Jonathan Barerra

Jonathan has served for over a decade with the San Jose Police Department in California, working a variety of assignments that gave him a front-row seat to the challenges officers face on the street. His experience working undercover narcotics operations taught him how to adapt quickly, think strategically, and stay focused under pressure. Those same skills are now what he passes on to the next generation of officers.

As a certified Taser and Arrest Control Techniques instructor, Jonathan is a familiar face at the San Jose Police Academy, where he’s known for making complex tactics clear and usable for every recruit. He is presently a Field Training Officer, where he’s helping shape a training plan that goes beyond simply “meeting the standard.”

Jonathan believes that no Field Training Officer works in a vacuum. He promotes a team-based approach where multiple instructors share their perspectives, giving recruits a richer, more well-rounded start. The results speak for themselves: his former trainees have gone on to thrive in specialized assignments and as independent beat officers. Many credit Jonathan’s mentorship with giving them the tools and confidence to succeed and he wants the same for the FTOs that attend Savage Training Group courses.

When you’re in Jonathan’s class, expect someone who’s not just there to teach you the policies and paperwork, but to give you a tested, supportive framework you can use back at your own agency no matter its size.

Where you’ll see Jonathan teach: