The Coachella Valley Chapter of the Latino Peace Officers Association (CVLPOA) was formed in the late 1980s and has been an active part of the community since. The CVLPOA sponsors, supports, and volunteers at numerous community service programs and presents annual awards and student college scholarships. CVLPOA members consist of peace officers, retired peace officers, law enforcement personnel and associate members in related fields.
Left to Right:
Secretary - Dan Devinny ()
Dan is currently a Sheriff’s Sergeant assigned to the Patrol Division at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Indio Station. He started out with the Coachella Police Dept in 1986 before joining the Sheriff’s Dept in 1989. Dan worked over 15 years in the Palm Desert Station, with 10 years as a Motorcycle Officer.
President - Manuel J. Lopez ()
Retired Law Enforcement Officer of 42 years, Manuel is currently employed with Indio Police Department as a Background Investigator. His prior service includes Senior Investigator - Riverside County District Attorney; Investigator/Patrol Sgt. - Indio Police Dept; Patrolman - Coachella Police Dept.
Vice President - Henry Ruiz ()
Henry started his law enforcement career in 1976 and retired as Sergeant with the Coachella Police Dept. For the last 15 years, he has been a self employed Private Investigator and is also a Registered Process Server, with his office based out of Indio.
Historian - Damian Ruiz ()
Damian is currently a Sheriff’s Deputy assigned to the Court Services Division at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department providing Judicial protection. He started out with the Indio Police Dept in 2002 before joining the Sheriff’s Dept in 2007. Damian worked 5 years at Indio Police Department as a Community Service Officer and as a Police Officer.
Sgt. of Arms - Mark Barfknecht ()
Mark started with Riverside County Sheriff's Dept in 1981 at the Indio Jail. During his career he worked his way through the ranks at many different assignments, all in the Coachella Valley. His career came full circle when he retired after 28 years as a Captain, and the Commander of the Indio Jail, in October 2009. Mark has been with CVLPOA for over 15 years, including 5 years as Chapter President.
Treasurer - Frank Gonzalez ()
Sheriff's Corporal currently assigned to the Personnel Bureau, Frank has worked for Riverside County Sheriff for 33 years.
Past Presidents: Mark Barfknecht, Louie Bautista, Frank Gonzalez, Sabas Rosas, Henry F. Ruiz
