More than 22 years of law enforcement experience, alongside college teaching, field training, and curriculum development.
The beginning of an investigation sets the tone for what follows. Whether I am speaking with a victim, witness, or suspect, I pay attention to what my words, tone, and body language communicate. People bring their own experiences and expectations into an encounter with law enforcement. Some may anticipate disrespect or hostility before a conversation begins. An officer brings expectations as well. Recognizing those assumptions and avoiding a response that reinforces them is an important professional skill.
Throughout my career, I have learned to combine firmness, professionalism, and respect. Maintaining control and responding to danger are essential responsibilities, and treating someone with dignity is compatible with both. I want officers to understand how to communicate clear expectations, listen carefully, and avoid escalating an encounter simply because someone’s initial response is guarded or distrustful. Our conduct can influence whether a person feels willing to speak, cooperate, or share information.
This approach does not guarantee cooperation. There will be situations in which someone refuses to speak, regardless of how professionally an officer behaves. Even then, the encounter may matter later. Someone who withholds information today may reconsider because of how they were treated. My responsibility is to create the best opportunity for a productive conversation while maintaining the standards the profession requires.
What has shaped my career most is learning to treat people with professionalism and dignity, including when an interaction is difficult or unproductive. I cannot control every response or outcome. I can remain accountable for my own conduct and leave an encounter knowing I upheld the standards I want to be known for.
Huntsville Police Department
Investigate cyber enabled and financial crimes, including fraud, identity theft, forgery, credit card offenses, and financial exploitation of older adults. Analyze financial records, digital evidence, transaction histories, and money flows; conduct interviews; and prepare cases for prosecution. Coordinate with financial institutions, prosecutors, federal agencies, and law enforcement partners.
Huntsville Police Department
Served in patrol and investigative assignments. Conducted investigations, collected and preserved evidence, prepared reports, and testified in court. Served as a Field Training Officer for five years and on the Mobile Field Force for ten years. Provided arrest and control tactics instruction.
Martin Methodist College
Designed ten web based criminal justice courses and taught online and on campus. Created course materials and assessments, mentored students, and contributed subject matter expertise to campus safety panels.
New Hope Police Department
Performed patrol duties, responded to calls for service, conducted preliminary investigations, prepared reports, and collected and preserved evidence.