Although the title may suggest this is a "cop book," it's much more than that. If you're looking for nothing but police stories, you'll find those in my second book, The Man in Blue: From the Files of Chief Steve Gray, coming in November 2025. This book takes you through my early years growing up in a tough, gritty town just outside Southwest Philadelphia - a place that shaped me into someone who refuses to quit, no matter how low life gets. Twice during my police career, doctors told me my injuries were too severe to ever make it back as a cop. Each time, I proved them wrong. Even after eight concussions and a 2021 diagnosis of Post Concussive Syndrome and PTSD, I got back up and returned to full active duties.
Here's what I believe: we all face highs and lows. Every person experiences moments of darkness, even if only briefly. What matters most is getting back up and moving forward when it feels impossible. That's what builds strength. Hold on. Fight for another day. Because some of your best days are still ahead, and your story can inspire others to rise too. That's what I hope to do for you here.