CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. — A new partnership between the Milan Police Department and J5 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is reshaping the way local law enforcement officers train for high-pressure encounters. The goal: fewer injuries, less reliance on tasers and pepper spray, and more confidence on the ground.
The partnership costs local governments nothing, interested officers need only dedicate their time.
The collaboration began organically, sparked by a simple connection— J5 Jiu Jitsu owner Joey Gonzales had been training Chief Carl Ustupski’s son in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. But the benefits became immediately clear. “I was watching ‘Professor’ Joey work with Carson,” said Chief Ustupski. “And I thought, ‘Man, that move right there could have saved us a use-of-force review two months ago.’” Jiu-Jitsu, a grapplingbased martial art, has grown popular in law enforcement circles for its emphasis on control over force. For Chief Ustupski, who spent nearly a decade with no defensive tactics training after the academy, the gap was glaring. “We’re expected to de-escalate dangerous situations, but most officers haven’t been trained to handle physical encounters without reaching for a tool,” he said. “Tasers fail. OC spray fails. You’ve got to have more than just gadgets.”
Joey Gonzales, a former professional fighter who opened J5 Jiu Jitsu in Grants, said the program is about more than just physical defense. “It’s confidence. It’s discipline. It’s about being in control without having to hurt someone,” he said. “We train kids, too. We do anti-bullying drills where they learn to use their words first, then techniques only if absolutely necessary. The same idea applies to officers.”
Through the national “Adopt A Cop” program, J5 Jiu Jitsu became the sixth gym in New Mexico certified to provide free Jiu-Jitsu training for police and first responders.
“We invited fire, dispatch, corrections, and state police,” Ustupski said. “We want everyone to benefit from this—not just physically, but mentally. It’s therapy, it’s stress relief. And when your body’s trained, your brain is calmer under pressure.”
Gonzales echoed that sentiment. “A lot of officers and first responders are dealing with stress, burnout, and trauma. Training jiu-jitsu gives you purpose, progress, and peace of mind. And yes, you’ll sweat a lot too.”
The chief admits he’s still early in his training— sporting a white belt with zero stripes—but says the lessons are already paying off. “We’re trying to prevent injuries, lawsuits, and deadly mistakes. This is a tool that could change everything.”
Double J’s mission isn’t just about police training. Gonzales sees a much bigger picture. “We’re trying to build confidence in kids, reduce violence in schools, and make this community stronger. When you walk with confidence, bullies leave you alone. When officers walk with skill, people stay safe.”
Classes are now underway, and while exact training days are not publicly shared for safety, Gonzales encourages any first responding agency or interested officer to reach out.
“We just want this to be used,” he said. “The door’s open. You just have to check your ego and step on the mat.”
New Partnership Aims to Cut Down Use of Force