Eric Harden began his ATF career in 1990 as a Special Agent in Los Angeles, California, focusing on firearms and narcotics trafficking and criminal street gangs. In 1999, he was promoted to the position of Supervisory Special Agent, leading several offices within the Los Angeles Field Division. Eric was relocated to Washington, DC, in 2003, where he worked on drafting national-level firearms trafficking regulations. In 2005, he returned to Los Angeles to serve as the Supervisory Special Agent of the Los Angeles Field Division (LAFD) Major Case Group. Under his leadership, the group prosecuted some of the Division's 39 most notorious investigations, resulting in the indictment, arrest, and federal prosecution or plea of over 500 defendants who received 10-year, 20-year, or life sentences.Eric played a pivotal role in the development of the ATF-led Violent Crime Impact Team (VCIT) initiative, which aimed to tackle severe criminal activities across targeted regions in the United States. By integrating advanced technology and analytical resources, the initiative fostered collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to effectively identify, disrupt, and prosecute high-profile criminals. In addition, Eric held the position of Supervisory Special Agent of the Los Angeles Intelligence Group. In this capacity, he led a diverse team dedicated to gathering and analyzing intelligence, ensuring the delivery of timely and precise information to combat violent crime effectively. Eric’s leadership in both roles underscores his commitment to enhancing public safety through innovative strategies and collaborative efforts.Alongside his investigative efforts, Eric's role as a member of the ATF Special Response Team equipped him with unique insights and tactical skills, enabling him to address the complexities of gang-related issues with a multifaceted approach. Through collaboration and innovation, he strived to foster lasting change and support for those impacted by violence.Eric's career took a notable turn when he was appointed to Special Agent in Charge (SAC) for the LAFD in October 2015, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey. During his tenure as the SAC, Eric played a pivotal role in overseeing ATF operations across Southern California and Yuma, Arizona. His extensive experience equipped him with the skills necessary to manage complex investigations and ensure public safety. After 27.5 years, he retired on December 31, 2017. His legacy includes impactful initiatives for public safety and community relations.