Gary Backous Lieutenant, Support Services Commander

Story County Sheriff’s Office

Lt. Gary Backous has been with the Story County Sheriff’s Office since 2002, where he has served as a Detention Officer, Deputy Sheriff, Tactical Team Member, Policy Writing Specialist, Dive Team Supervisor, and Support Services Sergeant.  In 2017, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant where he is currently the Commander of the Support Services Division.  In that role he oversees the pre-employment interview process, firearms program, Sheriff’s Reserve Unit, Dive Team, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Team, training, contracts, and internships. 

Lt. Backous has a BA in Criminal Justice from Buena Vista University and Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati. He represents the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) and serves as the Secretariat to the Department of Homeland Security- Emergency Services Sector Coordinating Council (DHS-ESSCC).  Lt. Backous is a consultant for the National Institute of Justice on the ASTM E54 Committee on Homeland Security Applications.  He has assisted a number of agencies throughout the country on pre-employment and promotional interviews, and is the Nationwide Recruiting Coordinator for BCAT Consulting.  Lt. Backous is a graduate of the 276^th session of the FBI National Academy.

Ted Barnard Lieutenant

Page Police Department

Lieutenant Ted Barnard has been in Law Enforcement for 24 years.  He retired from the Kane County Sheriff’s Office, Utah, in 2021 and moved to Page, Arizona and has been with the Page Police Department, currently assigned as the Support Services Lieutenant.  He began his career in Corrections and soon transferred to patrol.  He quickly found his passion in K9 and has been a handler, trainer and judge since 2003.  In addition to traveling to China, he has traveled all over the country training SWAT Operators, K9 handlers and their dogs.  

Lt. Barnard has had numerous Sergeant assignments with a wide array of responsibilities, 15 years SWAT experience, and served as a School Resource Officer.  He is a certified FBI General Instructor and has taught a variety of topics throughout the country. 

He currently oversees the Page PD K9 Division’s two single purpose narcotics dogs in addition to the Communications Division, Criminal Investigations, Crime Scene Specialists and Property and Evidence.  He is the first law enforcement-certified EyeDetect+ Proctor in the state of Arizona to utilize the device for law enforcement pre-employment.  In his free time, Lt. Barnard enjoys coaching the Page Sand Devils Basketball team, and spending time with his family, especially his three grandsons. 

Stephen William Benson II Sergeant

DC Metropolitan Police Department

Sergeant Stephen William Benson II is a dynamic professional whose career seamlessly blends public safety service with marketing expertise, demonstrating how diverse experiences can enhance modern law enforcement. From his beginnings as a 9-1-1 call taker and instructor to his current role as a leader in the DC Metropolitan Police Department, Sergeant Benson has consistently leveraged his communication skills, emergency response expertise, and marketing acumen to foster community relations and elevate police recruitment efforts.

Before joining law enforcement, Sergeant Benson excelled in experiential marketing for Fortune 500 companies, developing high-impact content and managing complex projects. These experiences laid the groundwork for his innovative approach to law enforcement marketing, where he has served as a lead producer for recruitment and engagement content at MPD.

A recognized storyteller, Sergeant Benson has directed over 50 marketing and recruitment videos that underscore the human side of policing. In 2021, his work earned the Fox Nation Patriot Award for showcasing an MPD officer’s life-saving actions, and in 2023, his project, We Are More Than Officers, was named Police1’s Top Police Recruitment Video of the Year. Most recently, his talent garnered an Emmy nomination at the 66th Emmy Awards for a Public Service Announcement (Single Spot).

Armed with advanced degrees in Business Administration and Marketing, Sergeant Benson continues to redefine law enforcement communication, blending his passion for public safety with cutting-edge storytelling. His contributions are leaving a lasting impact on his department and the broader community.

Mike Boward Sergeant

Fort Collins Police Department

Mike Boward has over 28 years of law enforcement experience, including over 24 years at his current agency in Fort Collins, Colorado.   He is a Sergeant assigned to the Fort Collins Police Personnel and Training Unit.   Previously he served as a Patrol Sergeant and a Training Officer in the Personnel and Training Unit where he coordinated recruiting, police officer hiring and background investigations.  Boward served as a Criminal Investigations Detective for over six years prior and was a Field Training Officer.   Boward has taught numerous courses locally and around the nation, including Recruiting and Hiring Strategies, Robbery Investigations, Auto Theft, and Criminal Interdiction.  He is a Lead Skills instructor in police driving and is the Fort Collins Police Academy supervisor.  Boward earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications from Andrews University.

