Symposium on Conscious Law Enforcement & Inclusive Practices

Sgt. Aquilino Gonell

Born in the Dominican Republic, Sgt. Aquilino Gonell arrived in New York City in 1992 as a young boy who spoke no English, carried two small bags, and stepped into a snowstorm with more hope than certainty. His early years in Brooklyn were marked by hardship. His father was mugged and shot shortly after his arrival, and he struggled academically as he tried to learn a new language and culture. After briefly returning to the Dominican Republic, his grandfather encouraged him to try again. Sgt. Gonell returned to the U.S., improved his grades, and eventually made the Dean’s List in college.

Determined to give back to the country that had given him an opportunity, he joined the U.S. Army Reserves in 1999. He deployed to Iraq for 545 days during Operation Iraqi Freedom II, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant and witnessing the brutal realities of war. After returning home and completing his degree, he continued his commitment to public service by joining the U.S. Capitol Police in 2006.

On January 6, 2021, Sgt. Gonell once again found himself on the front lines of history. As an armed mob attacked the U.S. Capitol, he fought to defend lawmakers, staff, and the democratic process itself. He suffered severe physical and emotional injuries that ultimately ended his 17‑year law enforcement career.

Today, Sgt. Gonell is a respected advocate for democracy, public safety, and the well‑being of law enforcement officers and veterans. He shares his story with communities, elected officials, and national audiences to strengthen trust, accountability, and the democratic values he has spent his life defending.