Danny Canete is a highly decorated law enforcement executive with more than two decades of frontline and leadership experience in one of the most elite tactical units in the United States. Serving as a Tier 1 SWAT Operator and Senior Corporal for the Dallas Police Department, Danny has distinguished himself as a trusted leader in high-risk operations, critical incident response, and public safety strategy. His deep operational expertise, combined with a powerful ability to instruct, mentor, and guide others through crisis and complexity, has earned him widespread recognition, multiple honors, and advisory board roles across the law enforcement and public safety ecosystem.

Over his 21-year career, Danny has led and participated in more than 2,500 tactical operations—ranging from hostage rescues and barricaded subject engagements to dignitary protection and sniper overwatch. His capacity to operate with precision under extreme duress has made him an invaluable resource to his department, his peers across the country, and to leadership teams seeking subject-matter expertise in risk management, operational readiness, and crisis planning. He currently serves full-time on one of the few Tier 1 SWAT teams in the country, operating with the highest standards of professionalism and mission preparedness.

Danny’s path to law enforcement excellence is as dynamic as his résumé. A classically trained musician and avid mountaineer, he developed early mastery in performance, discipline, and adaptability. This unique fusion of artistry and adventure translated seamlessly into a law enforcement career marked by strategic thinking, creative problem-solving, and leadership under pressure. Danny’s ability to connect with diverse individuals—from community members to federal agents—has defined his approach to policing and public service.

In his role as an instructor, Danny teaches law enforcement personnel from across the U.S. on tactical skills, high-angle operations, firearms, breaching, and critical incident leadership. He’s known for his commanding presence during professional debriefs and scenario-based training sessions, and is frequently invited to speak at SWAT and public safety conferences. His experience spans both the field and the classroom, allowing him to bridge practice with policy, and tactics with teaching.

Danny is a subject-matter expert in a variety of operational domains including explosives (energetic materials), sniper-level precision marksmanship, rappel-based insertion techniques, and Close Quarters Battle (CQB). As a master breacher, sniper, and rappel master, he brings unmatched field-level knowledge and technical proficiency. Beyond tactical execution, Danny has led efforts to secure over $500,000 in unit funding through grant writing and community partnerships, demonstrating a strategic acumen in both operations and organizational development.

Danny’s leadership and calm under fire have been tested during some of the most critical incidents in Dallas history—including the 2015 attack on Dallas Police Headquarters and the 2016 sniper attack on downtown Dallas, during which he earned the department’s highest honor: the Medal of Honor. His Medal of Valor and multiple other commendations further underscore his courage, judgment, and steadfast service to his team and city.

In his earlier career, Danny excelled in the Narcotics Division as an undercover detective, executing high-risk operations and developing long-term investigative identities that dismantled criminal enterprises, including Mexican drug trafficking organizations. His work with federal agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office led to high-profile prosecutions and earned him a reputation for initiative, thoroughness, and operational fearlessness. He also made over 1,500 arrests during his time with the Crime Response Team, targeting violent offenders and narcotics networks.

Danny’s commitment to service extends well beyond the SWAT team. He serves on the Crisis Management Academy Board at Haynes and Boone, LLP, offering consultation and training on emergency preparedness, contingency planning, and risk mitigation. He is also an advisor to the Liberal Arts Development Council at Colorado State University and co-produces a law enforcement-focused podcast titled Bridging the Divide for the Assist the Officer Foundation. These roles reflect his desire to give back, mentor, and foster growth within and beyond the law enforcement community.

As a person, Danny is known for his humility, tenacity, and authenticity. His personal passions include climbing, mountaineering, and music—activities that fuel his clarity, resilience, and leadership. Whether scaling mountains or navigating missions, Danny is grounded in purpose and unshaken in challenge.

Character:
Danny embodies courage, integrity, and humility, proven through decades of public service and peer recognition. He leads by example and remains mission-focused under the most demanding conditions.

Knowledge:
A master of tactical operations and strategic law enforcement, Danny combines technical field expertise with a strong foundation in teaching, grant writing, and leadership.

Strategic:
Danny has contributed to his unit’s growth and resource expansion through forward-thinking initiatives and cross-functional collaboration. His experience securing funding and shaping training programs highlights his broader vision.

Communication:
As a national presenter, debrief instructor, and podcast producer, Danny is an impactful communicator who brings clarity, relatability, and authority to his messaging—whether addressing tactical teams or civilian leaders.