The Devil in the City of Angels: My Encounters With the Diabolical

by Jesse Romero

“I went from an indifferent apathetic Sunday Mass attending Catholic Christian to an on fire Catholic Christian in a few short years. What reignited my faith? The many encounters I had with the occult and diabolical.” 

So says renowned Catholic apologist and retired veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Jesse Romero. Now for the first time in print, Romero reveals the harrowing details of his experiences with the demonic while working for the LASD. Discover the true stories of spiritual warfare being waged in the streets and alleys of L.A.,   The Devil in the City of Angels  is much more than a catalog of strange and terrifying events. It exposes Satan as the Father of Lies so we can see how he works, and how to defeat him. Drawing on his own experiences as well as the most authoritative sources, Romero offers the reader numerous cautionary tales, ut also that hope that is only found in Jesus Christ and his Church. 

Genres: Catholic, Nonfiction, Religion, Christian, Spirituality, Book Club, Christianity

140 pages, Hardcover

Published July 29, 2019

About the author

Jesse Romero holds a B.A. in Liberal Arts from Mount St Mary's College in Los Angeles and he has a Master’s Degree in Catholic Theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio. Before and since then, he has spent his time teaching, speaking, writing, and giving Bible studies and conferences on all matters Catholic. Jesse also serves at the parish level as the director of religious education at a small, but growing, parish 40 minutes north of Los Angeles, CA. Jesse speaks to groups and at conferences about the Bible, the Catholic Church, Biblical theology, and numerous other Catholic topics.

After rediscovering his Catholic roots, Jesse studied and prayed his way back to a fervent on-going practice of the Catholic Faith. Through his experiences with non-Catholics and fallen-away Catholics alike, Jesse is well-versed on all Catholic issues and topics and, as a bilingual speaker, and specializes in evangelization, youth events, apologetics seminars, conferences of all sizes, and bible studies.

As the proud parents of Paul, AnnMarie, and Joshua, Jesse and his wife Anita have been happily married for 28 years.

Reviews

[Caryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very short book. Even I, with my habit of DNFing books for lack of time, managed to finish this in an afternoon. Written very simply, it's obviously meant to convey information rather than for literary merit. It is an easy read written for broad appeal, a straightforward account of people influenced by demonic entities, whom Romero has encountered in his home city, both while working as an officer in the LAPD and afterward. These include people he has encountered incidentally during speaking engagements, people who have asked him for help, and people at whose exorcisms he has assisted.

Romero takes these incidents very seriously. He seldom confronts any evil presence without the blessing of a priest, and never directly addresses them. He doesn't go into great detail about how priests, and other qualified people who assist them, deal with infestations, but he does touch on it. (There are books by actual exorcists, including Fr. Gabriel Amorth and Fr. Gary Thomas, who go into greater detail about their interactions with the spiritual world). He talks about the various ways in which people may be influenced by the demonic, how they are permitted access, and gives examples. At the end of the book he includes prayers for spiritual battle, some of which I, as a lifelong Catholic, had never seen.

A concise introduction to how Catholics consider, and may deal with, the preternatural.

[Richard Pelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

God exists because the Devil exists

This book tells us that evil really exists. He is not an imagination but a real person. This book shows the power of the devil but it also shows that it can be defeated by God but we have to trust God. Although the main audience of this book are hispanics, any catholic could relate because only in our Roman Catholic Church we have priests that perform exorcisms. In the end the book tells us to guard our thoughts and trust God always. I always like the story of the man who died by suicide. I always thought that if you die by suicide then your soul goes into hell. However in this book God in all his power will do everything to save you and us. We just have to humble ourselves and ask for his forgiveness. God still wants to save us even if we are seconds away from death. That is how much God loves us

[SilverReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fortunately short read. It isn't that i didn't believe his experiences. In contrast , other people associated with that stuff were way more humble and pragmatists. I could discern the "Rambo" mentality in what ever he would narrate, heavily dipped into useless metaphors (supposedly to explain better the story).
Last part is mostly copy-paste verses from scripture.
I would definitely expect more from his experiences, to say the least. Adding to that the price of the book, in correlation to the content.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy anything from Jesse Romero, and this is another powerful work from this man.

