Cops, Criminals, and Christ

We talk about why you can dodge problems on the street but you cannot run from them in prison, and how that pressure exposes what we really believe about repentance and grace. We also dig into 26 years of incarceration, the discipline of living for a “freedom date,” and why taking life one day at a time is both survival and faith. • grace versus trying to “do your own time” • commitment to God compared to marriage versus dating • serving 26 years and the cost of time you cannot get back • the “freedom date” mindset and staying focused to get home • DC, Maryland, and Baltimore identity inside different systems • how money, canteen, and phone time shape prison survival • toughness, respect, and why anybody can lose • cell life, hygiene rules, and adapting to confinement • central cell block stories from both sides of the door • conspiracy charges, consequences, and starting over • learning to live one day at a time and “stop digging” If you want to become a Christian, you gotta take a plea. Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

We talk with a former inmate about how prison forces you to face conflict head-on and why respect and staying out of other people’s drama can keep you alive. We trace his path from a tough DC-area upbringing to decades behind bars, then close with fatherhood advice, practical skill-building, and a clear picture of grace and commitment to Christ. • why avoiding problems works outside but fails in prison • how unresolved issues fester under lockdown conditions • the role of scarcity jealousy and survival mentality in jail • growing up on the DC Maryland line and earning respect • first incarceration for second degree murder and doing time in Maryland • why there are no secrets in prison and reputation travels • mind your business and respect as non-negotiable rules • getting out building a family then returning to drug trafficking • how conspiracy cases form and what a 210-month federal sentence costs • federal prison classification transfers and the strain on family visits • staying connected to kids through communication and perspective • learning skills education and the reality of prison pastimes • the gospel as a courtroom story and the call to repent Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

In this episode, Dale Sutherland, The Undercover Pastor, sits down at the Los Angeles Dream Center with founder Matthew Barnett to explore how a 400,000-square-foot former hospital became a home for 600 residents, a kitchen feeding over a thousand people a day, and a launchpad for second chances.From Skid Row to courtrooms, the Dream Center operates like a grand central station for mercy: yearlong recovery programs, GED classes, Scripture memorization, and daily rhythms that move people from survival mode to sustainable growth. Matthew shares the unlikely origin story—purchased from the Catholic Church to preserve a legacy of compassion—and the leadership shift that shaped everything: die to success, live to bless.You’ll hear the bridge story of an 18-year resident of the streets who finally said yes, graduated the program, and went on to Bible school. You’ll meet Daniel, a former gang member shedding both a face tattoo and an old identity. Together, we unpack partnerships with judges and local police who sentence people to the program instead of jail, and we wrestle honestly with relapse, return, and why a 70% graduation rate still leaves room for radical grace. Shame is often the first barrier—vision is the first medicine.We also dig into micro-compassion: the quick, practical help that restores power after a fire or fills a fridge for a family crushed by rising rent. Along the way, Dale and Matthew reflect on how the work changes the worker—trading five-year plans for a lifetime calling, swapping platform for presence, and discovering freedom in responding to the next need at the door.If you’re hungry for proof that redemption scales, this conversation delivers grit, Scripture, and a blueprint for patient, city-wide change.If this episode moved you, tap follow, share it with a friend, and leave a review telling us which story sparked hope for you. Your words help more people find their way to a second chance.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

From border politics to prison ministry: Dale Sutherland (The Undercover Pastor) interviews Saul Ramirez, who grew up on the U.S.–Mexico border in Laredo, Texas.Power, pressure, and integrity: Saul shares his rise from city council to mayor at 32, navigating corruption, faith awakening, and leadership under scrutiny.A faith redefined: A Gideon Bible and a missionary’s prayer shifted his understanding of success—from good works to grace-filled calling.National influence, lasting impact: Saul reflects on serving at HUD, advancing affordable housing and community planning beyond political cycles.When doors close, purpose opens: After politics, Saul rebuilt in the private sector—then stepped into jail ministry, leading Spanish worship and Bible study for incarcerated men.Hope behind locked doors: A raw conversation about surrender, repentance, forgiveness, and following Jesus when life doesn’t go as planned.If this moved you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so others can find the show.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