Ettice Brickus Lieutenant Colonel, Deputy Chief of Patrol, Area 2 Commander

Baltimore Police Department

Lieutenant Colonel Brickus joined the Baltimore Police Department in 2001 and is a proud resident of the City of Baltimore. She currently serves as a Deputy Chief of Patrol. Her most recent command assignment was as the Commanding Officer of the Recruitment and Applicant Investigations Section, as well as the Commanding Officer of the Administrative Duties Division. Previous assignments include Patrol District Commander, Patrol Operations/Vice, Command Investigations, Management Services, Information Services, Records Management, Central Records and Certified Police Instructor. She holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Law Enforcement and Correctional Administration from Baltimore City Community College, a Bachelor and Master of Science degree in Management from The Johns Hopkins University, a Master of Science in Education degree and a Graduate Teaching Certificate from The Johns Hopkins University, and a Criminal Justice Leadership Certificate from University of Maryland University College. She is also an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives in Leadership (NOBLE) and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). Lastly, she is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Policing (SMIP), Session 85.

Yasmin Brown Assistant Chief, Patrol Services

Maryland-National Capital Park Police

Assistant Chief Yasmin Brown has 22 years of law enforcement experience with the Maryland-National Capital Park Police (Prince George's County Division). Prior to her employment with the Park Police, she served as a dispatcher with the Prince George's County Police Department for 4 years. During her tenure, she has served as Patrol Officer, Mounted Officer, Patrol Sergeant, K-9 Unit Supervisor, Field Training Officer, Field Training Program Coordinator, Patrol Lieutenant, Support Operations Lieutenant, Investigative Operations Captain/Assistant Chief and currently Support Operations Captain/Assistant Chief. Her responsibilities include management of the day-to-day operations of the Communications Division, the Records Section, the Technology Section, and the Training Division. She serves as the lead General/Academic instructor, Master EVOC instructor and lead Defensive Tactics instructor for her agency, as well as a guest instructor at the Prince George's County Police Academy. She also serves as an instructor at the Prince George's Community College Municipal Academy. She attended the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command in 2015 and she completed the IACP Leadership in Police Organization in 2017. She is a dynamic leader with a passion for the profession, a passion for leading, and a strong passion for fostering career development for subordinate employees through training and mentoring. She has been instrumental in building and maintaining positive relationships with other agencies and community leaders and coordinating efforts between multiple agencies for positive operational outcomes. "My personal goal is to develop a police force that is known for its professionalism and dedication to its officers and to the community that it serves."

Jo Castaños Talent Acquisition Specialist, Career Team

Colorado Department of Corrections

Jo Castaños is a Talent Acquisition Specialist for the Colorado Department of Corrections. They came into the Department 2.5 years ago and has actively engaged and worked closely with both staff and incarcerated individuals to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all. With eight (8) years of experience in interpersonal communication and branding, Jo has established a reputation for creating impactful strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. As a gender nonconforming person of color, they bring a unique perspective to the law enforcement community, infusing creativity and authenticity into every project.

Throughout their career, Jo has been instrumental in progressing the efforts of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) within the Colorado Department of Corrections. Believing representation is crucial in all aspects of life, they had the privilege and honor of serving the GRAACE (Gender, Race, Ability, Awareness, Culture, Equity) Alliance since they started with the Department. They acted as staff ambassador for the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility (CTCF) committee and as co-chairperson of the Incarcerated/Re-entry subcommittee. While with the CTCF GRAACE Alliance, Jo assisted with the first ever Culture Fest and later helped coordinate a Veteran’s Day flag raising ceremony, a zen garden, and an art show! Jo also played a pivotal role in the subcommittee by helping other facilities develop their GRAACE Alliance committees.

