Adam Gilstrap
Easley,SC
Summary
Seasoned Chief of Police with 19 years of experience in law enforcement. Adept at budgeting, performing personnel management and operation management. Sound knowledge of security standards, policies and procedures.
Dedicated Police Supervisor with proven success at building high-performing teams and controlling crime. Productive and positive communicator with public and other law enforcement. Transforms crises into orderly solutions.
Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chief of Police
City Of Liberty
07.2007 - Current
- Leveraged social media platforms for effective communication with the public about important safety alerts, events, and department news updates.
- Implemented community-oriented policing initiatives, strengthening trust between officers and citizens.
- Developed comprehensive training programs to ensure officer preparedness, resulting in increased professionalism and performance.
- Reduced crime rates by establishing an intelligence-led policing model and targeting high-risk offenders.
- Managed a multi-million-dollar budget, consistently delivering services within fiscal constraints while maximizing available resources for crime prevention efforts.
- Increased staff retention by providing opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and career advancement within the department.
- Effectively managed crisis situations utilizing negotiation skills along with tactical command thus mitigating threats posed to public safety.
- Collaborated with other law enforcement agencies to enhance regional security and information sharing capabilities.
- Enhanced departmental efficiency with streamlined processes and updated technology systems.
- Oversaw major investigations including homicides, drug trafficking operations, and financial crimes leading to significant arrests and convictions.
- Developed and maintained positive relationships with media outlets, ensuring accurate and transparent coverage of departmental activities at all times.
- Improved community safety by implementing proactive policing strategies and fostering strong relationships with local organizations.
- Championed officer wellness initiatives focusing on mental health support, physical fitness programs, and stress management strategies to promote overall well-being among personnel.
- Championed the use of data-driven decision-making tools to inform resource allocation decisions and address emerging crime trends proactively.
- Conducted investigations to identify suspicious activities, violations of policies and regulations and potential threats.
- Developed and implemented security policies, procedures and systems to protect personnel, property and data.
- Researched and maintained current knowledge of security trends and technologies to apply best practices and strategies.
Store Manager
Oreilly Auto Parts
02.2006 - 07.2007
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
- Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
- Managed store employees successfully in fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback.
- Assisted with hiring, training and mentoring new staff members.
- Improved customer satisfaction through staff training in customer service and product knowledge.
- Maintained proper product levels and inventory controls for merchandise and organized backroom to facilitate effective ordering and stock rotation.
- Completed point of sale opening and closing procedures.
- Conducted regular performance reviews for staff members, providing constructive feedback and opportunities for growth.
- Approved regular payroll submissions for employees.
- Coached sales associates in product specifications, sales incentives, and selling techniques, significantly increasing customer satisfaction ratings.
- Maximized sales and minimized shrinkage through excellent customer service and adherence to standard practices.
- Reconciled daily sales transactions to balance and log day-to-day revenue.
- Set effective store schedules based on forecasted customer levels, individual employee knowledge, and service requirements.
- Managed financial aspects of store operations, including budget planning, expense tracking, and accurate record-keeping to maintain fiscal responsibility.
Deputy Sheriff
Anderson County Sheriff's Office
01.2004 - 02.2006
- Handled high-pressure situations calmly and professionally, minimizing risks to public safety.
- Served warrants efficiently while maintaining strict adherence to legal guidelines and procedures.
- Assessed potentially dangerous situations quickly; employed de-escalation techniques when needed to maintain peace.
- Collaborated with other law enforcement agencies for joint operations, resulting in improved efficiency and effectiveness.
- Maintained accurate reports and records, aiding in the proper documentation of cases for judicial proceedings.
- Investigated incidents and crimes, collected evidence, and recorded witness statements.
- Provided public safety assistance at community events to maintain safe and secure environments.
- Testified effectively in court, presenting clear evidence that contributed to successful case outcomes.
- Enhanced public trust by providing professional and compassionate assistance during emergencies.
