As Black History Month kicks off, the Mesquite Police Department is taking the opportunity to spotlight a figure of resilience and dedication within its ranks. Sergeant Torrey Rhone is not just an officer; he's a beacon of achievement and community involvement far beyond the badge. Having faced personal adversity, Sgt. Rhone channeled his experiences into a career that stands as a testament to his perseverance and commitment to service.
Hailing from Gardena, California, where he battled personal tragedies, Rhone was no stranger to adversity. Fueled by the moral and academic principles instilled by his parents, and his sister, Dr. Raquel L. Rhone, Torrey Rhone managed to not only acquire an academic scholarship to Fisk University but also to excel within the brotherhood of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. It was after the murder of a fraternity brother that Rhone decided to start anew in Mesquite, Texas, to seriously pursue a future in law enforcement.
Education paved the way for Rhone's career, marked by commendable academic pursuits. He completed a Bachelor's Degree in criminal justice at the University of North Texas at Denton, graduating sum cum laude, and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in criminal justice from the University of North Texas at Dallas. A journey that began in 2007, when the Mesquite Police Department welcomed Rhone into its ranks, has culminated in a series of roles including patrol officer, field training officer, and crime scene technician, among others.
On May 14, 2021, Sgt. Rhone achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first black officer in the department's history to be promoted to the rank of sergeant. His career, replete with accolades like three life-saving awards and the prestigious Martin Luther King Community Service Award from the Tri-East NAACP chapter, is a story of relentless service and leadership. Despite these lauded achievements, as reported by the Mesquite Police Department, Rhone states that he is most proud of his family, his wife Stephanie, and their two children.
The laudable journey of Sgt. Rhone is more than just a narrative of ascending through the ranks; it's a story of tangible influence and real-world impact. His role as an adjunct professor and decorated public servant continues to inspire many within and outside the force during this Black History Month when such figures are rightly brought to the forefront.