Jo is committed to advocating for marginalized voices and fostering environments where everyone feels valued, heard, and safe to be their authentic selves. Their work is driven by the belief that true innovation comes from diverse perspectives and that inclusive practices lead to stronger, more resilient work places.

When they’re not at work, Jo participates in local community theater and has recently started a non-profit organization called “Threads of Hope” dedicated to providing handmade crocheted items to local homeless shelters and people in need.

Mike Crawford, BSCJ, MA Lieutenant, Recruitment and Training Division

East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office

Lt. Mike Crawford, BSCJ, MA, currently serves as the Recruiter for the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office.  He began his career with the Sheriff’s Office at the Parish Prison in 1998 and has worked in various units including D.A.R.E., Public Information Officer, Training, and as the Purchasing Director, where he oversaw all assets, public bids, and procurements and was awarded “Supervisor of the Year- Civil Division”.  Under the tenure of Sheriff Sid Gautreaux, III, Crawford also served as the Chief of Operations, where he supervised, Criminal Records, Computer Operations, Uniform and Equipment, Construction Services, Fleet Operations, and Radio Services. 

Lt. Crawford attended Southern University and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and a Master of Arts in Homeland Security (Security Studies) from the Naval Postgraduate Schools’, “Center for Homeland Defense and Security”. Prior to working for the Sheriff’s Office, Lt. Crawford served (6) six years in the United States Marine Corps and was awarded “Marine of the Year” in 1999.  He is certified as a FBI Crisis Negotiator, Louisiana P.O.S.T. Instructor, and a Southern Law Enforcement Foundation - Peer Support Member.

While maintaining a busy regime, Crawford is the Lead Diversity Instructor for the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement Chief’s Academy, a consultant to many Public Safety agencies on the subject of “Diversity and Inclusion”, and is a public speaker.  He has attended countless professional schools, with his most recent achievement being a Cohort Graduate of the Baton Rouge Business Report’s, Leadership Academy-2023 Spring Cohort.  

Having served as the Honor Guard Commander for many years, Crawford has assisted several fallen families throughout his career.   With a fervent desire to help others, Crawford acts a liaison with several non-profit organizations that assist citizens and their families in East Baton Rouge Parish.  He does this all while being the Musical Director at his church, a published author, (“9-1-1…What’s Your Diversity?”), a husband, and the proud father of two beautiful adult daughters.

Brisa Daniel Hiring and Recruitment Coordinator

Surprise Police Department

With nearly 14 years of experience in the field, Brisa Daniel has established herself as a knowledgeable and dedicated professional, recognized for her expertise in identifying and recruiting talent.

Throughout her career, Brisa has worked in various capacities within the recruitment and human resources sectors. Her extensive background has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the hiring process, employee relations, and organizational development. Brisa's commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and her ability to connect with candidates have made her a valued asset in every organization she has been a part of.

Brisa has contributed to the development and implementation of initiatives that promote employee engagement and retention. Her collaborative approach and strong communication skills have allowed her to build lasting relationships with both candidates and colleagues alike.

Brisa continues to be a leader in the recruitment industry, leveraging her extensive knowledge and passion for helping others find their ideal career paths.  As she moves forward in her career, Brisa remains focused on making meaningful impacts in the lives of individuals and organizations alike, ensuring her contributions resonate.

Dr. Tracie Keesee Associate Professor

University of Virginia

Co-founder, Center for Policing Equity

Dr. Tracie L. Keesee is a retired 25-year veteran of the Denver Police Department and former Deputy Commissioner of the New York Police Department. Dr. Keesee works to improve equity within law enforcement agencies and the vulnerable communities they serve. To do this, she works closely with communities to ensure their voices are centered in the co-production and redesigning of public safety systems. She also uses data-driven and evidence-based interventions to help law enforcement agencies receive the resources needed to create more equitable outcomes and reduce harm.

Dr. Keesee served as Project Director of the Department of Justice-funded National Initiative for Building Community Trust and Justice and is the Co-Founder of the Center for Policing Equity (CPE). This research center provides decision-makers with data, stories, and relationships to facilitate bold, innovative, and lasting change. Dr. Keesee took a sabbatical from CPE in 2016 to serve the New York Police Department in several roles; first, as the Deputy Commissioner of Training for Commissioner William J. Bratton, directing the implementation of transformative initiatives, including restructuring the recruitment curriculum.