His experiences will surprise and shock while also strengthening your faith.

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have heard Jesse Romero speak publicly and refer to his experience as a spiritual warrior and deliverance ministry worker. He is a devout and righteous Catholic apologist and warrior for God who is trained in spiritual warfare and deliverance. His experience is primarily in the Latino/-a communities in California.

His relatively short book (120 pages) is a recount of his early experiences and what got him into this ministry. It is not meant to be a biography nor a training book for exorcists. He does give a overview of the great calamity among Catholic lay people, priests, and Catholics - a disbelief in the existence of Satan (Lucifer). Further, he touches on the diminishing of the threat of Satan and his minions by lukewarm Catholics. He also calls out the 'religious' (lukewarm/weak believers) for their embracing of false doctrines such as 'pagan' practices of worshipping 'Santa Muerte,' practicign Santeria, going to psychics, wicca, going to botanicas, 'good luck charms, and talking to the dead.

Mr. Romero lays put the person of Lucifer, the fallen angel and the 'Father of Lies.' Lucifer is the enemy of God and the accuser of men. He also writes about how Lucifer takes advantage of lackadaisical believers, ignorance of the Word of God, and fear. He reminds all that Lucifer is NOT the equal of God like too many lukewarm believers falsely state and believe. God is superior and good. It is only (He) who can defeat the devil and we can call upon the angels, Mary, Jesus, and God when the devil threatens us. Mr. Romero does delve deeply in the Marian opposition to and authority over Satan/Lucifer.

The main part of his book is dedicated to story of the demonic encounters and battles that Mr. Romero has experienced. He focuses on demonic attack because of active mortal sin; generational curses inviting the demonic; making 'deals' with the devil, dabbling in the occult (ouija baords, seers, mediums, psychics, et al), and witchcraft. He illustrates his point with several demonic encounters and deliverances from his career.

He dedicates a section to witches and on is an agreement with the devil. In exchange for their soul, the witch gets powers and earthly victories which are short-lived until they die as a damned soul. He goes into great deal about his experiences with witches, including attempts at cursing him, confrontations, and deliverances of several. He approaches witches with care and the guidance of the Holy Spirit for they are dangerous. He also provides prayers of protection against a witch's curses.

The author also focuses on the 'santa muerte' and 'santeria.' 'Santa Muerte' refers to a demonic and pagan cult that worships a skeletal being dressed in women's fine garments. It is a violent cult that adulterates the Catholic faith. It is closely tied to the drug cartels and represents a demonic religion that promises protection and success to the criminals who worship the demon known as 'santa muerte' (holy death). 'Santeria' is actually voodoo under the guise of fake Catholicism down to the statues. It is also a demonic religion with African origins. It has nothing to do with the Catholic faith other than a loose connection. Both of these cults are marketed through 'botonicas' (occult shops) that operate under the guise of being stores for holistic medical herbs, statues, and religious items. The author warns of Catholics frequenting these storefront sellers of 'santeria' and 'santa muerte' items.

The author ends his narrative section with a chapter on advice to stay away from the occult and spend more time in worship of and God and studying the scriptures. Mr. Romero espouses that the only true strength comes from God and having the mind of God. It is crucial that one commits one's body, heart, soul, and mind to God. As a Catholic, he firmly believes that a belief in and completion of all sacraments will 'seal' one form the devil. Renewing one's mind with Holy Spirit will guard the heart.

The end of the book ends his book prayers of protection, guidance, and deliverance. One should commit these prayers to heart if one plans to battle the demonic.

I highly recommend this book of empowerment and insight.

[Shari · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick read on spiritual warfare based on the author's time as a Los Angeles county sheriff and later as a Catholic apologist and his encounters with the diabolical. The ending chapters included ways we can arm up with God's armor and Word to fight against the evil in this world.
A word of caution... I would suggest NOT reading the chapters on his encounters with demonic possession before bed! I read them before bed and was so frightened by the reality and description of them I had a hard time sleeping!