We talk through 12 common things Christians assume the Bible says, but it actually doesn’t. Not because those ideas are always “bad,” but because confusing Christian culture with Scripture can create unnecessary guilt, fear, and pressure.Former police officer and pastor Dale Sutherland is joined by Pastor Nate for a grounded conversation covering:1. The Bible does not say every Christian will feel a “calling” for every decision.2. The Bible does not say you will have total peace in all circumstances.3. The Bible does not say your words or thoughts mystically create reality.4. The Bible does not say every Christian’s destiny is big or public.5. The Bible does not say you will always enjoy reading the Bible more than everything else.6. The Bible does not say everything in the world is evil.7. The Bible does not say all Christians will experience God the same way.8. The Bible does not say Scripture verses alone cure all anxiety or mental-health struggles.9. The Bible does not say godly people with faith never get sick.10. The Bible does not say suffering automatically means God is displeased with you.11. The Bible does not say faithful believers won’t experience emotional distress.12. The Bible does not say it’s selfish to pray for your own needs.If you’ve ever felt like you were “failing” at Christianity because your experience didn’t match what you heard from others — this one is for you.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

Navy SEAL, Todd Peters, and The Undercover Pastor, Dale Sutherland  talk candidly about TBI, PTS, suicide risk, HBOT, and the plan to launch Rally Points  to help others heal. This episode covers:• choosing spiritual impact over tactical careers• Stronghold Alliance mission and model• chronic migraines and HBOT breakthrough• treating TBI and PTS without stigma• the invisible wound and family fallout• Rally Points as weekly brotherhood• training facilitators and partnering churches• credible access to military and law enforcement• funding treatment packages and scaling goals• stories of lives changed and sustained hopeLet's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

We wrestle with deadly force from the street to Scripture, weighing policy shifts, gritty case stories, and the tension between justice and mercy. We look at how a holy God judges sin, why any of us still live, and what true accountability should require.• defining deadly force beyond firearms• shift from fleeing felon doctrine to imminent threat• why “unarmed” does not always mean safe• two DC cases and missing context in headlines• human reactions after shootings and moral weight• sin, holiness, and divine judgment in Scripture• Korah’s rebellion and Acts 5 as warnings• the cross as perfect justice and perfect mercy• reframing the question toward grace and accountabilityLet's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

A Navy SEAL turned pastor talks to the Undercover Pastor about how combat, cold-water survival, and hard training shape character and faith. Stories from Panama to Alaska reveal why gentleness is strength under control and why real salvation begins when self-rescue ends.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

We trace the thief beside Jesus from likely crimes and arrest to trial, prison, and crucifixion, then turn to the shocking promise of paradise and what it says about grace. Law, guilt, and mercy collide as we ask who deserves a gift no one can repay.• bandit tactics in Judea and the meaning of lēstēs• how Romans used informants and undercover work• swift Roman trials and brutal prison conditions• the mechanics and purpose of crucifixion as deterrent• the thief’s confession, Jesus’ innocence, and the promise• how ancient reciprocity clashes with New Testament grace• why trying to repay God distorts the gift• a new community where merit does not rank people• standing in grace for cops, criminals, and everyoneLike, comment, subscribe, and let us know what you think after you listen on this episode of Undercover Grace with the Undercover Pastor.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

Dale Sutherland interviews longtime friend Lon Solomon in a powerful episode sharing Lon’s radical transformation from Jewish drug dealer and Woodstock hippie to devoted follower of Jesus and megachurch pastor. Discover how an encounter with Jesus changed his life forever and why it’s never too late to find hope and redemption.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

Dale Sutherland shares the story of Joy Tan-Chi Mendoza, who survived a violent home invasion and sexual assault when she was 15 years old. Joy is joined by her mother, Deonna Tan-chi, in this heart-wrenching yet inspiring conversation. They share how faith, forgiveness, and community support transformed their trauma into a testimony that has helped countless other survivors.• Joy was assaulted by armed robbers who invaded her family home in the Philippines when she was 15• Despite the trauma, Joy experienced supernatural peace amid the attack, reciting Psalm 23• Joy and her friends collectively decided to forgive their attackers within days of the assault• Going public with their story created space for other assault survivors to share their experiences• Joy's mother faced her own spiritual crisis but chose to trust God would use even this trauma for good• The family's approach to healing centered on seeing circumstances through the lens of who God is, not judging God by circumstances• Joy describes healing as an ongoing journey, with complete restoration coming in heaven• The family's testimony demonstrates how community support prevents isolation that compounds traumaYou can hear the full story in Joy Tan-Chi Mendoza’s book When a Good God Allows Rape, and you can find Joy on instagram as @joytmendoza.If you're struggling with trauma or pain in your life, remember that real help is available, and healing is made possible through faith, forgiveness, and community. Greater is He that's in us than he that's in the world. Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ, history's greatest crime, began with an intimate betrayal by one of his closest companions, Judas Iscariot, who delivered him to authorities for thirty pieces of silver.• Unlike the other disciples who came from Galilee, Judas was from Judea• Judas was so trusted that Jesus appointed him treasurer of the group• No other disciples suspected Judas would betray Jesus at the Last Supper• Scripture says "Satan entered Judas," indicating spiritual warfare• Judas knew Jesus' private prayer locations and routines• The religious leaders were "delighted" when Judas offered to betray Jesus• Judas identified Jesus with a kiss—the ultimate symbol of friendship turned to betrayal• Despite being betrayed, Jesus prayed "Father, forgive them"• Judas couldn't live with his guilt and committed suicide after returning the money• Jesus knew Judas would betray him but chose him anyway, showing his remarkable loveCome back to explore more crimes in the Bible through the eyes of a detective—rapes, murders, kidnappings, and what they teach us about scripture and faith.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

