Detective Nathan Gex

Award Application

What positions has this officer/deputy held within your agency?

Patrol Officer/ SWAT/ Narcotics Detective

Under the specific qualifications cited in our qualifications, please provide example(s) of what has this officer/deputy done that merits their nomination?

Detective Nathan Gex consistently demonstrates the core values of honor, integrity, courage, leadership, and service through both his investigative work and actions beyond routine expectations.

In 2025, Detective Gex played a leadership role in a major multi-jurisdictional narcotics investigation that resulted in historic seizures of cocaine, fentanyl pills, methamphetamine, marijuana, firearms, and significant drug proceeds. Recognizing early that the case extended beyond a single offender, he elevated the investigation, coordinated with federal and out-of-state partners, and helped dismantle a cartel-linked trafficking network supplying narcotics into Louisiana communities. His work reflects reverence for the law, commitment to quality enforcement, and dedication to public safety. 

Detective Gex also exemplified courage, composure, and respect for human life during an unrelated critical incident. Upon encountering a fellow officer facing an armed suspect, he intervened without hesitation, placed himself in harm’s way to divert the threat, and assumed a negotiation role under extreme stress. Through calm communication and sound judgment, he helped de-escalate the situation, which concluded peacefully without injury.

Throughout his career, Detective Gex has earned the trust of the community and the respect of his peers through ethical decision-making, leadership, and continuous improvement. His actions clearly merit recognition as Crime Stoppers Detective of the Year.

Is there a specific event which stands out that expresses how this officer/deputy has gone above and beyond the call of duty to assist?

One specific event that clearly demonstrates Detective Nathan Gex going above and beyond the call of duty occurred in May 2025, when his actions directly contributed to the preservation of life during a critical, high-risk incident outside his assigned jurisdiction.

While returning from an official investigative assignment, Detective Gex encountered a volatile law enforcement situation involving an armed felony suspect who was actively threatening a uniformed officer with a handgun. Without any obligation to intervene and despite the personal risk involved, Detective Gex immediately recognized the imminent danger and took decisive action.

Detective Gex repositioned himself to divert the suspect’s attention away from the officer, deliberately placing himself in harm’s way to reduce the threat. He assumed a leadership and negotiation role under extreme stress, engaging the suspect with calm, deliberate communication while maintaining tactical awareness. During the encounter, the suspect became increasingly unstable and threatened self-harm, further elevating the risk.

Through sustained dialogue, sound judgment, and composure, Detective Gex helped de-escalate the situation over an extended period, ultimately leading to the suspect’s peaceful surrender without injury to officers or civilians.

This incident stands out as a clear example of Detective Gex’s courage, selflessness, and commitment to public safety. His willingness to act decisively, beyond his assigned duties, exemplifies the highest ideals of law enforcement service and reflects conduct truly above and beyond the call of duty.

How is this officer/deputy described by their peers?

Detective Nathan Gex is consistently described by his peers as a highly experienced, dependable, and professional law enforcement officer. With over thirty years of service, he is known for his calm demeanor, sound judgment, and integrity, particularly in high-risk and complex situations. 

Peers view Detective Gex as a steady leader who leads by example. His background in tactical assignments in both Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, service in a federal task force capacity, and current role as a SWAT officer have made him a trusted presence during critical incidents. He is frequently sought out for guidance and mentorship when experience and composure are required.

In narcotics investigations, Detective Gex is described as methodical, ethical, and collaborative, with strong investigative insight and attention to detail. Above all, his peers describe him as reliable, selfless, and committed to public safety, consistently placing the mission and the safety of others above personal recognition.