Subsequently, she served as the first-ever Deputy Commissioner of Equity and Inclusion for Commissioner O'Neill, where she was responsible for the overall organizational development and implementation of NYPD's Equity and Inclusion strategic framework. During this time, she also advised the Police Commissioner on implementing accountability systems that monitor training, recruitment, employee opportunities, and complaints to help increase the organization's ability to attract and retain an inclusive and diverse workforce. Dr. Keesee returned to CPE in 2018 as the president until accepting a full-time associate professor position with the University of Virginia School of Professional and Continuing Studies.

In 2021, Dr. Keesee was appointed by the U.N. Human Rights Council President to serve as a member of an expert mechanism tasked with advancing racial justice and equity for Africans and people of African descent in the context of law enforcement around the world.

Dr. Keesee holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Metropolitan State College-Denver, academic certifications in Public Policy and Public Administration and a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Colorado at Denver, a Ph.D. in Intercultural Communications from the University of Denver, and a Diversity and Inclusion Certification from Cornell University. She is also a graduate of the 203rd Session of the FBI National Academy at Quantico, Virginia. Dr Keesee has published numerous articles across various collected anthologies and peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Tiffney Lindley Sergeant, Recruitment and Training Division Supervisor

Fayetteville Police Department

Tiffney Lindley began her law enforcement career in 2005. She served with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, and the University of Arkansas Police Department. On March 9, 2009, she began her career with the Fayetteville Police Department. She was assigned to night shift patrol, where she served as a law enforcement instructor, Field Training Officer, Drug Recognition Expert, and Car Seat Technician.

In 2015, she was promoted to the rank of Corporal. In 2017, she was assigned to the Community-Oriented Policing Division, where she served as a Public Information Officer, Social Media Administrator, police department community events planner, Strategic Self-defense and Gun-fighting Tactics instructor, and Fayetteville Police Department Recruiter.

In 2020, she was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and supervised a patrol shift of 14 officers.

In 2021, she was assigned as the supervisor of the Special Operations Division, in which she completed operational and safety plans for large-scale events within the city, such as Razorback Football games and protests. She also supervised the Motorcycle Patrol Division and Entertainment District Patrol Division while serving in Special Operations.

In 2022, she was assigned as the supervisor of the Recruitment and Training Division, where she currently serves. She is responsible for recruitment, new officer testing, background investigations, recruit pre-academy training, the 18-week field training program, and training for all sworn members of the Fayetteville Police Department.

Kimberly Maki Recruitment and Retention Officer

Washington State Patrol

Kimberly Maki has been with Washington State Patrol as the agency Recruitment & Retention Officer for 2 ½ years. The majority of her work with WSP is to develop strategies, partnerships, marketing products, and advertising campaigns that increase applications for both sworn and civilian positions while also retaining current personnel. In previous roles she managed and directed national service programs for AmeriCorps/VISTA and managed workforce development programs for a Washington state agency focused on health related services for senior populations. She has a particular focus and interest in reaching out to potential applicants who are underrepresented in the law enforcement workforce. When not working, she enjoys baking (and trying every cookie recipe ever written), playing pickleball, road-tripping with her girlfriend, and hosting dinners for her family. 

Anton Maltby Deputy

Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office

Deputy Anton Maltby has served with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office for the past 24 years, where he has worked in every area command in the County as a patrol deputy. In 2008 Deputy Maltby was selected to join CSI as a crime scene detective and in 2011, was selected to be a Drill Instructor for Academy Cadet Class 31, where he mentored and oversaw the instruction given to the cadets. After the cadet class graduation in 2012, Deputy Maltby and another peer were tasked with revamping an aging hiring program at their department. Over the past 12 years, Deputy Maltby, along with his partners, accomplished the following:  streamlined the hiring process by creating a highly efficient in-house database and background system; cut down the length of the hiring process by months without compromising standards; and created programs like the Hiring Workshop, PT with a Recruiter, Agency Open Houses and Show Cases. Deputy Maltby has spoken with thousands of potential applicants, helped several hundred people through the hiring process and seated 13 cadet classes. He has dedicated himself to making sure his agency and community recruit some of the finest law enforcement officers in the Southwest.

