Hilton Napoleon, holds a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice education. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. With over thirty-three years of experience in law enforcement, he served as an executive officer in the Detroit Police Department and as the police chief for the cities of Inkster and Highland Park, Michigan.
Long before the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Atatiana Jefferson, Stephon Clark, Philando Castille, or twelve-year-old Tamir Rice, police brutality has been a persistent issue in Black communities. Author Hilton Napoleon, with nearly four decades of experience in law enforcement, understands the dangers of policing and the split-second decisions that officers often face.
In his book A Badge, a Gun, but No God, Napoleon sheds light on the issues within police departments serving Black and minority communities, including the killing of unarmed citizens and the unequal application of the law. He examines some of the most egregious incidents of police misconduct nationwide, offering a detailed analysis of the failures, the correct course of action, and the factors that contributed to officers’ improper behavior and decisions.
I enjoyed reading this book. The writer, a career police Chief (Hilton Napoleon) and a true believer of our Lord God, talked about the importance of the work of policing; be it in a big city, small town, open highways, or protecting farm community, all has its level of danger but one that’s wearing the badge and gun should have and carry the armor of God with them every day and night they are out protecting and serving. Well done, Sir.
– Roosevelt Lawrence, Jr. retired DPD