09/06/2026
Friday, we lost a true legend in law enforcement, Joe Maffei.
Years before I began my own law enforcement career, I met Joe and had the privilege of spending time with the entire Maffei family. Joe was a highly professional lawman who was well known and deeply respected by both his fellow officers and the citizens he served.
The legendary stories of Joe, Bill Scott, Craig Tramonte, the Millos, and so many other GPD greats certainly played a part in inspiring me to pursue a career in law enforcement.
Joe retired from GPD shortly before I was hired as a GPD officer. As a rookie going through the field training program, you quickly learn that every FTO has their own style of policing. By the end of training, you begin developing your own style by taking bits and pieces from each officer who helped train and influence you.
Joe was never my FTO, but I can tell you that conversations with him on his back porch over a cold b**r helped shape and influence the kind of police officer I became.
Joe was a mentor to many, always willing to share his wisdom, whether it was on the streets, during a visit in the lobby of the federal courthouse, sitting on the back porch, or around the deer camp.
Joe Maffei will never be forgotten. His legacy will live on through the officers he influenced, the people he served, and the stories that will continue to be told around campfires for years to come; including classics like “Apple Sauce” and “The Blister.”
Kathryn and I send our deepest condolences to the entire Maffei family.
Rest easy, Joe Maffei #637. We’ve got it from here.