BIO

Alex Smith, with his 25-year tenure at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, has made significant contributions in various capacities, including as a Senior Field Training Officer and a detective specializing in crimes against persons. His commitment extended beyond traditional law enforcement roles, as he actively trained and educated law enforcement personnel and the community.

Smith's martial arts expertise is recognized locally and internationally. He has won black belt-level competitions in the United States, Korea, and the Philippines. During his time in South Korea (1987-1991), he taught martial arts to Korean nationals, sharing his knowledge and skills with a broader audience.

From 1997 to 2000, Smith served as a Custody Force Instructor, training over three thousand Sheriff Department personnel. His focus was on enhancing officer safety and effective law enforcement practices.

As a Reserve Deputy Sheriff (2002-2004), Smith contributed significantly to the Use of Force training programs. He also worked with the Krav Maga Force Training Division as a senior law enforcement instructor, certifying over a thousand officers from various agencies in self-defense and arrest control tactics. His role in enhancing the program's effectiveness was pivotal.

Returning to active duty in 2004, Smith continued his impactful work at NCCF as a unit-level force instructor. In 2006, he resumed his role at the Lancaster Sheriff Station, providing advanced training in the use of force and arrest control techniques. He often conducted additional sessions at his home and the station, free of charge.

Parallel to his law enforcement career, Smith founded Shielding Lives, Inc., a non-profit organization focused on educating the public about intimate partner abuse and supporting domestic violence survivors. His efforts include collaborations with Antelope Valley Hospital and Forensic Services Unit, where he serves as a guest speaker to promote domestic violence awareness. Smith leads self-defense workshops that focus on strategies for prevention, escape, and evasion (P.E.E.), specifically addressing the risks associated with domestic violence strangulation.