Todd Mickelsen Chief Executive Officer

Converus

Todd Mickelsen is the founder, president and CEO of Converus Inc., makers of EyeDetect, the world’s first credibility assessment solution to measure deception in the eyes. He has 35 years of high-tech senior management experience in business development, sales, and product management at start-ups and established software companies such as Microsoft.  Todd is a Science & Technology member of the American Polygraph Association and holds a B.S. in marketing from Brigham Young University. 

Dominic Morrocco Chief Executive Officer

RecruitApp.ai

Dominic has been developing and implementing software solutions since 2001, leading multiple ventures that span both enterprise systems and consumer-facing platforms. His broad technical experience and background in organizational strategy inform his analytical approach to problem-solving and operational improvement. Throughout his career, he has focused on aligning technology with practical goals—streamlining workflows, enhancing user experience, and improving measurable outcomes. 

In addition to his entrepreneurial work, Dominic served as a sworn and professional staff member with the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC. As the Director of the Strategic Engagement Office, he collaborated closely with the recruitment division and command staff to develop and launch innovative, data-driven technologies, resulting in a 40% increase in qualified applicants. 

Now, as the CEO of RecruitApp.ai, Dominic leads a platform dedicated to transforming the hiring process for agencies. RecruitApp.ai leverages data analytics and intuitive digital tools to streamline recruitment workflows, improve candidate assessment, and deliver actionable insights. By focusing on simplicity and efficiency, RecruitApp.ai empowers agencies to attract and evaluate top talent more effectively, ensuring better outcomes for their recruitment efforts. 

Shandra J. Mutchie Recruitment Coordinator

Utah Department of Corrections

Shandra is the Recruitment Coordinator for the Utah Department of Corrections. She came to the UDC from Capitol Hill, and with her help and strategies, they were able to gain a full staff, ending mandatory overtime. During her time at the UDC, she has helped to improve public perception of the UDC, created an internship program, shifted company culture in a positive direction, and helped unify the divide between certified and civilian staff. 

She holds a master's degree in leadership, spent 10 years in EMS, trained as a funeral director, and dispatched for police, fire, and medical in Utah. She is also a professional cosplayer, and has been featured at conventions and events around the world.

Patrick Oliver, PhD Associate Professor and Director of the Criminal Justice Program

Cedarville University

Dr. Oliver has a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, a master’s in business administration, and a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change. He has served as Chief of Police for the cities of Fairborn, Grandview Heights, and Cleveland, Ohio. He has also served as Ranger Chief of the Cleveland Metropolitan Park District. Along with serving as a criminal justice professor for Cedarville University he also serves as a consultant and trainer with the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, and the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police. He is also a past commissioner for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, and a past president for the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, He is the founder and director of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executive’s Mentor Program for aspiring police chiefs. He is a Certified Law Enforcement Executive. He serves as a Peer Reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission. He is the former Lead Consultant for the Ohio Governor’s Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment. He is the author of the book, Recruitment, Selection, and Retention of Law Enforcement Officers

Micheal Reyes Recruiter

Utah Department of Corrections

I began my law enforcement career in 1999 as a Correctional Officer. During this time, I gained a solid understanding of the criminal justice system and the importance of rehabilitation. I later transitioned to the role of Bailiff in various courthouses across Salt Lake County, where I acquired valuable experience in maintaining courtroom order and assisting judges.

In 2013, I took a significant step forward by joining the Utah Department of Corrections as part of the training academy and In 2023, I was promoted to the role of recruiter for the department.

Before my career as a correctional officer, I served as a member of the Utah Air National Guard recruitment team. This experience sharpened my outreach and communication skills, allowing me to connect with individuals who share a commitment to service and leadership.

Outside my professional life, I deeply love the great outdoors and often spend my weekends camping with family and friends. I also enjoy baking and frequently experiment with new recipes in my kitchen. Above all, I am a proud mother of two children.

