Bright Lights, Dark Places: Pioneering As a Female Police Officer in Las Vegas

by Debra Gauthier

Little could stand in Debra Gauthier's way. A marathon runner, Debra excelled in the Police Academy, garnering respect as one of the few female police officers in Las Vegas. However, through her twenty-one years on the police force, Debra faced discrimination in the male-dominated profession, suffering demotions and unsafe working conditions when other officers would not provide backup. In addition to the disappointment of injustice, she struggled with her sexuality, becoming entrenched in a homosexual lifestyle. After establishing an identity as a respected police officer, Debra was devastated when her career crumbled. Bright Lights, Dark Places thoughtfully expresses the painful reality of combating biased attitudes and the joy that comes from surpassing limitations. Packed with fascinating stories of a vibrant career, from teaching at the academy to pioneering a bicycle patrol, Bright Lights, Dark Places gives you an inside look at the career of one of the first female officers in Las Vegas. You will be encouraged by this powerful story of one woman finding grace to overcome trials.

232 pages, Paperback

First published July 12, 2011

Reviews

[Ben Willardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Story of Bravery and Discovery

This book provides an inspiring story of how the author experienced the police academy and the trials of being a female police officer. It shares the joys of helping others and the difficulty she encountered facing corruption and stereotyping within the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Although the experiences left scars, they allowed her to discover the divine grace of Jesus in her life and let her become a beacon of light to others. Reading this book provides strength and encouragement for the reader to do the same.

[Cristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

I had just read a book about another Officer working with Metro, and looking around I found this one, I love it, I would totally recommend it.

[Roy Stephenson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know Debra very well. She is a fine lady and when I was working along side her in law enforcement she was a fine police officer and sergeant. This well written book depicts events that occurred after I retired, However the book was very informative and interesting. Debra excels as a word smith in describing her trials and tribulations. If you want to read about a courageous struggle to set things right and learn how Debra learned to deal with the aftermath of this unhappy time in her life, this book is for you. Read it. You will like it.

[Robert B Fay · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspiring story of adversity and faith

Debra's journey of trials and faith will be an inspiration to those who are facing great difficulties, but also to those who recognize the blessings that our Lord provides each day. God's promise is not that we will avoid the evils of this earth, but that He will see that we get through them unscathed. I recently met Debra and the first thing I noticed about her was her smile. To me it expressed a peaceful inner confidence and now I understand why.
Bob F

[Gina Geldbach-Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a wonderful book about Debra's journey from darkness to light. She has been incredibly brave in following her heart and being true to her own inner healing finding a space where she can be in fulfilled and in peace. Through her story you can feel her faith and commitment to being a warrior still saving lives after the police department. Good read!

[Delia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author, Debra Gauthier, is a retired police officer with the Metro PD in Las Vegas. She tells about her incredible experiences in the community and with her coworkers. Ultimately, it is about her broken life that is transformed by finding the Lord. Debra is also a dynamic speaker with a very clear and powerful message.