Riley has spent more than 32 years in law enforcement in the states of Colorado, California and New Mexico, including serving in positions of sheriff and police chief. At the same time, he has maintained continuous employment in the security field and is certified as an armed security office, working alongside the Secret Service in both the United States and Great Britain. He is the recipient of several letters of commendation and service awards. He is an NRA certified instructor in several firearms disciplines and is also certified in the use of PR-24 Baton, MEB Baton (AASOP styles), TAZER guns, less-lethal munitions shotguns, 40mm projectile guns, Stun-Cuff, PPCT and OC pepper spray. He is a longtime Red Cross volunteer as a CPR and first aid instructor. He and his family enjoy most outdoor activities, including cowboy action shooting.