Bob Rossi, Ed.D, Leadership and Curriculum Administrator

Phoenix Regional Police Academy

Bob Rossi. Ed.D., is the Leadership and Curriculum Administrator at the Phoenix Police Academy. He came to the Academy after almost 40 years in higher education. During the past seven years Bob has applied his four decades of teaching and leadership expertise to the field of law enforcement.  

Since joining Phoenix PD, Bob has significantly increased the academic performance of recruits while building capacity for the training staff. In 2022, his redesign of the Academy model increased the number of officers trained by 75% over the previous year’s number. 

Bob has developed and presented curriculum for Certified Police Instructors and Field Training Officers who want to master easy and effective ways of sharing their knowledge with fellow officers. He has redesigned the promotional processes to focus on leadership competencies.  

Serving as a consultant, thousands of Certified Police Instructors and Field Training Officers from nearly every agency in Arizona have attended Bob’s course with tremendous success. Many participants credit the course with dramatically influencing their teaching style.   

His presentation of “The Ultimate Academy” for the Global Consortium of Law Enforcement Training Executive Conference grabbed the attention of academy leaders who have tapped into Bob as they redesign their academies for the new generation of recruits.  

Bob is also an adjunct professor at Northern Arizona University teaching graduate courses in Criminal Justice.   

A native New Yorker, he has lived in the metropolitan Phoenix area since 1969. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Education and a master’s degree in Counseling from Arizona State University. He received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2002.   

Bob’s is passionate about working with leaders and instructors in a coaching and mentorship role. His goal is to develop leadership capacity for the future of law enforcement to better serve our communities.  

Kristine Rzewnicki Sales Engineer and Implementation Consultant, Vetted

NEOGOV

Kristine Rzewnicki joined NeoGov following a 13 year career in law enforcement with the Leesburg Police Department in northern Virginia. During her time with Leesburg Police she worked in Patrol, Criminal Investigations, and Recruitment and Training where she conducted background investigations for nearly 5 years. She is passionate about ensuring that public safety agencies have the tools needed to vet applicants faster and make informed decisions with confidence.

William Slaton Captain, Recruitment Services Division Director

Pennsylvania State Police

Captain William C. Slaton is a 17-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police.  Prior to enlisting with the Pennsylvania State Police, Captain Slaton was a lifelong resident of Camden, New Jersey. 

Camden, New Jersey, for many years was ranked as the most dangerous City in America.  This was due to Camden’s high crime, extreme poverty, and public corruption.  However, Captain Slaton managed to navigate all of these barriers and he subsequently joined the ranks of the Pennsylvania State Police.

As a member of the Pennsylvania State Police, Captain Slaton quickly rose through the ranks to become a Trooper, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and now a Captain, where he currently serves as the Director of the Recruitment Services Division for the Pennsylvania State Police. 

Throughout his career, Captain Slaton has served in many prestigious roles; roles such as, Hostage Negotiator, Hate Crimes and Civil Tension Section Commander, Staff Services Section Commander, and Patrol Section Commander. 

Captain Slaton’s work has been widely recognized by the FBI, The US Attorney’s Office, The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, The Pennsylvania State Legislature, The Anti-Defamation League, The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, The NAACP, as well as Federal Authorities as far away as Germany.        

Chris Smith Deputy

Larimer County Sheriff’s Office

After a career in the business world, Deputy Chris Smith joined the Larimer County Sheriff's Office, where he has served for 14 years. He has held roles as a jail deputy, Field Training Officer, and Instructor. Currently managing compliance, Deputy Smith is also an active background investigator, conducting thorough investigations to ensure the hiring of qualified and capable personnel. He has been the driving force behind revamping the process and incorporating technology to enhance these efforts for his agency.

Steven Soyka Sheriff

Stearns County Sheriff's Office

Steve Soyka was elected as Sheriff of the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office (St. Cloud MN) in November 2018, assuming the role in January 2019. During his 33+ year career in Law Enforcement, starting in 1991, he has worked at 2 Sheriff’s Offices and has performed several roles within those agencies. These roles include patrol officer, patrol supervisor, undercover narcotics, bike patrol, field training officer, investigator and medical examiner investigator. He was a member of a 2 county SWAT team, acting as an operator, team leader and team commander. He also commanded a 20-person multi-agency Violent Offender Task Force for several years. He was an explorer in his youth and has volunteered for numerous years for his agencies Youth Law Enforcement Explorer Program teaching the future generations about the public safety profession.

