspirations … I think it’s very important for folks to understand that we are part of the community and we understand what they may be going through,” Finley said.

Finley emphasizes the need for balance in life, advocating for hobbies, friendships outside of law enforcement and positive ways to cope with the stresses of the job.

“I think you have to find a balance and I preach that to my crew all the time … some folks get into the job and that’s all they do. They live and breathe it and it can be taxing.”

In addition to his musical pursuits, Finley has made significant contributions off-duty through mentoring and fostering young men, many of whom faced emotional challenges and trauma. His dedication to these youths extends beyond his professional responsibilities, as he’s raised six foster sons, guiding them through their formative years to help them graduate high school and thrive in life.

At work, Finley is equally committed to promoting resilience among his team. He encourages open conversations about mental health, the importance of taking time off, and finding a balance between work and personal life.

In Finley’s world, the badge and the microphone go hand in hand, each serving a vital role in his mission to build bridges between law enforcement and the community. Finley’s music, mentorship and ideas show that even in the toughest of jobs, there is room for creativity, compassion and change.