The nature of law enforcement comes with immense stress, leading officers to seek various coping mechanisms. Some engage in physical fitness or extreme sports, while others may turn to less healthy outlets like excessive drinking. A notable number of first responders, however, turn to tobacco—particularly cigars—as a form of relaxation and stress relief.

The prevalence of smoking among law enforcement officers is higher than in the general population, and some even take on side jobs in cigar shops. In a few cases, this side interest has led to the creation of cigar brands or key roles in the cigar industry. Below are some noteworthy examples of law enforcement officers who transitioned into the cigar world.

Traficante Cigar Company

Traficante Cigar Company’s origins are tied to law enforcement in a unique way. Mike Poe, a former law enforcement officer, founded the brand in 2015 as part of an undercover narcotics investigation. What started as a cover for his work evolved into a successful cigar company. Poe initially kept a low profile to maintain his undercover status, and the brand had little to no online presence until his retirement in 2017. Once retired, Poe fully dedicated himself to the business, expanding Traficante Cigar Company into a well-respected name in the industry.

Protocol Cigars

Founded in 2015 by two police officers from the New York Metropolitan area, Juan Cancel and Bill Ives, Protocol Cigars is a brand deeply rooted in law enforcement. Their cigars are named after police-related terms, such as “Jane Doe” and “Official Misconduct,” and some are named after legendary law enforcement officers like Bass Reeves, paying homage to their backgrounds.

After Ives left the company, cybersecurity expert Kevin Keith joined Cancel, ensuring that the company maintained its law enforcement character. All Protocol Cigars are produced in Nicaragua at the La Zona factory, which brings us to the next company on our list.

Espinosa Cigars

Although Erik Espinosa is not a former law enforcement officer, he is a well-respected figure in the cigar industry. Espinosa founded Espinosa Cigars and opened the La Zona factory in Estelí, Nicaragua.

His long-time friend, Hector Alfonso, a cigar enthusiast and Miami Police Department detective, joined him as a master blender. Alfonso retired from the police department a few years later to work full-time with Espinosa. Alfonso’s expertise and law enforcement background have been instrumental in shaping the cigars produced by Espinosa, including collaborations with Protocol Cigars.

Charity Efforts in the Cigar Community

Some cigar brands without direct law enforcement ties are involved in charitable causes. For example, the League of Fat Bastards donates 40% of its profits to support men’s mental health initiatives and works closely with law enforcement agencies. The company plans to release a special law enforcement-themed cigar soon, although the name remains under embargo.

Another notable organization is Smoking Shields, a fraternal group established in 2015 that unites law enforcement professionals who share a passion for premium cigars. Smoking Shields provides financial assistance to law enforcement officers, military personnel, and their families. The organization is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit and consists of active or retired law enforcement officers and military members.

Conclusion

These examples showcase how law enforcement professionals have found a place in the cigar industry, whether through creating new brands, blending cigars, or contributing to charitable causes that support their fellow officers. If you know of other examples, feel free to share them for a possible follow-up.