After nearly two decades in law enforcement, I faced a decision many officers eventually consider: what comes next? Serving the public is a calling, but there comes a time when some of us look to apply our skills in a new way. For me, that path led to launching Black Onyx Investigations, LLC, a private security and investigative services firm.
Transitioning from the badge to business isn’t a simple switch—it’s a new world with different rules, risks, and rewards. But if you approach it strategically and thoughtfully, it can be an incredibly fulfilling next chapter. Here are some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way, and some advice for law enforcement professionals considering entrepreneurship.
Recognize Transferable Skills
Law enforcement teaches a wide range of skills that translate directly into business. Leadership, risk assessment, decision-making under pressure, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly—these are all invaluable in the private sector.
During my time in the Austin Police Department, I managed teams, coordinated operations, and oversaw training programs for over 2,300 personnel. Those experiences gave me a foundation in leadership and operations management that proved essential when starting Black Onyx. The key is recognizing how your law enforcement experience applies to running a business, and being ready to adapt those skills to a new environment.
Understand the Business Landscape
One of the biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make is underestimating the complexities of running a business. Law enforcement prepares you to solve problems and respond to crises—but entrepreneurship requires understanding finances, marketing, legal compliance, and operations.
Before launching Black Onyx, I spent significant time researching the private security and investigative industry, learning about licensing requirements, insurance, client expectations, and competitive services. I also sought mentorship from seasoned business owners. Law enforcement teaches you to investigate, gather facts, and make informed decisions—apply that same rigor to understanding your market and industry before taking the leap.
Build a Solid Network
Relationships matter in business just as much as they do in policing. Your credibility, trustworthiness, and reputation open doors. For former officers, your network of colleagues, community contacts, and professional associations can be a huge advantage.
I leveraged my experience and connections within law enforcement, municipal leadership, and professional organizations to build a foundation for Black Onyx. Networking also means seeking guidance from people outside law enforcement—entrepreneurs, financial advisors, and legal experts—who can help you navigate unfamiliar terrain. Don’t try to go it alone. Collaboration and mentorship are key to long-term success.
Prepare for Risk and Uncertainty
Risk is inherent in both policing and business—but the nature of that risk is different. In law enforcement, you are trained to manage high-stakes situations with defined protocols. In business, risk is more unpredictable. Cash flow, client acquisition, regulatory changes, and staffing issues all introduce uncertainty that requires resilience and adaptability.
Entrepreneurship requires a mindset shift. Decisions are no longer guided solely by policy—they’re guided by strategy, ethics, and long-term vision. Embrace flexibility and prepare for setbacks. Your ability to stay calm and think clearly under pressure, honed over years in law enforcement, will be a tremendous asset here.
Focus on Reputation and Integrity
In both law enforcement and business, your reputation precedes you. People want to work with those they trust. For me, integrity has been non-negotiable in building Black Onyx. Every client interaction, every investigation, every security detail reflects on the company and on me personally.
Former officers often have a credibility advantage because of their background. Use it wisely. Keep commitments, be transparent with clients, and maintain high standards for yourself and your team. A strong reputation will help you weather challenges that every business inevitably faces.
Invest in Continuous Learning
Starting a business requires learning new skills constantly. I returned to school for an MBA and completed executive training programs to strengthen my understanding of business strategy, operations, and leadership outside the public sector.
Continuous learning isn’t optional—it’s essential. The more you understand business fundamentals, the more effectively you can run operations, manage staff, and grow your enterprise. Your law enforcement experience is invaluable, but the business world has its own rules, and it’s important to respect and understand them.
Build a Team You Can Trust
One of the lessons I learned in law enforcement is that no leader can succeed alone. The same principle applies to business. Surround yourself with capable, trustworthy people who share your values and vision. Delegate responsibilities appropriately and empower your team to make decisions within their expertise.
At Black Onyx, hiring the right people has been critical. I look for individuals who not only have technical skills but also demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to client service. A strong team allows you to focus on strategy, growth, and maintaining standards while ensuring operations run smoothly.
Embrace Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship
For many officers, leaving the badge doesn’t mean leaving service behind. Entrepreneurship offers an opportunity to continue making a positive impact, but in a different way. For me, Black Onyx is not just a business—it’s a mission to provide professional, ethical, and effective investigative and security services.
Purpose drives motivation and resilience. When you build a business rooted in your values, challenges become opportunities to demonstrate your commitment, strengthen relationships, and leave a lasting legacy.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning from law enforcement to entrepreneurship is both challenging and rewarding. It requires self-awareness, preparation, and a willingness to learn—but it also offers the chance to apply your skills in new and meaningful ways. Recognize your transferable skills, understand your industry, build a trusted network, embrace risk thoughtfully, and maintain integrity at every step.
If you approach it with the same dedication and discipline you brought to the badge, entrepreneurship after law enforcement can be an incredibly fulfilling next chapter. Serving the community doesn’t end with your career in public safety—it simply evolves into new forms, with the potential to create impact, opportunity, and lasting success.