Facing Evil: A Cop's Story of Murder, Mayhem, and the Aftermath

by Scott J. Brown, Victoria M. Newman

On October 24, 2014, a thrice-deported evildoer and his wife engaged in a Bonnie and Clyde-like crime spree through the Sacramento (CA) region, killing Deputy Danny Oliver and Detective Michael Davis. They also severely wounded a third deputy and a civilian. More victims and witnesses were terrorized as a several-hour manhunt ensued, resulting in several carjackings and shootings. Schools and neighborhoods were put on lockdown. The effects of chaos reverberated throughout the region until both were taken into custody.

But it was only the beginning of a long journey of loss, grief, post-traumatic stress, and a painful trial. For years afterward, this day tormented the souls of many more officers, claiming marriages, careers, and peace of mind.Deputy Scott Brown, Oliver's partner and friend, was the first to face this evil and survive. With his wife, Liz, by his side, he embarked on a long and difficult journey through layers of grief, survivor's guilt and post-traumatic stress. Together, Scott and Liz continue to pursue healing, embracing a new mission to help others along the way.

“This is REAL—it is not a romanticized or dramatized version of a law enforcement career. Facing Evil represents what it is truly like to be a human being who wears a uniform and a badge. This book will punch you in the gut, touch your heart and open your eyes." Kathy H. Thomas, PhD., Warrior's Rest Foundation, Clinical Director

“Scott Brown takes readers to the authentic place where police officers in America live — the raw and untold sacrifices they make on the job and at home to keep us all safe. He describes in uncanny detail an event that shocked the country with the heinous headlines of a cop killer so filled with hate he couldn’t even contain his courtroom outburst years after his crimes.” Ty Steele, News Anchor

"Listen to Scott’s words! These are lessons and insights mired in road rash and shared with a level of vulnerability rarely seen in our profession, as he navigated the aftermath of the violent death of brothers in arms.” Jeremy Kopp, Undersheriff of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Montana

“Those who make this journey, together, share a special bond that only they can fully understand. This is a story of that special bond and the day two partners confronted evil ... and how triumph will continually rise out of that tragedy.” Jim Bontrager, Vice-President of International Conference of Police Chaplains

"Facing Evil tells of heartbreak, community, resource, deep faith, forgiveness (the toughest kind) and healing…after the abyss has had its turn looking long back into those who stand in that Thin Blue Line.” Karen Lansing, LMFT, BCETS

"Guided by faith and friendship, the author recounts how he overcame the “survivor’s guilt” that had nearly destroyed his spirituality, family and career. Facing Evil is a must read for every law enforcement officer and significant other!” Michael Stolzman, President of Northern California C.O.P.S.

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 29, 2021

Reviews

[Anna || annareadsnshares · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reads like a movie! Scott gives an intimately detailed description of what took place that horrible day, as he says, “the worst day of my life.” I was captivated from beginning to end! It taught me so much about critical incidents and what officers confront both emotionally and physically.

Scott relies on his faith in God, wisdom from Pastors, time in God’s Word, and spiritual counselors to walk the emotional upheaval of losing his partner to a madman. While this book is an excellent tool for LE families, ALL citizens would benefit from reading it. The aftereffects in this book will be helpful for ANYONE as you realize what it's like to be an officer, married to an officer, or a child of one.

I highly recommend you pick this up in ebook or hard copy format - it would be a great asset, especially if you're in the ministry and ever have to serve an officer or their family. Scott begins the book with a warning that some language is inappropriate for young readers - it's written like they spoke, so that would be my only caution.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first heard about this book when I worked with a retired Placer County sheriff's deputy who was involved in this incident; he told me the story first hand and recommended the book. It's hard to say this is a great book because it was written out of a horrible situation. However, it is a well written book, and I am so glad there are people like Scott who let God use their tragedy to help others. For those of us who are not in law enforcement, there is so much of the job that we don't understand, either with things witnessed and dealt with, or the stresses that affect relationships and home life. I hope every police officer, sheriff/deputy, law enforcement officer, and first responder can read this book and get the support they need. We appreciate your service and sacrifice.

[Randall Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an emotional roller coaster of a story. I won't admit to crying during parts, but there were probably some strong onions nearby. Scott's tale of resilience and perseverance through an unimaginably difficult situation was truly inspiring.

[Jenny Schofield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely phenomenal. I don't even have words to express how amazing this book is. It's personal, it's gut wrenching, it's powerful, it brought me to tears more times than I can count. I wish every cop, every spouse, everyone who loves a cop, and honestly, every single person who *doesn't* love or appreciate cops...could read this book! It will absolutely open your eyes to so many things, and it is powerful enough to literally change lives.

I am so thankful for Scott and Liz and their ability to be raw, real, and just open up their lives and their deeply personal story to us! I know that couldn't have been easy, and wow, what a labor of love to put it all out there in such an impactful, yet respectful way. And for all the lives they have touched and changed because of it, it's just incredible. What a way to honor and cherish the memory and legacy of those they lost.

I'm also thankful to Vicki and all that she has done for the LEO community..the impact she has made, the love and support she gives so freely. I know she poured her heart and soul into this project, and I appreciate all three of you more than I can say.

And this...this is huge...I wish every cop could hear this..like, truly HEAR it in their core, and take it to heart.

👇👇👇

"The macho 'I don't need to ask for help' mindset is strong in our law enforcement community. It's not helping. We all need something, even if it is simply knowing we are not alone." (Pg. 25)

"Stress and exposure will manifest themselves - cops don't leave this job without its imprint on their souls. Yet there's still an expectation that officers remain unscathed by the violence they see and experience, the human suffering they witness, the criminal coldness they encounter, and the threats they endure. Old school mindsets around law enforcement are still present, and they can be devastating." (Pg. 267)

"So let's ditch the stigma, and start a new trend of cops being healthy inside and out. After all, being half healthy is just no good."
(Pg. 256)

#nailedit

This book showcases an incredible journey through terror, horror, loss, grief, heartbreak, agony, and pain, to the redeeming power of love, support, faith, and forgiveness...All this along with hope and encouragement on how we can do better. Be better. Learn. Grow. Heal.

Even face unspeakable evil, and make it through to the other side.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a book of heros.