[Debra · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a short book in which Jesse Romero related his encounters with the devil. His experiences all sound similar to ones I have heard from others. It does sound though that L.A. has a lot of diabolical activity and that some of it I have not been aware of, such as curses and shops that sell "magic" items. Sounds like a breeding ground for the enemy to flourish.
A quick read.

[anishya · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know what, It was pretty good. It was a nice and necessary warning for me to stay away from ouija and the occult and all that stuff. For some time, I felt that maybe Mr. Romero was exaggerating some events. But I did my research and found some more testimonies that match up to this book. I liked it!
(read sometime in april)

[Kara Straney · Rating 1 out of 5]

I can't believe this book has 4.8 stars. The author's writing is incredibly simple the book can be read and finished in a day by a second grader. The author's accounts with "diabolical entities" are so farfetched and ridiculous, they seem fictitious! I didn't get thru the second chapter.

[Judgemental Toast · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good!!! I finished it in one day. I love Jesse Romero’s tone, especially how he wraps up the book.
Considering the sort of times we are living in, this book should be in every Catholic bookshelf. 10/10 👍🏻

[Joyce Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

As a old person my eyes
we're opened to a world I didn't know about.I
Thank you Jesse for writing this book.
I will use it for the many prayers you put in it.

[Zach Teske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read to help better understand the spiritual battles going on behind the scenes for our souls.

[Elkaza · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to give this book 5 stars. Sure, its small, but a very powerful book that only took me an afternoon to read. But, the information on my mind and heart, will be with me for the next few weeks as I reflect what the author wrote about Satan and the lies, he spreads to capture our hearts away from the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.

This is an important book, all Catholics should read, I believe around the time they make their confirmation. Well, maybe not in my area, as there still little kids. I will leave that here, but not happy how my diocese, gives this sacrament so young, some only 8 or 9 years old . Yeah, I am rattling on here, but always makes me sad, as there just rushing the kids through. Anyway, all teens should read this book, as its teachers a person on how to fight the evil spirits from tearing you away from your faith, and into protection of Jesus, mainly through his Mother Mary and St Michael. I love how the author was able to tell his own experiences, as a police officer in Los Angles, as he observed these evil influences, and how they affected him on a spiritual level, that he needed to turn to Jesus Christ for help. And, finally onto a different path, now on a mission to bring people back to the church, especially the Hispanic people, through the correct sanctified doctrine and prayers of the Catholic Church.

I have heard Jesse Romero speak often on YouTube, and through other Social Media, and always found him to be inspiring and indeed being led by the Holy Spirit. I was so thrilled to finally read his book, and understand why he now speaks the way he does. He has seen evil at its worst, and so wants to help God’s Children to become the best they can. Something we all need help with, in this very crazy and confusing world.

[Mayra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe that in order to grow in faith, one must learn to accept uncomfortable truths. This book is filled with so many uncomfortable accounts of Jesse Romero's personal experience, whether during his time as a deputy sheriff for LASD, or post retirement. Regardless, the reality is that many Catholics do not believe in the existence of the enemy, perhaps through willful ignorance or for lack of knowledge. This is not only a detriment to the Catholic faithful, but to the entirety of humanity, for if one member of the body of Christ is suffering, we all suffer. The point that Romero really tries to drive at through this book is the reality of the enemy and a warning for the several points of entry that we allow him and the other evil entities to enter our lives. It truly is a wake up call to all, especially to insufficiently cathecized Catholics, to acknowledge the reality of the enemy and seek to repent and strive for a holy life.

This is a quick read. One of the criticisms that I have read about this book is that the last few pages are mostly copied and pasted scripture; I, however, fail to see that as a detriment to the quality of this book. Romero is a passionate apologist and evangelist, and his commentary and insights on scripture I find to be not only enriching, but inspiring. It can be challenging to read if you find spiritual warfare, for lack of a better word, "spooky", but I implore everyone to do themselves a favor and read this book. In order to win this battle, we need to know the enemy just as well as we know ourselves.