Ivan, a former cop and current pastor, shares his journey from alcoholism to sobriety and how his relationship with Christ transformed his life. His story powerfully illustrates that addiction's root cause is universal across all struggles—whether substance abuse or other sins—and only Christ can provide true healing.• Ivan describes himself succinctly as "a cop, a criminal, and now with Christ"• He details how he manipulated AA meetings and testing requirements while still drinking• The cycle of addiction involved thousands of empty promises to quit• Ivan explains why hitting "rock bottom" doesn't lead to repentance—only God's goodness does• The difference between secondhand Christianity and personal relationship with Christ• How sanctification is a process rather than a single moment of transformation• Ivan highlights 2 Corinthians 5:21 as the "exchange" that changed everything• Six years sober, Ivan credits seeing himself as a new creation in Christ• The importance of empathy for both cops and criminals in understanding struggle• Finding freedom by following Jesus rather than relying on willpowerLet's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What happens when the person meant to uphold the law finds themselves on the wrong side of it? In this raw and powerful episode, we meet a former police officer whose dream career spiraled into alcoholism, culminating in his own arrest for DUI.The journey begins with his childhood dream of becoming a police officer—a dream he achieved at age 20. But beneath the badge lurked a growing addiction that would eventually cost him everything. Despite interventions from colleagues and supervisors, his drinking escalated to dangerous levels. Even after his arrest and the humiliation of being handcuffed by fellow officers, he continued drinking, seemingly unable to break free from alcohol's grip.The turning point wasn't what you might expect. It wasn't jail time or losing his job that finally broke through—it was a profound realization about identity. Standing in a liquor store with bottle in hand, he experienced what he describes as a spiritual awakening: he wasn't just trying to be a "good Christian," he was a son of God. This shift from performance-based religion to relationship fundamentally changed his perspective, though recovery would still take time.Perhaps the most powerful moment came when, once again unconscious in his car, he was discovered not by police but by family members. Their difficult but genuine forgiveness provided a tangible experience of grace that proved transformative. Six years sober now, he serves in ministry to families experiencing trauma—from childhood cancer to abuse situations—bringing the same compassion and understanding that saved him.Whether you're struggling with addiction, know someone who is, or simply appreciate stories of profound transformation, this episode offers hope that no matter how far you've fallen, redemption remains possible. Listen now to discover how rock bottom became the foundation for a completely transformed life.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

In this episode, Dale Sutherland shares his powerful journey from childhood panic attacks to confronting life-threatening situations as an undercover police officer. Discover how he learned to face fear head-on by blending cognitive behavioral therapy techniques with his faith. Whether you struggle with anxiety or simply want to understand how to live courageously despite fear, Dale’s story offers practical lessons and encouragement for anyone walking through their own fears.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What could buying drugs as an undercover cop possibly have in common with sharing the gospel of Jesus? As it turns out, quite a lot.Dale Sutherland spent decades working undercover narcotics cases while simultaneously nurturing a passionate commitment to sharing his Christian faith with everyone he met. In this fascinating conversation with his daughter Kristen, Dale reveals the surprising skills that transferred between these seemingly opposite worlds.The art of persuasion stands at the center of both endeavors. Whether convincing hardened criminals he was a strip club owner or helping someone understand their need for spiritual salvation, Dale developed exceptional abilities in building rapport, telling compelling stories, and creating environments where people would listen. "You have to have confidence, you have to be passionate, you have to walk up to a group of people you don't know," he explains, describing both worlds with equal accuracy.This episode explores the theological foundations driving Dale's evangelistic passion while offering practical wisdom for Christians who feel intimidated about sharing their faith. His perspective balances urgency about eternal destinies with trust in God's sovereignty, creating space for both determined action and peaceful rest. "Most Christians don't fall into the category where they're too judgmental when sharing their faith," Dale observes. "Most of us fall into the category where we're just not sharing our faith at all."Perhaps most valuable are his closing thoughts for different personality types. Not everyone possesses Dale's natural gift for conversation, but he offers creative alternatives anyone can implement: email evangelism, gospel tracts, using technology like the Jesus Film app, or creating simple opportunities for delivery drivers to receive both practical refreshments and spiritual information.Whether you're a seasoned believer looking for fresh evangelism approaches or simply curious about the unexpected connections between law enforcement and ministry, this episode delivers thought-provoking insights about authentic human connection and communicating what matters most.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