- Patrolled designated areas in patrol vehicle and on foot to identify security and safety issues.
- Improved community safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.
- Gathered information and evidence to assist in solving crimes.
- Identified suspicious activity and conducted interviews with witnesses to build cases.
Owner
East Coast Designs
01.2003 - 01.2004
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
Store Manager
Advanced Auto Parts
02.1999 - 01.2003
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
- Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
- Managed store employees successfully in fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback.
- Assisted with hiring, training and mentoring new staff members.
- Improved customer satisfaction through staff training in customer service and product knowledge.
- Maintained proper product levels and inventory controls for merchandise and organized backroom to facilitate effective ordering and stock rotation.
- Completed point of sale opening and closing procedures.
- Mentored new hires during their onboarding process, ensuring they were well-equipped to excel in their roles from day one.
- Conducted regular performance reviews for staff members, providing constructive feedback and opportunities for growth.
- Approved regular payroll submissions for employees.
- Coached sales associates in product specifications, sales incentives, and selling techniques, significantly increasing customer satisfaction ratings.
Manufacturing Operator
Michelin Tire
09.1995 - 01.1999
- Operated machining equipment safely with team of operators.
- Inspected products and machines to maintain quality and efficiency.
- Set up and ran machinery to produce exceptional products for industrial needs.
- Organized work to meet demanding production goals.
- Assisted in maintaining a clean workplace environment free from debris and hazards by closely following housekeeping protocols.
Mechanical Assembler
Diversified Systems Inc.
03.1995 - 09.1995
- Maintained neat and clean work area, clearing debris, organizing parts and keeping spaces open.
- Utilized various hand tools, power tools, and equipment in the assembly process while maintaining a high level of precision and accuracy.
- Tested finished products for compliance with tolerances and overall quality.
- Worked with heavy machinery and various power tools when assembling parts.
Paratrooper
United States Army
07.1993 - 01.1995
- Operated as part of an elite unit tasked with special operations, demonstrating commitment to excellence under pressure.
- Developed strong teamwork skills through rigorous training exercises with fellow paratroopers.
- Conducted high-risk air assault operations, ensuring safe execution and mission completion.
- Maintained proficiency in various weapons systems for enhanced combat readiness.
- Supported global contingency operations by rapidly deploying to areas of need on short notice.
- Maintained a high level of readiness by participating in regular drills and exercises.
Education
High School Diploma -
DW Daniel High School
Clemson, SC05.1993
Skills
- Procedural knowledge
- Law Enforcement Expertise
- Media Relations
- Community Engagement
- Tactical Operations
- Strategic leadership
- Crime scene management
- Emergency Management
- Special Events Coordination
- Courtroom Testimony
- Physical Fitness
- Crime Prevention
- Internal Affairs
- School safety
- Traffic Management
- Intelligence Gathering
- Criminal Investigation
- Community Relations
- Conflict de-escalation
- Records Maintenance
- Traffic Control
- Emergency Response
- Report Preparation
- Staff Discipline
Certification
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy-
Certified Firearms Instructor
Patrol Rifle Instructor
Taser Instructor
Basic Detective School
Chief of Police Training School
Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training-
Active Shooter Instructor
Government Training Institute-
Basic Swat Operator School
Appalachian Council of Governments-
Mid Level Management Training
Timeline
Chief of Police
City Of Liberty
07.2007 - Current
Store Manager
Oreilly Auto Parts
02.2006 - 07.2007
Deputy Sheriff
Anderson County Sheriff's Office
01.2004 - 02.2006
Owner
East Coast Designs
01.2003 - 01.2004
Store Manager
Advanced Auto Parts
02.1999 - 01.2003
Manufacturing Operator
Michelin Tire
09.1995 - 01.1999
Mechanical Assembler
Diversified Systems Inc.
03.1995 - 09.1995
Paratrooper
United States Army
07.1993 - 01.1995
High School Diploma -
DW Daniel High School