First Responder: Officer Steven Beltran

Name: Steven Beltran

Date of birth:  Jan. 15, 1982

Hometown: Tampa

Rank/Title: Officer, School Resource Officer and SET (Special Enforcement Team)

How long have you been with the Gulfport Police Department?

5 years

What do you like about your job?

"I love dealing with kids, helping them out with daily issues. It's a rewarding position. This was the first class that I've been with since their freshman year; it was pretty interesting seeing the class graduate."

What do you dislike about your job?

"The paperwork. Having to see victims and dealing with victims and their families, seeing the negative side of what we do."

What inspired you to become an officer?

"Honestly, I liked working in the public safety realm. I'm not a behind-the-desk guy; I like dealing with different people."

What do you like about Gulfport?

"It's an interesting place; it has its own small-town feel to it in a well populated area. It's a different place."

What do you want the general public to know about the Gulfport Police Department?

"We're here to help them. We're here to help and defend, serve as a positive role model to youth."

Do you know a First Responder you think we should feature? E-mail editor Cherlene Willis at cherlene.willis@patch.com.