Our Instructors
S.A.F.E. Foundation instructors possess over 100 years of combined experience in safeguarding our nation and communities, boasting extensive backgrounds in law enforcement and military service.
Their expertise in real-world situations stems from their experience patrolling high-risk areas where they have walked the dark and dangerous streets of our communities, apprehending dangerous criminals murderers, rapist, drug dealers and combating illicit activities. Guided by their faith, our instructors chose a path of service and protection, committed to safeguarding our nation and communities.
Presently, they continue to serve by providing FREE training to our communities, empowering individuals to safeguard themselves and their families.
To learn more about crime prevention, personal safety and human trafficking contact S.A.F.E. Foundation and benefit from the expertise of our instructors, who selflessly volunteer their time and skills to serve others. S.A.F.E. Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization.
Mario Chesney
President & Founder
Mario Chesney is the founder of the SAFE Foundation. A retired Police Detective and United States Marine Corps Sergeant, Mario brings proven investigative skills developed through years of law enforcement and military service. His goal has always been to combine his experience in policing, military operations, and corporate account management to improve community safety. His leadership sets the tone for the Foundation’s mission of service and protection.
Mayor Pierre Washington
Instructor
Mayor Pierre Washington was born and raised in North Philadelphia and proudly served 22 years in the United States Navy, leading to a 30-year career in public service and law enforcement. His policing roles included Community Police Officer, Narcotics Detective, and K9 Officer for the City of Richmond.
In 2006, Pierre and his wife Cherylyn moved to American Canyon, where they raised their seven children. He was elected to the City Council in 2020 and now serves as the Mayor of American Canyon. Pierre is deeply involved in numerous boards, including the Napa County Climate Action Committee and the American Canyon Fire Protection District. He also supports local organizations like the Lions Club and the VFW.
His leadership focuses on youth opportunity, public safety, equity, and civic engagement. Mayor Washington is a passionate advocate for safer, stronger, and more inclusive communities.
Tammara Brown
Chief Financial Officer & Legal Chief
Tammara Brown is the founder of CA Legal Docs, a firm specializing in probate, conservatorships, guardianships, estate planning, and court accountings. As a Registered Legal Document Assistant in Napa and Contra Costa Counties, she provides affordable legal support to individuals who may not have access to traditional legal services.
She is also a certified mediator, tax preparer, estate planning specialist, and notary public. In addition to volunteering as an instructor for Contra Costa Superior Court, Tammara supports 18 law firms as a paralegal and serves on the Board of Directors for CALDA. Her broad expertise and commitment to community service make her an invaluable part of the S.A.F.E. Foundation.
Brando Cruz
Instructor
Brando Cruz is a USAF Security Forces veteran who served tours in Panama, Saudi Arabia, and the Republic of Korea. He began his martial arts journey in the 1980s, training in D.O.C.S. Karate under Grand Master Victor Hughes, Kajukenbo under Professor Bobby Seronio, Jr., and Balintawak Arnis under Grand Master Mel Orpilla.
A retired police sergeant, Brando also served as a Defensive Tactics Instructor, Impact Weapons Instructor, and SWAT Operator/Sniper. His tactical knowledge and community focus make him a powerful force in safety education. He currently serves as a Councilmember for the City of American Canyon, bringing civic leadership and public service to everything he does.
Jalen Rosales
Instructor
Deputy Jalen Rosales was one of the SAFE Foundation’s first students when it launched in 2021. Since 2017, he has served as a Sheriff’s Deputy in one of the Bay Area’s most iconic cities. As a Defensive Tactics Instructor and Range Safety Officer, he trains deputies for both correctional and patrol duties. Currently working in the Patrol Unit, Jalen is known for his integrity and eagerness to help others.
His disciplined mindset is rooted in his time as a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point. A proud Filipino American and the oldest of three brothers, Jalen values faith, family, and service—principles that guide his personal and professional life.
Brandon Smith
Instructor
Brandon Smith is a US Army veteran with over 23 years of experience in a major Bay Area police department. He has served as a Field Training Officer for more than two decades, mentoring new recruits and shaping the future of law enforcement.
As a certified instructor in defensive tactics, weaponless self-defense, and impact weapons, Brandon designs programs that enhance safety and confidence for both law enforcement and civilians. His passion for mentorship extends beyond policing—he’s been a wrestling coach at local schools for over 10 years, using the sport to teach discipline, resilience, and leadership to youth in the community.
Jameiz Terrell
Instructor
Special Agent Jameiz Terrell is a 13-year veteran of law enforcement and one of the few female SWAT Operators in the state—an elite position that reflects her exceptional skill and resilience. She began her career with the Contra Costa County Probation Department, then joined the Richmond Police Department where she served as a Gang Detective, ATF Task Force Officer, and SWAT Operator.
Now in state service, she holds several critical instructor roles, including Firearms, Use of Force, Chemical Agents, and Less Lethal techniques. She also teaches at the Police Academy. Jameiz holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Counseling and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, Stanislaus. She brings unmatched tactical knowledge and a passion for mentorship to every SAFE training event.
Sebastian Borges
Instructor
Sebastian Borges brings over a decade of distinguished military service, having served as a Phoenix Raven and Criminal Investigator focused on narcotics and sex crimes in Hawaii. His experience spans leading direct action law enforcement teams overseas and collaborating with more than 30 allied nations across 47 countries. He has conducted high-stakes security operations and protective details for U.S. dignitaries, including the Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense.
In addition to his global law enforcement background, Sebastian has dedicated time to mentoring at-risk youth as both a life coach and physical training coach. His commitment to building resilience and leadership remains central to his mission. Today, Sebastian continues to serve and protect as a local law enforcement officer in our community.