Memorial Services Held for Dr. Dave Minister of Leather

Los Angeles:  It is with great sadness and regret that the Los Angeles Police Department announces the death of 56 year-old David Lee Briggs Sr., aka “Dr. Dave Minister of  Leather.”

Mr. Briggs passed away suddenly on Tuesday, February 24, 2009.  Mr. Briggs has been a fixture on the ground floor of Parker Center for the last 21 years.  He assisted Department employees of all ranks by ensuring they had an extra shine on their shoes and leather gear.  All of us mourn his passing, but take comfort in the knowledge that he lived his life well and provided faithful and loyal service to the men and women of the Los Angeles Police Department.

Chief William J. Bratton said, “It did not matter if you were the Chief of Police or the newest officer, Dr Dave’s standard for spit shined leather was second to none.  He was just as much a member of the LAPD family as any of those who benefited from and at times took full credit for his work.  Born David Briggs, over 20-year’s time, he became known to all as Dr. Dave – the Parker Center Minister of Leather.  Truth be told, he ministered to us in more profound ways. His care for our leather was surpassed only by his honest advice and listening ability.  All future spit shines will be judged by the high standards of a man who enriched our lives.  Parker Center will never be the same.”
 
Mr. Briggs was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on October 6, 1952.  He is survived by his son, David Lee Briggs, Jr.