Little could stand in Debra Gauthier’s way. A marathon runner, Debra excelledin the police academy, garnering respect as one of the few female police officers in Las Vegas. However, through her twenty-one years on the police force, Debra faced discrimination in the male-dominated profession, suffering demotions and unsafe working conditions when other officers would not provide backup. In addition to the disappointment of injustice, she struggled with her sexuality, becoming entrenched in a homosexual lifestyle. After establishing an identity as a respected police officer, Debra was devastated when her career crumbled. Bright Lights, Dark Places thoughtfully expresses the painful reality of combating biased attitudes and the joy that comes from surpassing limitations. Packed with fascinating stories of a vibrant career, from teaching at the academy to pioneering a bicycle patrol, Bright Lights, Dark Places gives you an inside look at the career of one of the first female officers in Las Vegas. You will be encouraged by this powerful story of one woman finding grace to overcome trials.   “Bright Lights, Dark Places is an incredible story of the power of God to transform a broken life. This book gives a very candid and revealing look into the world of law enforcement. But most of all, it gives you a glimpse into the very heart of God.” — Ben R. Peters, founder of Open Heart Ministries and Kingdom Sending Center                  Debra Gauthier served as a police officer with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department from 1980 to 2001 and was one of the first women hired under the same standards as the men.

In 1995 Ms. Gauthier was honored as a finalist in the legal category for Women of Achievement and won that award in 1997. She was recognized as one of the Distinguished Women in Southern Nevada in 1997. Ms. Gauthier attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and has a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts, 1979, and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, 1990.