Lt. Raquel Oliver Takes the Helm at Sedona Police Department

Raquel Oliver, who spent 18 years with the Dallas Police Department, has embraced a new chapter in Sedona after her retirement in January. On July 8, she was officially sworn in as a lieutenant at the Sedona Police Department.

Originally from Duncanville, Texas, Oliver holds degrees in exercise science and sports management, which she pursued in Abilene. She is a mother of three, including twins aged 26 and a 30-year-old, who all remain in Texas while she starts this new journey alone.

Oliver’s transition from corporate wellness to policing was spontaneous. A pivotal moment in her office in 2003 prompted her to apply for a police position, leading to her early career with the Dallas Police Department, where she combined her passions for fitness and law enforcement. “I taught at the Dallas Police Academy and worked in several units,” she recalled, expressing enthusiasm about bringing that experience to Sedona.

In her new role, one of Oliver’s responsibilities includes establishing a wellness unit and a recruitment initiative. She emphasizes the importance of diversity in law enforcement, advocating that individuals from various educational backgrounds can contribute significantly as police officers. “It’s valuable for us to show that not everyone needs a criminal justice degree to excel in this field,” she remarked.

Considering future aspirations, Oliver hopes to maintain her focus on fitness and wellness even in retirement. She’s currently focused on building a peer support program for first responders in the community, recognizing the unique challenges presented by Sedona’s smaller department size. “We’re collaborating with other agencies to create a support network,” she stated.

The Sedona Police Department is nearing full staffing levels; currently, three additional officers are in training at the police academy. Oliver noted some positions remain open in dispatch and victim advocacy, a point of enthusiasm for her.

Adjusting to the quieter environment of Sedona compared to Dallas has posed challenges. “The volume of calls has been the biggest change,” she noted, recalling her friends’ concerns about adapting to the smaller community. However, she believes her background and personality bring a needed vibrancy to the area. “I’m lively and different,” Oliver added, reflecting on her approach within the department.

Despite the adjustment, Oliver has encountered challenges beyond the professional sphere, including feelings of isolation in her new home. She has been flying back to Dallas monthly to visit her family, noting the difficulty of separation. “When my mom left after staying with me, it was heart-wrenching,” she recalled. Their daily conversations have been a source of comfort since that transition.

As a woman of color in a predominantly male field, Oliver acknowledges the complexities she faces but remains determined to be herself. “I know I may be treated differently, but I focus on the support I receive,” she said. Her approach to navigating these experiences is underscored by her acceptance of differences while maintaining her authentic self. “It’s easier for me to just be me,” she concluded.