[Billy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even tho I could read the book for less than a week. But I took my time and pondered what I've read in each chapter. The only parts that are important for me to know the ”Santa Muerte” and ”Santeria” since I’ve seen those everywhere in Los Angeles. Especially within the Hispanic areas. It is beneficial to know these so I can advise my Catholic Hispanic friends to be aware of it (to my surprise, some didn't realize it's not Catholic). And in my opinion, it is a preliminary spiritual ”counsel” on how to engage in a spiritual battle against demons. He shares his real stories to give an idea.

To those that give a low rating. They took it so lightly with their simple native minds. Seems to me, they're a friend of the devil as to those who have a ”perfect possession.” (I may be wrong, but that's what it seems). There is nothing wrong with this book. It is a good starter on how to engage in warfare for those us in knowing how to start at a fundamental level. From there, we could go to a deeper level. We all have to start at the surface and not to jump in radically. Otherwise, we would experience a morbid fear in a cringe in despair. You need to know what's in store how these demons can do and cannot. This book is for you.

[Jennifer Edelmeyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

What stood out the most in "The Devil in the City of Angels" was not what the book was about (spiritual warfare) but the peek it gave me into Southern California's Hispanic culture. Compared to my mainstream American / sixpack in the pew suburban Catholic upbringing, the culture described by Mr. Romero was lively, colorful, clannish, and open to the supernatural (for better or for worse). It's always a good thing to broaden one's horizons and meet other people. If you can't travel, or if you know no one personally, then a book like this the next best thing.

Supercilious individuals with a background/ upbringing similar to mine tend to pass off manifestations of the supernatural as the byproduct of a lively imagination and the need for spiritual warfare as medieval superstition. If you are of that sort, I suggest reading Mr. Romero's book with an open mind. Let him share his experiences. At the end of the book, he includes advice for any concerns you may have about things that go "bump in the night."

I borrowed this book from the public library via interlibrary loan. Might as well partake of the taxpayer funded bounty.

[Imperio · Rating 1 out of 5]

There is so much wrong with this book that I don’t even know where to start but I will give it a try because there no way this book should a have the rating that does.

From a literary point of view the book is very simple. This should have been at the most a glorified pamphlet or a long blog post. This shouldn’t count as a book. The writing style itself is very brief and succinct to the point of irrelevance. The author is also incredibly biased to the point that it makes this non-fiction book just a piece of Catholic propaganda. If the purpose of this book was to inform readers this inherent biased completely killed that mission.

As far as the content is concerned it was incredibly problematic. Though I do not doubt that the author whole heartedly believes his accounts of his brushes with the demonic the only evil I was able to see was a law enforcement official who abused his power to unduly influence mentally ill prisoners and members of the community.

So all in all a HARD pass from this Catholic.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was engaging at least the first half. Given his continued notoriety in popular culture, who doesn't want to hear a Night Stalker story? However, passionate and earnest as he comes across, Mr. Romero doesn't dive deeply into his stories or provide any insights into his faith journey. I did like that he included various prayers including the full version of St. Patrick's Breastplate of which I once taught a kid-friendly version to RCIA families. Still, this is not a memoir or collection of spiritual reflection essays. It's really more a religious exhortation to beware of supernatural forces and occult practices. While I do share many of Mr. Romero's beliefs, I know he does not have the adequate training to take part in an actual exorcism. As for his writing, it is evident he is a preacher and not a writer.

[Paul LaGreca · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you believe that demons and possession do not exist, think again ... and take the time to read Jesse Romero's "The Devil in the City of Angels: My Encounters with the Diabolical." Mr. Romero is a former Los Angeles police officer and witnessed the unfortunate sub-culture of Santeria and other occult practices which, unfortunately, have become commonplace in the Hispanic communities of LA.

