Davin Cole’s Journey of Recovery & Resilience 🎙️
In this powerful episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney sits down with Davin Cole, a 31-year law enforcement veteran, mental health and addiction advocate, and public speaker. Davin’s story is one of falling, rebuilding, and rising stronger. A former San Francisco Police Department Lieutenant, he dedicated his career to public service, training officers in Procedural Justice, Tactical Communications, and Crisis Intervention. However, after suffering a severe on-duty injury, he became addicted to prescription painkillers, leading to his arrest and incarceration. Following this life-changing event and a diagnosis of Complex PTSD (CPTSD), Davin embarked on a journey of recovery, using his experience to break the stigma around mental health and addiction in law enforcement. Today, he speaks at conferences, police departments, and on podcasts, sharing his message of hope, resilience, and reform.
What We Cover in This Episode:
🔹 The mental health crisis in law enforcement—why first responders are at risk
🔹 Davin’s battle with addiction and his path to recovery
🔹 The role of trauma, PTSD, and substance abuse in high-pressure careers
🔹 Breaking the stigma: why police officers struggle to ask for help
🔹 Rebuilding after rock bottom—Davin’s mission to help others
🔹 How law enforcement can better support officers facing mental health challenges
Key Takeaways:
✅ Addiction can happen to anyone—even those sworn to protect others.
✅ Mental health support in law enforcement is critically lacking.
✅ Shame and stigma prevent many first responders from seeking help.
✅ Recovery is possible, no matter how far you’ve fallen.
✅ Davin’s story is proof that vulnerability is strength.
Quotes from Davin:
“I went from leading a police squad to being behind bars. But that moment didn’t define me—what I did after did.”
“Police officers see the worst of humanity every day. Without proper mental health support, it takes a toll.”
“Recovery isn’t just about getting clean. It’s about rebuilding your life and finding purpose again.”
“There is no shame in asking for help. The real strength is in seeking support.”
Resources and Links:
