Sgt. Torrey Rhone (c) makes history in Mesquite.
Credit: Photo courtesy
Since 1953 the Mesquite Police Department has never had an African American to attain the rank of Sergeant, or hold a management position since its inception.
Police Chief David Faaborg said, “I am proud of everything Torrey has achieved. He has been a leader in our department spearheading many public outreach efforts to improve our community. Torrey has performed his duties in an exemplary manner. He is highly respected by his supervisors and peers. Sergeant Rhone is a model officer who exhibits excellent character and unselfish service.”
Despite the attempts of the few African American police officers employed at the agency, no one has been able to shatter the glass ceiling within the department until today.
“I am overwhelmed, overjoyed, and humbled to announce that the glass ceiling has finally been shattered and history has finally been achieved,” said Sgt. Torrey E. Rhone. “I have served at the Mesquite Police Department for 14 years in various capacities. Despite the internal battles, conflicts and achievements, I will move into my next role as the first African American police sergeant in the history of the Mesquite Police Department in the City of Mesquite, Texas.
“And despite those who tried to stand in the way, block the progress, or stop the process for whatever nefarious reasons, intentions, or sentiments, God had the final say.”
Sgt. Rhone’s Promotional Ceremony was held at the Mesquite Arts Center on Friday.
A Crime Prevention/Community Policing liaison officer for the Mesquite Police Department in the City of Mesquite. Sgt. Rhone works with community partners and citizens to educate them about personal safety and security along with empowering youth and young adults to look beyond their present-day circumstances and achieve their dreams of a brighter future.
After a decade of working in law enforcement as a patrol officer, field training officer (FTO), certified teacher instructor, criminal scene investigator, and hostage negotiator, Sgt. Rhone has experienced and overcome life obstacles, and personal tragedies while growing up in the streets of Inglewood, California.
He obtained an academic scholarship to Fisk University, in Nashville, TN. After joining Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the subsequent murder of his fraternity brother, Sgt. Rhone moved to Mesquite, TX and dedicated his life to the pursuit of law enforcement.
He went on to complete his undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT-D) graduating Summa Cum Laude and continued on his academic journey to obtain his Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the UNT-D. A husband and father, Sgt. Rhone is a decorated law enforcement officer and public servant with numerous meritorious awards and community achievements. He is also an adjunct professor in the Criminal Justice Department of his alma mater at the UNT and Texas A&M University-Commerce.
“I want to extend a special ‘Thank You’ to those whose prayers covered me during this journey and ask for your continued support on this new endeavor,” said Sgt. Rhone.
