 | | | "This has been my best assignment in 20 years," says Detective Danny Jeffries, of his time with the Orinda Police Department. Photo Cathy Dausman
| | | | | | Orinda Police Detective Danny Jeffries describes himself as simply a generalist. "I am not an award guy. I just enjoy doing my stuff."
His direct supervisor, Detective Sergeant Neil Rafanan, tells it differently. Explaining to Orinda City Council why Jeffries was being honored as Orinda's 2011 Officer of the Year April 10, Rafanan credited Jeffries with the arrest of over 24 suspects last year.
Reached later for comment, Rafanan commended the investigative abilities of his friend. "He's got great perspective ...natural instinct."
Jeffries got his start with his high school Explorers club, and recommends it as "a great program" for young people interested in law enforcement.
His first job was as an officer for the Oakland Housing Authority Police, followed by stints in Kensington, Hayward, and Kensington again, where he received a promotion to the rank of Sergeant before moving to the Contra Costa Sheriff's Department (CCSD).
He's been with the Orinda Police Department (OPD) for five years, and is described by Rafanan as the best partner he's ever had. The two share a warm camaraderie. Both speak highly of their chief, Jeffrey Jennings.
Interviews with the three were punctuated by active chatter coming in over new P-25 radios, illustrating just how frenetic OPD days are.
"You get some hard core people coming to Orinda to commit crimes," said Jeffries, who noted the majority come from outside of the area. "A couple have even made me shudder."
"Orinda is a target-rich environment," added Rafanan. Laptops, big screen televisions, and other electronics are the most popular items. They can be easily grabbed and sold.
"That's why we created the home security audit," said Jeffries. The free assessments average 15 minutes and help make homes less vulnerable. Residents who have not yet had one done may contact OPD for details: (925) 254-6820.
When the worst happens, he said, call OPD promptly. The quicker police can get cracking on tracking, the more likely they are to be successful. They've recovered a significant amount of stolen property, including priceless and irreplaceable heirloom jewelry which had been passed down to one resident from her great-grandmother.
"Be vigilant in your neighborhoods," Jeffries advised, "and look out for one another."
Jeffries will rotate out of Orinda for a new assignment in June.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA