Derek Sparks
Miami
Summary
Experienced law enforcement professional with over 10 years of service assisting citizens, investigating incidents, and performing routine patrols. Committed to accurate documentation and effective communication to support legal proceedings. Known for strong work ethic, adaptability, and exceptional interpersonal skills. Adept at working independently and quickly mastering new skills. Holds an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice and is currently completing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with minors in Sociology and Criminal Justice (expected May 2025). Seeking to leverage public service background and education in a future counseling role focused on first responders, military personnel, and youth.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Owner
Sparks Lawn Care, LLC
01.2020 - Current
- 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.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Fostered strong relationships with clients to boost retention rates.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
POLICE PATROLMAN
City of Miami Police Department
12.2015 - Current
- Performed traffic stops to investigate suspicious activity and enforce motor vehicle laws.
- Patrolled assigned areas on foot or in a vehicle to identify and respond to criminal activity.
- Investigated crimes, collected evidence, conducted interviews, wrote reports and made arrests as necessary.
- Maintained order during public events such as parades and festivals.
- Provided assistance to citizens by answering questions and directing them to appropriate resources.
- Responded quickly and appropriately to emergency situations such as domestic disturbances, robberies, assaults.
- Assisted with investigations of major crimes including homicides, burglaries, drug offenses and sexual assaults.
- Interacted with members of the community to build relationships and foster trust between law enforcement and the public.
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER
Miami, OK Public Schools
08.2018 - 09.2022
- Conducted daily patrols of school grounds to ensure safety of students and faculty.
- Maintained a visible presence in classrooms, hallways, and other areas on campus.
- Monitored student behavior and provided guidance as needed.
- Responded to emergency situations such as fights, medical issues, or suspicious activity.
- Provided support to school staff with discipline issues involving students.
- Investigated reports of bullying and harassment among students.
- Developed relationships with students by engaging in conversations and activities.
- Intervened when necessary to prevent potential conflicts from escalating into violence.
- Served as a liaison between the school and local law enforcement agencies during incidents requiring police involvement.
- Enforced laws related to juveniles by issuing citations or making arrests when appropriate.
- Promoted positive behaviors through education rather than punishment whenever possible.
UNARMED SECURITY OFFICER
Buffalo Run Casino & Resort
03.2009 - 12.2015
- Monitored entrances, exits and other points of access to ensure safety of people and property.
- Conducted security checks on staff entering or leaving the premises.
- Provided customer service assistance in resolving conflicts or disputes.
- Enforced rules and regulations in a professional manner while interacting with guests and employees.
- Inspected buildings periodically for signs of intrusion or damage.
- Performed regular patrols of parking lots and garages to identify any potential threats or hazards.
- Provided escort services as needed for visitors requiring special attention.
SHIFT SUPERVISOR
Buffalo Run Casino & Resort
03.2009 - 12.2015
- Monitored staff performance to ensure quality standards were met.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner.
- Communicated clearly with employees regarding job duties, expectations, and policies.
- Provided feedback to employees regarding their performance in order to improve productivity.
- Addressed any issues that arose during the shift in a proactive manner.
- Enforced company policies fairly while maintaining an open door policy for staff concerns.
- Resolved customer complaints and reported issues to senior management.
- Reinforced rules to promote superior employee performance.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Northeastern State University
Tahlequah, OK05.2025
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
Eastern Gateway Community College
Steubenville, OH05.2022
Basic Police Certification - Law Enforcement
Council On Law Enforcement And Education Training
Ada, OK04.2016
Basic Reserve Police Certification - Law Enforcement
Council On Law Enforcement Education And Training
Langley, OK03.2014
Skills
- Traffic enforcement
- Arrest techniques
- Integrity and ethics
- Community policing
- Multicultural Sensitivity
- Stress Tolerance
- Public Service
- Report Writing
- Interpersonal Communication
- Self Motivation
Websites
Certification
- Certified Reserve Office, [Company Name] - [Timeframe]
Languages
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Owner
Sparks Lawn Care, LLC
01.2020 - Current
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER
Miami, OK Public Schools
08.2018 - 09.2022
POLICE PATROLMAN
City of Miami Police Department
12.2015 - Current
UNARMED SECURITY OFFICER
Buffalo Run Casino & Resort
03.2009 - 12.2015
SHIFT SUPERVISOR
Buffalo Run Casino & Resort
03.2009 - 12.2015
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
Eastern Gateway Community College
Basic Reserve Police Certification - Law Enforcement
Council On Law Enforcement Education And Training
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Northeastern State University
Basic Police Certification - Law Enforcement
Council On Law Enforcement And Education Training
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