From policing the streets to pastoring a mega church, Dale Sutherland's extraordinary leadership journey offers rare insights for anyone making tough decisions that impact others. Join us as this former cop turned pastor reveals his battle-tested leadership principles that work in any arena. Discover why you must choose who to make mad, how to navigate failure, and why leadership at home matters most. Whether you're leading a team, a family, or yourself, Dale's authentic approach to godly leadership will transform how you handle authority, responsibility, and the inevitable risks that come with making the call.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

Thirty years ago, The Undercover Pastor played a role in the arrest that sent this man to prison. Now, the two sit down face-to-face to talk about that day, the fallout, and the powerful redemption only Christ can bring.They explore the fear of reconnecting, the complexity of defunding the police, what happens when a cop struggles, and the importance of owning your part in any story. This is more than a conversation — it’s a story of transformation, forgiveness, and unlikely reunion.Subscribe for more powerful stories about law enforcement, former criminals, and the hope we all can find in Jesus.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What really goes on behind the scenes as an undercover cop? Dale Sutherland, retired DC police Sergeant and current pastor, along with host, Kristen Crew, take us back to hear what life is like as an undercover cop. It's easy to talk about the successful big cases, but in this episode they dive into close calls Dale faced on the job. Dale talks about an unfortunate circumstance that nearly cost him his life, his brave coworkers facing gunfire, a time he almost got attacked by baseball bats to get robbed, and more! Discussion about faith amidst life and death circumstances makes this episode unique to any other podcast you will hear. Whether you are near or far from death, or near and far from God, this one is a must listen.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What really goes on behind the scenes (BTS) as an undercover cop? Dale Sutherland, retired DC police Sergeant and current pastor, along with host, Kristen Crew, let the audience listen in on a conversation they had between podcast recordings about Dale's ADHD brain, it's impact on his thinking, his work, and his faith. It gives an insightful look at the strengths and struggles behind the success of his life.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What really goes on behind the scenes as an undercover cop? Dale Sutherland, retired DC police Sergeant and current pastor, along with host, Kristen Crew, take us back to hear what life is like as an undercover cop. It's easy to talk about the successful big cases, but in this episode they talk about a few of the undercover police cases that have gone wrong. Dale is honest about mistakes he made and how to grapple with faith in the midst of the stress and mistakes he made.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What really goes on behind the scenes as an undercover cop? Dale Sutherland, retired DC police Sergeant and current pastor, along with host, Kristen Crew, take us back to hear how he just barely escaped death. In this episode,  you will hear about his work with a dangerous group that ultimately planned his demise. They give an inside look at how he came out alive, the outcome of the case, and touch on how Dale navigated being a man of Christian faith in this role.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What really goes on behind the scenes as an undercover cop? Dale Sutherland, retired DC police Sergeant and current pastor, along with host, Kristen Crew, take us back to hear how he set up a fake recording studio and became into Richie Valdez in order to buy guns, drugs, and stop major robberies in DC and up the east coast. In this episode, you will be on the edge of your seat as the story builds and Dale explains how they were minutes away from a dangerous bank robbery happening on his watch. They give an inside look at the thinking of an undercover cop, the outcome of the case, and touch on how Dale navigated being a man of Christian faith in this role.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com

What really goes on behind the scenes as an undercover cop? Dale Sutherland, retired DC police Sergeant and current pastor, along with host, Kristen Crew, take us back to hear how he transformed into an Italian mobster to buy drugs and build a case over time would lead to significant arrests. They talk about the outcome of the case, touch on how this impacted his home life, and how he navigated being a man of Christian faith in this role.Let's connect!Instagram: @theundercoverpastorFacebook: @theundercoverpastorTik Tok: @theundercoverpastorYoutube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastorWebsite: theundercoverpastor.com