I GREW UP IN: Exeter Township, but I was born in Reading.
I NOW LIVE IN: Exeter Township.
FAMILY: Wife, Kelly; sons, Felix Jr., 17; and Ian, 10.
EDUCATION: I graduated from the Exeter Township School District. After graduation, I enlisted in the U.S. Army and was active duty 1986-90, followed by serving in the Pennsylvania National Guard. I was hired by the Reading Police Department and graduated from the Reading Police Academy, and I attended and completed many law enforcement and criminal justice credit courses toward degree completion.
MY ROLE: My duties include crime prevention and deterrence, prosecution of criminal offenders, traffic safety and maintaining the quality of life the residents deserve. In addition, I am responsible for the supervision and administration of our department, which has 11 officers. This entails ensuring the officers receive the proper training and equipment and are cognizant of crime, traffic and resident concerns within the borough, as well as conducting and following up on all necessary investigations.
THE MOST REWARDING PART OF MY JOB: The opportunity to meet so many different people and have an impact on their lives.
SOMEONE WHO INSPIRED ME: My father, who inspired me the most. He taught me the value of treating people properly and honestly, as well as the meaning of hard work and that you make your own breaks in life. I remember him telling me, “If you do a job you love, you will never work a day in your life.” I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a police officer and I am grateful I have the opportunity.
MOST MEMORABLE CAREER MOMENT: While still working with the Reading Police Department, I participated in the candlelight vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. Once you witness it, it will never be forgotten.
YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW: While on active duty with the U.S. Army, I participated in several rotations of guarding the East/West German border before taking part in the demolition of the Berlin Wall to re-unify Germany. Also, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially at the beach, as well as reading, working out and practicing karate with my sons.