I thought this book would frighten me, so I let it sit on my "to read" pile for almost a year. The book did quite the opposite - it strengthened my faith in Christ and the Church. This book is a powerhouse and Romero leads the reader through his experiences with faith and grace. Very well-written and filled with hope.

[Rosanne Petersen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic overview of the spiritual battles going on all around us at all times. Great, first-hand accounts of these battles. The author does a good job of explaining what possession, occult practices, witchcraft, etc., are, why it's on the rise, and how to help others escape. One of my main personal takeaways is to always guard my thoughts, and to train myself to always have "good first thoughts" as opposed to negative, as is my habit.

Short read, interesting, and practical. Highly recommended.

[Emmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ooph! I picked this up expecting a quick read and an interesting memoir about a man of faith who faces off against the forces of darkness. What I got instead of a quick read and a terrifying tale of a man who has had many encounters with the demonic. The book has some great information, powerful lessons, and a strong selection of prayers at the end for the faithful to use.

This was a book that I picked up and could not put down. Fascinating, horrifying, and just...wow. I hope that I never have to encounter any of this.

[MKF]

Christian propaganda to try and scare you into believing in God. The author continues spreading the stereotypical backward thinking that all satanists and witches are evil, perform human sacrifice, abuse children, and deserves to be burned at the stake in the village square. Okay, so the last part he doesn't actually say that but he would probably be the first one there with a torch. I wouldn't recommend this book to anybody unless they really wanted to go back to the dark ages.

[Roberto Rosas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent collection of personal experiences from a former law enforcement officer, well rooted in his Catholic faith. For those who do not believe there is such thing as satan and his hordes roaming the world seeking the ruin of souls, I recommend you read this book and open your mind to the dangers we face in this world from the evil spiritual forces. Do not be afraid, be informed, and cultivate the faith in the one and only God who can deliver us from all evil.

[Lauren Amezcua · Rating 2 out of 5]

Where to start? Ok, ummm not a big fan. Some of the stories were interesting. However, the way the author went about trying to help these people deal with their issues was wrong (to me). Not once does he mention devotions to The Sacred Heart. It was more devotion to the divine mercy chaplet. Also, he mentions that he would taunt a prisoner. Would I read it again? Maybe, to get a better understanding so that I can talk crap about it later

[Joaquin Pericas · Rating 3 out of 5]

His encounters with the devil are interesting although I feel that there is a lot more I would like to know about each case and other cases from people he talked to. What happened to those people that were cured? Why are Mexican folks more likely to be afflicted by the devil? It feels like an incomplete story.

[Kris Ziegelhofer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I heard Jesse Romero speak at a Women’s conference. His real life experiences with Satanic serial killers and the possessed was riveting. His book really makes you think about the spiritual world around us. We underestimate demonic activity to our detriment and fail to appeal to our angels. Thought provoking read!

[Jeannette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book and easy read. The greatest lie of the devil is that he isn't real. Had to read it during the day LOL. I really liked that Jesse Romero backed his facts with biblical citations. I really wish they would translate this book in Spanish since a lot of the Hispanic culture can dabble in the occult if one is not careful. Looking forward to reading more of his books.

[Joy M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesse Romero writes beautifully and this book is an easy and interesting read. He gives the history of the devil, and references books about spiritual warfare, books written by exorcists and literary giants like C. S. Lewis as well as his own personal anecdotes to show how the devil plays with humanity. I love the bible quotes throughout, and the prayers at the end! Great job.

[Nina Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, A Page Turner!

Mr. Romero speaks plainly and directly without watering down or dumbing down Catholic teachings. He shares his experiences in order to raise our awareness of the supernatural and preternatural. The book ends with inspiration on how to stay focused on Christ as well as providing ancient prayers to assist us in keeping our awareness on Christ.

[Iseult Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book. Very interesting. So many people are giving themselves over to evil through the occult and need our prayers. Jesse also gives good advice on staying close to Our Lord and Our Lady, staying in a state of grace and receiving the sacraments often.