EMPLOYMENT

Edwin Martinez works for the Phoenix Police Department where he started in 1985. During his career he has worked as a patrol officer in several precincts and as a detective in the Silent Witness Program (as a Hispanic liaison between the Phoenix Police Department and the Hispanic Community), Drug Enforcement Bureau, Hate Crimes, Confrontation squad, Airport detail, and currently as a detective in the Property Management Bureau.

Mr. Martinez has been very involved with the Spanish speaking population in the city of Phoenix throughout his career in a variety of programs.

BACKGROUND

Mr. Martinez was born in New York City and lived there until he graduated high school and joined the Air Force. He served in the Air Force for four years and returned to New York. After deciding to continue with his education he went to Edinboro University in Erie, Pennsylvania where he majored in Spanish. At that time, Mr. Martinez wanted to become a teacher

After graduating college, he returned to New York City. Because the pay scale was too low for teachers, he decided to accept a job with American Express. While working for American Express he was transferred to Phoenix, Arizona as an instructor. Mr. Martinez assisted American Express with employee classes in Mexico City, Mexico and Caracas, Venezuela.

After approximately 8 years, Mr. Martinez decided to change careers and joined the Phoenix Police Department.

TEACHING

Mr. Martinez completed the Arizona P.O.S.T. General Instructor Course. He is also an Arizona P.O.S.T. certified Hate Crimes and Spanish Instructor. He taught hate crimes at A.S.U. West and the Phoenix Police Academy. He regularly teaches Spanish and Property Management at the Arizona Law Enforcement Academy to both recruits and sworn officers.

EDUCATION

Mr. Martinez has a Bachelor of Science in Spanish from Edinboro University in Erie, Pennsylvania.

SPANISH

Mr. Martinez is the son to first generation Puerto Rican parents; growing up in New York City, Spanish was Mr. Martinez’ first language. Eventually he learned English, with Spanish continuing to be the predominant language spoken in his household. Mr. Martinez is one of the few interpreters at the Property Management Bureau and often has the opportunity to use his native language. Mr. Martinez regularly visits Puerto Rico where he constantly learns new trends and words.