Peacekeepers, Police Reform & Pandemics: Contemporary issues and challenges in law enforcement

Peacekeepers, Police Reform and Pandemics: Contemporary issues and challenges in law enforcement

This presentation will discuss the effects controversial police use of force have had on law enforcement and public sentiment, and how it has impacted law enforcement in Whatcom County.  Topics will include public trust and the Defund the Police movement, challenges with recruitment and retention, recent legislative changes to police tactics and use of force, deployment of body worn cameras and response to persons in mental health crisis.  The presentation will also examine recent crime trends during a pandemic.

Bio:

Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office since 1994. (27 years of service)

1994-1997       Patrol Deputy

1998-2000       DEA Task Force Officer – Drug Enforcement Administration

2000-2002       Narcotics Detective – Northwest Regional Drug Task Force

2003-2005       ATF Task Force Officer

2005-2008       Patrol Sergeant

2009-2010       Patrol Lieutenant

2010-2019       Chief Criminal Deputy

2019-present  Undersheriff                                      

Additional duty assignments

Field Training Officer

Firearms/Use of Force Instructor

SWAT Team Leader

SWAT Team Commander

Fair and Impartial Policing Instructor

Active Shooter Instructor

Education

Western Washington University (1993) – Bachelor of Science

FBI National Academy (2014)

Affiliations

FBI National Academy Associates

FBI Law Enforcement Executives Development Association

International Association of Chiefs of Police

National Sheriff’s Association

Toastmasters International

WA Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs

Whatcom Community College Criminal Justice Advisory Board