Turlock Associated Police Officers

September is Su***de Prevention Month.

In law enforcement, we talk a lot about being there for the community. We don’t always talk enough about being there for each other.

This profession can take a toll that isn’t always visible. Long shifts, repeated exposure to trauma, stress at work and at home, and the expectation to keep going can add up.

Check on your people. Have the hard conversation. Ask twice when someone says they’re fine. And if you’re the one struggling, asking for help does not make you any less capable of doing this job.

This month, and every month, TAPO stands behind the men and women who serve our community and the importance of taking care of the person behind the badge and the headset.

You don’t have to carry everything alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.

Tonight, we remembered Modesto Police Department Sgt. Mike Pershall.

Nine years ago, Sgt. Pershall was off duty and riding his bicycle near his home when he was struck and killed by a drunk driver. He left behind his wife and two young sons.

Family, friends and members of the law enforcement community gathered tonight at the site where Mike was killed to remember him and the life that was taken far too soon. Among them were his two sons, one of whom has since followed in his father’s footsteps and become a Modesto Police Officer.

The law enforcement community is a small one. Different agencies and different patches don’t change the weight of a loss like this. Mike’s memory lives on through his family, the people who knew and worked alongside him, and the community he served.

Nine years later, his death is also a reminder of the permanent damage caused by one person’s selfish decision to drive drunk. A family lost a husband and father. Friends lost someone they loved. MPD lost a sergeant and friend.

There is no excuse for driving impaired. Get a ride. Call someone. Hand over your keys. Do whatever you have to do, but don’t make a selfish decision that someone else’s family will have to live with forever.

We continue to keep the Pershall family and our brothers and sisters at MPD in our hearts.

Rest easy, Mike.

That’s a wrap on the 3rd Annual TPOA Bowling Tournament! 🎳

Congratulations to this year’s top three teams:
🥇 Sloppy Thursday
🥈 Gomes & Sons
🥉 JPS Junk Removal

We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support of TPOA, TAPO, and our members. Thank you for helping make year three another successful fundraiser! 🎳

250 years of freedom. 250 years of sacrifice. 250 years of the American spirit. 🇺🇸

Today, we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America and the generations of men and women who have defended the freedoms we enjoy every day.

From our TAPO family to yours, we wish you a safe and memorable Fourth of July. As you celebrate with family, friends, and neighbors, take a moment to reflect on the history that brought us here and the people who continue to serve our communities and our country.

Happy Independence Day!

Proud to stand behind one of our own.

TAPO was proud to sponsor Sgt. Cliff Lewis as he stepped into the ring for Battle of the Badges, competing alongside first responders from agencies across California.

After months of hard work and training, he put it all on the line and represented our association and the Turlock law enforcement family with grit, discipline, and heart.

We’re proud of you, Sarge.

📸: juanvisionphotography

Being a father isn’t measured by titles or recognition. It’s found in the everyday moments—showing up, setting the example, and putting family first.

Today, we recognize and thank all the dads, grandfathers, stepdads, and father figures who make a difference in the lives of those around them.

Happy Father’s Day. 💙