California Police Chief- Fall 2013 | Page 29

W ith this in mind, Chief Dewey approached Louis Maldonado, a 37-year martial arts veteran and the owner of a local gym. Chief Dewey asked if Maldonado would be willing to tailor a class for Ukiah Police Department (UPD) employees. That was five years ago, and the benefits have been outstanding. Everyone at UPD is invited to participate, from officers to dispatchers to clerks. Typically, officers are the most consistent participators. It is that consistency that has paid off. Twice a week, officers head to Maldonado’s gym for 45 minutes of cardio and weight work,