Former police officer turned author McCarthy Barnes Jr. has announced his latest novel, Bottle and the Badge: A Cop’s Journey from Addiction to Atonement. Inspired by his own experiences of recovery, the book aims to show that it is possible for individuals, especially police officers and other first responders, to overcome alcohol addiction. Bottle and the Badge is the first installment of a planned trilogy, with the second book expected for release on September 1, 2025.

“Being a police officer, seeing the things I saw, experiencing the things I experienced, I understand how alcohol addiction can become prevalent,” Barnes says. “It’s a culture, a coping mechanism that many turn to during difficult times. It can be a way to manage the pressures of the job, which can be extremely challenging.”

Jobs with high levels of stress have been shown to correlate with increased substance use. A study suggests that around 30% of first responders may experience some form of substance use disorder. The same study found that around 18% of male officers and 16% of female officers reported issues related to alcohol use.

According to Barnes, many officers not only struggle with alcohol addiction and other dependencies but are also stigmatized for seeking help or emotional support. “In the department, there are places you can seek help, like through the employee assistance program,” Barnes shares. “However, officers often worry that they’ll be labeled as weak for seeking support.” Having personally experienced this stigma, Barnes founded Police Officer Sobriety Support Enbloc (POSSE) as a way to give back and support those in need.

His goal was to create a safe space where officers and other first responders could share their experiences and receive support without the stigma or labels. “Through POSSE, officers don’t have to go through their department. They can come to us for help at no cost.”

With the release of Bottle and The Badge, Barnes aims to continue his mission of assisting officers in need. Influenced by his own experiences, the book follows the story of David Nigeria, a police officer traumatized by his job and turning to alcohol to cope. The book’s purpose, according to Barnes, is to send a message of hope to officers struggling with addiction—showing that recovery is possible. “The main character, David Nigeria, is trying to quit, but like many people facing addiction, he’s not ready. He’s quitting for the wrong reasons—because of others, not for himself,” explains Barnes. “The key to overcoming addiction is discovering your personal reason for quitting. This realization often comes after hitting rock bottom. Throughout the narrative, readers see David go through this process until he finally discovers his ‘why.’”

The second installment is expected to be released on September 1, 2025, a date significant to Barnes, as it is his daughter’s birthday. The second book continues the story of David Nigeria as he works toward his recovery and seeks out healthier coping mechanisms after discovering his personal reasons for change.

To broaden his mission, Barnes also founded Posse Publishing LLC, through which his books are published. Not only does Posse Publishing highlight the often untold stories of police officers and their struggles, but it also serves as a way to educate and support officers, first responders, their families, and friends—who may also be impacted by alcohol and other forms of addiction.

Barnes is currently working on the third book in the series and expects to announce a release date soon. In the meantime, Barnes remains committed to helping those in need by sharing his experiences through his writing and the tireless efforts of Police Officer Sobriety Support Enbloc.

“We all face struggles. We all encounter situations that seem overwhelming,” Barnes says. “My writing and my work are there to show that recovery is possible, and that there is no shame in seeking support, being vulnerable, and doing what is necessary to heal. Everyone deserves a little help.”

Disclaimer: The views and experiences shared in this article are based on the author’s personal journey and his observations. The content provided is not intended as medical advice, and individuals struggling with addiction should seek professional support and guidance.

Published by Joseph T.