Sheriff Soyka advocates the team philosophy within his agency and further pushes a commitment to community engagement. Sheriff Soyka is involved with his local Fraternal Order of Police lodge serving as its president for the past 5 years. He volunteers his time with several community organization’s and serves on board positions with several of these organizations such as the Lions club and a regional senior center.

Jessica L. Staats, MS, MA Culture Coach, Senior Authority

Colorado Department of Corrections

Jessica L. Staats serves as the Culture Coach, Senior Authority with the Colorado Department of Corrections. Within this current role, Jessica serves as a trusted consultant to both internal and external stakeholders alike through the concerted development and implementation of institutional character profiles for all nineteen (19) prison facilities and  nineteen (19) parole offices throughout the state of Colorado to enhance staff, community, and offender experiences through the cultivation of engagement, and strengthened partnerships to improve department-wide retention and recidivism rates. 

She has had the privilege of serving the citizens of Colorado since 2021, and began her career with CDOC in 2022 as the Department’s first Talent Acquisition Workforce Leader. Jessica led an exceptional team of talent acquisition and networking specialists, to create the first dedicated unit tasked with improving retention, recruitment, and employee engagement through the integration of innovative marketing strategies which included a heightened focus on social media and multimedia advertising campaigns that showcased the #CDOCFamily. Likewise, Jessica spearheaded synergized collaboration between internal divisions and special teams to enrich the employee experience, whilst augmenting the CDOC’s equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDI-B) strategies.

Jessica’s professional expertise also includes extensive experience advancing recruitment, public relations, marketing, and diversity initiatives with Rockingham County Schools, as well as institutions such as The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and North Carolina Central University. She has leveraged her passion for making meaningful impacts in the lives of others through an unwavering dedication to the continued growth and successful trajectory of the teams she leads and the organizations that she proudly serves. 

A native North Carolinian, Ms. Staats completed her B.A. in Spanish Language and Literature from the University of North Carolina Asheville, and her M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Mid-America Christian University. She was also awarded her M.S. in Spanish–English Translation and Linguistics from New York University. Outside of the office, Jessica enjoys reading poetry, traveling with her boyfriend Darren, and going to the movies with her daughter Emily.

Graham Tinius Executive Board Member

National Association of Field Training Officers

Graham Tinius is a Park Police Officer and a Field Training Officer with the Sandy Police Department in Sandy, UT, where he patrols 41 local and regional parks and over 110 miles of mixed-use trails. Graham has a degree in Evidence Technology from Phoenix College. He began
his career as a Crime Scene Technician with the Chandler (AZ) Police Department in 2001. In 2004 he was hired as an officer and promoted to Field Training Officer in 2007.

In 2009, Graham assisted in rewriting the Field Training Program at Chandler PD. Graham is the
recipient of a Meritorious Service Award, as well as a Unit Citation Award for his work in redesigning the Field Training Program and its implementation within the department. Since receiving his General Instructor Certification from Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training
in 2007, Graham has taught numerous classes, including Cultural Diversity, Adult Learning, Leadership, Ethics, Officer Safety, and Basic and Advanced FTO Schools for local, county, and state law enforcement across the Country, as well as US Army civilian police, civilian police and
sheriff staff, and supervisors. He has taught FTO schools to agencies across the country, from California to New Jersey, Florida to Washington, and as far away as Guam and Hawaii.

In 2017, Graham was the recipient of the Champion of Hope Award, for designing and helping
to implement a recovery and treatment program for opiate addicts. Graham is an Executive Board Member, the Training Coordinator, and an Instructor for the National Association of Field Training Officers. Graham is also a member of the International Law Enforcement and Educator
Training Association.

In 2019 Graham moved his wife and two sons to Sandy, UT, to enjoy a colder climate and be closer to the Wasatch Mountains. Within law enforcement, Graham’s passions are training, instructing, proactive policing, and quality of life issues.

