Sean Christopher Larkin, better known by his nickname “Sticks,” is a retired police lieutenant and television personality who gained national recognition as an analyst on the A&E reality series “Live PD.” Born on December 7, 1973, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Larkin became one of the most recognizable faces in police-focused television programming during the late 2010s and early 2020s.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Larkin’s path to law enforcement began in 1996 during an internship with the Tulsa Police Department. His famous nickname “Sticks” originated from an incident during this internship when he pursued and tackled a suspect on foot—something he wasn’t supposed to do as an intern without proper equipment or authority. His captain reprimanded him by calling him an “F-stick,” which was later shortened to “Stick” and eventually became “Sticks” when he joined the streets as a full officer.
Larkin officially joined the Tulsa Police Department in 1997 at age 23, beginning what would become a distinguished 24.5-year law enforcement career.
Police Career
Throughout his tenure with the Tulsa Police Department, Larkin served in various specialized units including patrol, narcotics, and gang assignments. He was promoted to supervisory roles, eventually overseeing the Narcotics Unit, the Organized Gang Unit, and ultimately retiring as supervisor of the Crime Gun Unit.
His extensive experience and dedication to law enforcement, particularly in disrupting criminal street gangs and reducing violent crime, made him a respected figure within the department and the broader Tulsa community.
Television Career and National Recognition
Live PD Era
Larkin’s television career began when he became a featured analyst on A&E’s “Live PD,” which premiered in October 2016. The show followed police officers during live patrols and featured Larkin providing expert analysis alongside host Dan Abrams and fellow analyst Tom Morris Jr.
His straightforward communication style and professional insights resonated with viewers, making him a fan favorite. “Live PD” became one of the highest-rated cable programs on Friday and Saturday nights during its run from 2016 to 2020.
Larkin also hosted the spin-off series “Live PD Presents: PD Cam,” which featured footage from police body cameras, dash cameras, and surveillance systems. The show allowed him to provide commentary and analysis on real police encounters captured on camera.
Post-Live PD Projects
When “Live PD” was canceled by A&E in June 2020 following nationwide protests over police brutality, Larkin transitioned to other television projects.
He became a co-host of “On Patrol: Live” on the Reelz network, which utilized a similar format to the original “Live PD.” Additionally, he launched “Crime Cam 24/7” on Fox Nation in 2023, a series that examines surveillance footage from crime scenes across the country.
Retirement and New Ventures
Larkin retired from the Tulsa Police Department on May 14, 2021, after nearly 25 years of service. While eligible for retirement since reaching his 20-year mark in 2017, he chose to retire to pursue television opportunities and other ventures.
Author and Advocate
In 2021, Larkin published “Breaking Blue: Real Life Stories of Cops Falsely Accused,” a book that shares real stories of police officers who were wrongly accused of misconduct and later cleared, often through body camera or dash camera footage. The book includes his own experiences with false allegations.
Philanthropic Work
Larkin founded a nonprofit organization called “STICKS Cares” (Support The Inner City Kids), which aims to help donors find effective ways to contribute to their communities and assist other nonprofits in finding funding. He also works with organizations like Best Buddies, which provides mentorship to children with special needs.
Legacy and Current Status
Sean “Sticks” Larkin remains a prominent figure in police-focused media and continues to advocate for law enforcement through his various platforms. His transition from street cop to television personality represents a unique journey in modern American media, where he has used his law enforcement experience to educate the public about police work while navigating the complex relationship between law enforcement and community relations. Through his books, television shows, and philanthropic work, Larkin continues to influence discussions about policing, transparency, and community safety, while building a media career that extends far beyond his original role as a Tulsa police officer.
