About John Leas
A career spent making big moments go right.
Four decades across law enforcement, professional sports, national entertainment, and public safety education — distilled into one trusted advisor.
I am a Special Event Management and Public Safety professional with more than 40 years of combined law enforcement and private sector experience. My career has focused on one mission: ensuring that public gatherings—whether a small community festival or a national sporting event—are safe, secure, and successful.
After serving as a Lieutenant with the San Diego Police Department for over three decades, I transitioned to the private sector as Director of Security for the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. There, I oversaw safety and security for MLB games, world-class concerts, and high-profile special events in partnership with city, state, and federal agencies.
Since 2014, I've served as a nationwide consultant, Expert Witness, and instructor, training more than 5,000 professionals in event planning, risk management, crisis response, and crowd safety. I also present at Special Event Safety Seminars across the country, helping both public and private sector teams strengthen their planning and operations.
My expertise includes:
- Large-scale event safety and security operations
- Risk and liability reduction strategies
- Crisis planning, response, and after-action analysis
- Training and curriculum development
- Expert Witness services for legal proceedings
My passion is teaching organizations how to prepare effectively—so every event they host not only runs smoothly, but also protects their community, guests, and reputation.
Career Timeline
Four decades, one through-line: people are safe when leaders are prepared.
1980s
San Diego Police Department
Began a 31-year career in law enforcement, building experience across patrol, investigations, and operational command.
1990s
Training Director
Led department-wide training initiatives in event response, crowd management, and crisis preparedness.
2000s
Executive Protection & Special Investigations
Directed dignitary protection details and high-sensitivity investigations across major public events.
2000s
Patrol Leadership
Commanded patrol operations supporting large-scale gatherings, concerts, and championship-level sporting events.
2010s
Director of Security — San Diego Padres
Oversaw all venue security operations at Petco Park, including World Series, All-Star Game, and major touring concerts.
Today
National Consultant & Expert Witness
Advises stadiums, leagues, promoters, agencies, and counsel nationwide on event safety, security, and litigation.
Final Word
When Safety Matters, Experience Matters.
Trusted by public safety leaders, event organizers, sports venues, and organizations nationwide.
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