Bryan Villanueva Trooper, Recruiter

Washington State Patrol

Trooper Bryan Villanueva has been with the Washington State Patrol since April 2018 and has been on the Human Resource Division Recruiting team since January 1, 2021. He joined the United States Navy as an Information Systems Technician in April 2014 and served until April 2018. He was able to grow and learn valuable skills while serving our country. He also utilizes his rough upbringing to connect with today’s youth and inspire the next generation to show why they should join a great agency like the Washington State Patrol. He enjoys speaking with youth groups, K-12, colleges, and military installations when in uniform. He enjoys spending the rest of his time with his wife and two daughters outside of work.

Erin Wannow Sergeant, Recruiting

Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office

Sergeant Erin Wannow has served with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office. She has received an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice and is working towards a Bachelor’s Degree. Erin worked for 10 years as a patrol deputy with a variety of assignments from patrol, community liaison and administrative deputy. She was promoted to the rank of Detective in 2015 and worked person’s crimes, property crimes and criminal intelligence. Erin was certified as a Crime Analyst and helped facilitate the intelligence led policing model into the organization. In 2018, Erin was promoted to Forensic Investigation. For four years she was responsible for crime scene processing, evidence processing and attended the Federal Law Enforcement Training center CSI course and then was promoted to Sergeant in 2022. As a sergeant, Erin has worked patrol and is currently assigned as the recruiting sergeant at the Wichita Sedgwick County Law Enforcement Training Center. Erin is the recipient of the bronze medal of meritorious conduct, two time Salute the Badge recipient. She is also the South Central Regional Coordinator for the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Council. In her free time, Erin enjoys the outdoors, running and gravel bike riding and most importantly is a mother of two amazing boys.

Nikki Woodrow Sergeant, Pre-Employment and Recruiting

Wichita Police Department

Sergeant Nikki Woodrow has served with the Wichita Police Department for 23 years. She has received a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, a Master’s degree in Leadership, and currently working towards a Doctor of Education in Higher Education and Leadership. Nikki worked 12 years as a patrol officer, then became a detective and served in the Gang and Felony Assault Unit for 2 years before being promoted to the rank of Sergeant. As a sergeant, Nikki has worked in a variety of sections including patrol, Special Community Actions, Community Policing, Public Information Unit, and currently working pre-employment and recruiting for the Law enforcement training center in Wichita. Nikki is the recipient of a Midwest American Red Cross Law Enforcement Hero of the Year award, the International Association of Chiefs of Police top 40 under 40 leadership award, and through her department has been awarded the Bronze Wreath of Merit, Distinguished Service, and a Civic Achievement bar. Her other full-time job is being a mom to her 7 year old son and 4 year old German Shephard/ Mastiff. 

Kristen Wright-Van Meter Deputy

Thurston County Sheriff's Office

Former Recruiting Sergeant, Arizona Department of Public Safety 

12 years in law enforcement, prior Savannah Chatham Metro PD (6 years with 3.5 years as narcotics detective), 6 years AZ DPS (3 years Phoenix graves, 2 years Drill instructor at State Trooper Academy, promoted in September of 2020 directly into the Recruiting Unit.) Arizona POST certified Physical Test Instructor, ISSA certified personal trainer and OCB (organization of competitive bodybuilding) figure competitor

Morgan Zerbe Detective, Recruiting Coordinator

Pima County Sheriff’s Department

Detective Morgan Zerbe has served the communities of Greater Tucson, Arizona with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department for more than a decade. Beginning her law enforcement career as a patrol deputy, Detective Zerbe also worked as a Crisis Negotiator with the Pima Regional SWAT team, holding both assignments for 6 years. Always seeking ways to educate and uplift her fellow deputies and the incoming recruits, Detective Zerbe has been an AZPOST Certified General Instructor for the past seven years and served as a Field Training Officer and Detective Training Officer. Before moving to her current role as Recruiting Coordinator for the department, she was assigned to the Crimes Against Children Unit of the Criminal Investigations Division for four years.

Prior to her career in law enforcement, Detective Zerbe studied psychology and worked in customer service for over 15 years. She brings this experience and a passion for teaching and serving others to the approach she employs in her recruiting efforts.