With over 30 years in law enforcement and a deep passion for trucking, Dean R. has bridged two demanding careers defined by discipline, integrity, and service.
We recently collaborated with Dean to record an enforcement etiquette video to benefit both students and drivers. Additionally, Musket is honored to donate to the upcoming Boots on the Ground event: a cause that supports those who have lost their lives on the force. This work also carries personal weight, as one of our retired Musket and Peel Police drivers recently lost his son while on duty.
We sat down with Dean to learn more about his remarkable career and what trucking means to him today.
A Life in Policing
“I started in 1995. Worked uniform in 11 and 12 Divisions (East and West Mississauga), both as a constable and a Patrol Sergeant. Also worked in the Detective Bureau for several years as a Detective Sergeant. I was a Homicide Detective for several years as well. I also have worked undercover as a surveillance officer, supervising one of our surveillance teams for the last few years of my career.”
Discovering Trucking
“I always have had an interest in heavy equipment and trucks going back to my childhood, as my father’s family grew up on a farm in Saskatchewan. I was driving tractors and combines, etc. when we would visit my uncle on the farm.”
“My wife went back to school when our children were young, so I needed to supplement my income to support her and my family. This is what I chose, something away from policing.”
“Many years ago, when I first started, I just remember a run I did for a friend out to Tilbury, Ontario. I was so relaxed and enjoyed it, that I realized that this was what seemed natural to me and something I wanted to continue long after my policing career was over.”
(Photo: Dean’s truck in Owego, NY)
Lessons That Transfer
“Policing taught me the importance of discipline, being focused, organized, task oriented, and being professional. These are all things I try and transfer to my career as a commercial driver.”
“Just the tricks I picked up to keep myself organized and problem solving. I think I have always had the value of hard work which obviously translates to trucking. I also feel that having integrity is something I pride myself on.”
Facing Enforcement with Respect
“I rarely mention my policing career when I myself get inspected. It does help having a law enforcement background though as I understand the pressures the officer may be getting from their bosses, which may lead to some of their decisions. In addition, I also know how I react when I have been the officer and someone acts unprofessionally towards me. Having that experience gives me an understanding of why it is important to always be professional.”
“Lastly, as an officer myself I recognize that the officers doing the inspections are really just another human doing a job they may or may not like, and like everyone else could be having a good or bad day. The more human the interaction is, the more likely the outcome will be positive.”
Safety Above All
“As an officer I was always aware that, especially working in uniform, I was always in the public eye and that everything I did would be noticed by someone. That being the case I was always careful to set a good example when it came to safety- especially when driving around in a patrol car.”
“Even with the increase in crime we see today, more people die or are severely injured in car crashes than all other crimes combined. When I am driving my truck, I realize how dangerous it can be for everyone if a driver is not laser focused on what they are doing. I have been to many fatal and life altering car crashes in my life and have seen the effects of this on people’s lives forever. There are a couple of tragic ones that I will never forget.”
Managing Stress
“As far as stress, there are stressful days in trucking like any other job. However, in my policing career I have learned to handle stress by keeping everything in perspective, having other interests (sports, etc.), and having a strong family at home. Without those I wouldn’t have lasted 30 years in policing.”
(Photo: Dean R. dressed as Santa Claus to deliver containers of goodies to Toys 4 Tots in 2022)
The Joy of the Road
“What I enjoy the most is ultimately the time out in the open road and taking in the sights as I drive the long distances. I do enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done and the friendships I have made as well. I have met some of the most genuine people over the course of my trucking career.”
Looking Back
“I would have taken the same path to get to where I am today. Start local, [learn the] ins and outs of the industry, and gain as much experience as you can.”
Dean’s story is a testament to the values of discipline, professionalism, and integrity that connect both policing and trucking. His perspective bridges two careers of service and safety, and his voice will continue to inspire new drivers joining the Musket team.
Click here to watch a snippet of Dean’s tips for proper law enforcement etiquette.