From Bullying to Badges: The Inspiring Journey of DJ Daniel, Honorary Law Enforcement Hero
DJ Daniel, a 13-year-old brain cancer survivor from Texas, transformed from a bullied child wearing a police outfit to an honorary law enforcement officer across hundreds of agencies nationwide.
Recently honored as an honorary Secret Service agent by President Donald Trump in 2025, DJ’s story highlights his resilience, dedication to law enforcement, and advocacy for children with cancer.
Devarjaye "DJ" Daniel, a 13-year-old from Houston, Texas, has become an inspiring symbol of resilience, turning childhood adversity into a remarkable journey of recognition and honor within law enforcement communities across the United States. Diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer in 2018 and given just five months to live, DJ defied the odds, undergoing 13 brain surgeries and emerging as a beacon of hope for children battling similar challenges. His lifelong dream of becoming a police officer, coupled with his personal struggles, has not only captured national attention but also earned him honorary roles in nearly 900 law enforcement agencies—an extraordinary achievement for someone so young.
From Bullying to Bravery
DJ’s journey began under challenging circumstances. In a heartbreaking video that resurfaced on social media in 2025, DJ was shown being bullied and ridiculed by peers for wearing a police outfit, a uniform that symbolized his deepest aspiration. The harassment highlighted the struggles he faced as a child, but it also set the stage for an inspiring turnaround. Despite the cruelty he endured, DJ’s determination remained unshaken. His passion for law enforcement, sparked by his family’s interactions with police during recovery efforts after Hurricane Harvey in 2017, grew stronger, fueling his mission to connect with and honor those who serve.
Honorary Officer Across the Nation
Inspired by his admiration for law enforcement, DJ embarked on an ambitious goal: to be sworn in as an honorary officer by 1,000 police departments by his 13th birthday in late November 2024. By October 2024, he had already been recognized by nearly 900 agencies, including state police, sheriff’s offices, and city police departments across the U.S. and beyond. His visits took him to places like New York, where he was sworn in by the New York State Police Troop B, the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, and police departments in Saranac Lake, Plattsburgh, and Malone. Each ceremony not only honored DJ’s courage but also raised awareness for children with cancer, aligning his personal battle with a broader cause.
DJ’s interactions with law enforcement were marked by mutual respect and admiration. Officers and agencies welcomed him warmly, often citing his infectious enthusiasm and readiness—his father, Theodis Daniel, noted that DJ always kept a police shirt in the car, ready to don it for any swearing-in ceremony. These moments solidified DJ’s status as a beloved figure within the law enforcement community, showcasing how his dream transcended his medical challenges.
A Presidential Honor: Honorary Secret Service Agent
The pinnacle of DJ’s journey came on March 4, 2025, during President Donald Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress. In a moving moment that captivated the nation, Trump recognized DJ’s story, detailing his battle with brain cancer and his unwavering dream to serve as a police officer. In a historic gesture, Trump, alongside Secret Service Director Sean Curran, swore DJ in as an honorary Secret Service agent. This honor, broadcast to millions, underscored DJ’s resilience and the profound impact of his story, earning him standing ovations and widespread admiration.
The recognition was not without controversy. During the speech, most Democrats remained seated, prompting criticism on social media for their perceived partisanship. However, one Democrat, Rep. Laura Gillan, stood and applauded, later explaining her disappointment that more of her colleagues didn’t join in to honor “this little boy who is getting over cancer and wants to be a police officer.” This moment highlighted the bipartisan appeal of DJ’s story, transcending political divides.
A Legacy of Inspiration
DJ’s transformation from a bullied child to a celebrated honorary officer reflects his extraordinary spirit and the power of community support. His journey has not only fulfilled his personal dream but also inspired countless others, particularly children facing health challenges. By wearing the badge—whether as a Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper, a New York State Police officer, or now a Secret Service agent—DJ has turned his pain into purpose, advocating for cancer awareness while building bridges with law enforcement.
As DJ continues to pursue his goal of reaching 1,000 honorary roles, his story serves as a testament to resilience, courage, and the impact of chasing one’s dreams against all odds. From the playground taunts to the presidential podium, DJ Daniel’s legacy is one of triumph, leaving an indelible mark on both the law enforcement community and the hearts of those who follow his journey.