Major Gerald Irwin Speaks About His Law Enforcement Journey

Major Gerald Irwin never imagined he would become the deputy chief of Liberty University Police Department (LUPD) after a career of 29.5 years in the City of Coral Springs Police Department (CSPD). Irwin actually thought he would have been working in the fish section of Bass Pro Shops when he retired as a captain from CSPD. 

Irwin worked in many different areas of CSPD before he was later promoted to the position of the supervisor over the narcotics unit. While he worked in the narcotics unit, Irwin met his most impactful mentor, Clyde Parry, whom he attributed a great amount of his success to. Irwin said he tries to take after the things he learned from Parry in everything he does in law enforcement.

“He was … my biggest mentor in law enforcement, and he’s one of my best friends today,” Irwin said. “Even though we were friends, there were times he would be very, very hard on me but for a reason. … Whether it’s personal life or work related, he was always there and he always had the best lessons.” 

In 2018, Irwin served as a lieutenant in CSPD and was involved in the aftermath of the Feb. 14 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, better known as the Parkland school shooting. Irwin said he was in a “dark place” during the two years after the shooting as he dealt with the sudden loss of a family friend and the “commissions and the inquiries” that followed the fatal event. Shortly after the shooting, Irwin was promoted to the role of captain. 

Irwin’s first experience with Liberty was during a College for a Weekend visit with his daughter who ultimately ended up attending the university. While in Lynchburg for the weekend, Irwin introduced himself to Colonel Richard Hinkley, the chief of LUPD, and told him about his experience with the Parkland high school shooting. Hinkley then invited Irwin to return to Liberty in order to share the lessons he had learned from the shooting. 

After his presentation about the shooting, Irwin kept in touch with Director of Emergency Management & Community Engagement, Jeff Hurtak. Eventually, Irwin heard that Hinkley would be retiring in the near future. He talked to Vice President Marcus Tinsley and interviewed for the deputy chief position. Still thinking he would retire within the next couple of years from CSPD and instead work part-time for Bass Pro Shops, Irwin decided to go to God in prayer.

“It was probably the first time I really surrendered to God,” Irwin said. “I said, ‘I don’t know what to do. … Tell me what you want me to do. … I’m good with either staying or going.’ … And there was a lot of clear signs that this is where God wanted me.” 

Irwin officially came on staff as LUPD’s deputy chief in November 2023. As the deputy chief, Irwin has responsibilities in nearly every aspect of LUPD, but namely the administrative and hiring process. Irwin also plays a key role in the direction that the department is heading toward — being nationally accredited — by reviewing and rewriting policies. He is currently undergoing training to take over Hinkley’s position when he retires.

Irwin said he experiences more respect in his current work environment. He alluded to how everyone in the department is constantly working to improve and striving to reach the goal of becoming the “best university police department in the country.” Irwin said he and the LUPD staff are committed to keeping the surrounding community safe. He also said he is encouraged by the student body’s appreciation for the department.   

Irwin said staying firm in his faith carried him through the toughest times during his career in law enforcement. Irwin found peace knowing that God would never put him in a situation that he couldn’t handle and that he could depend on God in every circumstance. 

“Anytime I’m struggling with something that seems so difficult … you say a prayer and ask him to help you get through (it),” Irwin said. “He won’t put you in any situation that you can’t accomplish, and there’s a reason for everything.” 

Sturek is the campus news editor.