Brian Martin made headlines last fall when, decked out in velour and a colorful boa, he took the prestigious “Mr. Lake County” crown from a competitive field. On Thursday of this week he helped escort the Giants’ world series trophies through Kelseyville. And in between, he was sworn in as Lake County’s new sheriff — the role for which he was truly prepared. After moving to the area with his parents (his father served as judge) at the age of 10, Martin traveled to UC-Davis for college then joined the U.S. Army, serving in the military police. After five years as a soldier, he trained as a civilian police officer in Modesto. Eventually, he worked his way back to Lake County. During his career, he has served as a police officer, a deputy, with a crime scene investigation unit, on a SWAT team and more.
1. Which was the more memorable moment: being sworn in as sheriff or being named Mr. Lake County?
Definitely being sworn in. Mr. Lake County was fun and for a good cause. It was great to be involved.
2. But a boa?
[Laughs] The crushed velvet jacket wasn’t mine, either. Those are all borrowed clothes — except the tuxedo t-shirt. I bought that.
3. What’s it like being on stage?
I’ve done some scary things. In the army I jumped out of planes. I’ve been on a SWAT team. But there’s still some nervousness.
4. Why go into law enforcement?
I always enjoyed helping people. And there’s a lot of excitement in this job. It’s always rewarding and challenging. It’s never the same day twice.
5. But there are those challenging moments. How do you handle those?
It falls back on training — the training we receive at the academy, the training we participate in and what we learn from others. It can’t prepare you for everything, but we learn from experience. Maybe you haven’t seen a situation before, but another officer has. Hopefully you don’t find yourself caught too far off guard.
6. How are things different when you move into leadership?
The biggest difference is the responsibility. Every deputy is responsible for their own duties. Being a leader, you’re responsible for all of it — good or bad, and there will be bad. Sometimes that’s difficult, but I take that responsibility.
7. Do you watch cop movies?
Some. The high action movies are for entertainment purposes. Every once in awhile there’s one that gets it right. I like action movies, but I look at it from a cop’s perspective. I find myself saying ‘that would never happen.’
8. Are you ever off duty?
No — not any more. I field calls at all hours. But I signed up for it.
9. Why come back to Lake County?
The people. We have as diverse a society as you’ll see anywhere. The people who live here choose to because they love it. The lake is gorgeous, but first and foremost it’s the people.
10. You got to ride with the world series trophies. Are you a Giants fan?
I’m not really a fan of any particular team. I’m glad they won. But I’m proud they came to our community. That was a good thing.
