About Us

O.C. Firearms Academy is comprised of military and law enforcement professionals with over 100 years of experience in the field of police and firearms competency. Our courses are designed for a multitude of individuals ranging from first time shooters to avid gun enthusiasts. At O.C. Firearms Academy, we understand that each person is different, which is why we have tailored our classes to each student’s levels of expertise.

All of our instructors are either retired or active police or military personnel. Each one has been handpicked to meet our high standards of customer service and firearms competency. You can be assured that each course you take with our academy staff will be the highest standard in the business because we never compromise! “Police Training to the Private Sector!” is not just our slogan, it is our personal commitment to our clients.

Meet our team

Tamar Deranteriassian

Tamar Deranteriassian

CEO

Tamar is CEO of O.C. Firearms Academy and Doheny Security Services. She has been a Reserve Deputy with L.A. County Sheriff's Department since 2010. Tamar is an active Executive Protection agent and Risk Management Consultant. She holds an M.A. in History with a specialization in Latin American affairs from Cal State University, Northridge.

Kerri Derwin

Kerri Derwin

Operations Manager

Kerri Derwin is the OC Firearms Academy Operations Manager. She has been with the company for over 6 years in many capacities. She is knowledgeable in training Security personnel and is a licensed Live Scan fingerprinting operator. Want to take any class with OC Firearms Academy? Kerri is your first point of contact. She is always willing to help you with any questions or concerns you might have. Give her a call!

Rick Freeman

Rick Freeman

Instructor

Rick is a retired Police Sergeant with almost 20 years law enforcement experience, and served as the Sniper Team Leader on their department SWAT Team. He also has over 32 years experience carrying CCW. Rick is a Certified BSIS Firearms Instructor, CCW Certification Course Instructor, NRA Certified Pistol Instructor and a CA DOJ Certified Pistol Instructor.   Rick also works as one of our instructors during our Shoot Nights.

Edwin Harrison

Edwin Harrison

Instructor

Nine years US Marine Corps. Sergeant. NRA Basic Pistol Instructor working with both our CCW clientele and our primary presenter for our Basic Firearms introductory courses.