Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

James Twiss

Porcupine,SD

Summary

Seasoned professional with approximately 25 years of experience in law enforcement, 12 years as a supervisor and 4.5 years as a School Resource Officer. Adept at budgeting, performing personnel management and operation management. Sound knowledge of budgets, policies and procedures and security standards,

Overview

35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

School Resource Officer

Oglala Lakota County School District
12.2019 - Current
  • Establish and maintain a close partnership with school administrators in order to provide for a safe school environment.
  • Assist school officials with their efforts to enforce School board policies and procedures.
  • Ensure school administrator safety by being present during school searches, which may involve weapons, controlled dangerous substances or in such cases that, the student’s emotional state may present a risk.
  • Assist school administrators in emergency crisis planning and building security matters.
  • Provide a course of training for school personnel in handling crisis situations,
  • Be visible within the school community. Attend and participate in school functions.
  • Build working relationships with the school’s staff as well as with student and parent groups. may arise at the school.
  • Conducted school security inspections
  • Collaborated with administration and teachers to develop crisis plans
  • Conducted school security inspections.
  • Provided security and safety to school staff and students.
  • Worked independently and collaboratively to resolve urgent issues to protect lives and property.
  • Examined doors, windows and gates to verify security.
  • Secured premises and personnel by patrolling property and monitoring surveillance equipment.
  • Greeted guests professionally and courteously to cultivate welcoming atmosphere while making safety top priority.
  • Responded quickly to emergency situations to assess and deflect issues.
  • Monitored CCTV cameras and alarm systems for security breaches.
  • Operated handheld metal detector and other surveillance devices to screen individuals entering facility.

Police Sergeant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
11.2012 - 11.2015
  • Supervised crowds at busy events to prevent injuries and property destruction.
  • Engaged with local individuals and community leaders to discuss crime reduction strategies.
  • Evaluated case documentation submitted by team members to check accuracy and compliance with department policies aimed at protecting criminal cases.
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of 5 subordinates.
  • Led shift briefings to inform officers of properties to check and individuals of note in local areas.
  • Educated staff members on proper field procedures to boost public trust in officers and efficiency.
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
  • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
  • Liaised with local, state and federal regulatory agencies to streamline investigation completion.
  • Supervised and coordinated daily operations of patrol shifts of up to 4-100 officers
  • Served as mentor and role model to junior officers
  • Evaluated case documentation submitted by team members to check accuracy and compliance with department policies aimed at protecting criminal cases
  • Motivated and trained squad members to become proficient with equipment and daily tasks

Investigator

Lakota Oyate Wakanyeja Owicakiyapi (LOWO)
05.2012 - 11.2012
  • Investigated all claims of child physical and sexual abuse.
  • Carefully documented statements, observations and evidentiary materials.
  • Collected, analyzed and interpreted information, documentation and physical evidence associated with investigations.
  • Documented findings and prepared detailed reports.
  • Conducted interviews with witnesses and clients.
  • Kept current on all agency and state policies, rules, regulations and statutes.
  • Collected, analyzed and interpreted information, documentation, and physical evidence associated with investigations
  • Prepared case reports from allegations, transcripts of interviews and physical evidence
  • Documented findings and prepared detailed reports
  • Carefully documented statements, observations, and evidentiary materials
  • Conducted thorough face-to-face interviews with employers, families, neighbors, friends, and suspects, and documented investigative findings
  • Questioned and consulted with subjects and witnesses for information pertaining to criminal cases
  • Collaborated with federal agencies on investigations
  • Testified in court during civil proceedings and trials

Prosecutor

Oglala Sioux Tribe
11.2010 - 01.2012
  • Interpreted laws, rulings and regulations for individuals and businesses.
  • Researched, wrote and filed motions, writs and briefs for each case.
  • Explained available courses of action and possible repercussions of cases to clients.
  • Minimized risk exposure through careful advice on business operations and strategic plans.
  • Communicated with clients and collected information to research cases and prepare settlement offers.
  • Analyzed probable outcomes of cases using knowledge of legal precedents.
  • Interviewed witnesses and gathered public record research relevant to each case.
  • Drafted motions, petitions and waivers.

Police Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
07.2009 - 03.2010
    • Talked regularly with citizens to establish rapport and become familiar presence in area.
    • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses and damage to property.
    • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
    • Secured crime scenes, gathered evidence and questioned witnesses.
    • Patrolled assigned areas to prevent and detect roadway crimes.
    • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
    • Enforced traffic laws and ordinances through visual observation and radar speed detection.
    • Responded immediately to reports of automobile accidents and criminal activity, calling for additional support as necessary.
    • Conducted preliminary investigations at scenes of major crimes.

Contractor

Mountain Chief Institute
01.2009 - 06.2009
  • Worked with Rosebud Chief of Police and offered suggestions to help improve Law Enforcement operations and Community Policing.
  • Met with council persons to get their perspective on Law Enforcement and Community Policing.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions
  • Kept site work safe and in line with budget and schedule.
  • Collaborated with clients to define project requirements and deliverables
  • Researched and identified innovative solutions to acquire resources and meet customer needs

School Resource Officer

Shannon County School District
04.2008 - 01.2009
  • Quickly learned new skills and applied them to daily tasks, improving efficiency and productivity.
  • Carried out day-day-day duties accurately and efficiently.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Worked flexible hours; night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
  • Performed duties in accordance with applicable standards, policies and regulatory guidelines to promote safe working environment.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.

Chief of Police

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
10.2006 - 10.2007
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of approximately 300 subordinates.
  • In less than a year, we got the department off of high risk status that it had been on for several years.
  • Completed two financial audits that wasn't completed.
  • Created Standard Operating procedures for all internal divisions, which had never been done before.
  • Created an Internal Affairs division to address citizen complaints, which had never been done before.
    Established a Field Training Officer Program to keep non-certified Officers on the streets until they could attend the Indian Police Academy. this was also the first program of its type that was approved by the head of BIA OJS in Washington, D.C.
  • Met with the United States Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. and was able to have them forgive debts from years and years before forgiven.
  • We served twelve (12) search warrants and seized thousands of dollars in cash, drugs and firearms.
  • I testified before the United States House of Representatives Appropriations Committee and was able to secure an additional $1.8 million dollars in funding for the department.
  • Increased field contacts, vehicle stops, criminal arrests and traffic citation volumes by effectively leading Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and establishing operational goals.
  • Implemented training programs for over 20 new recruits.
  • Verified and authenticated validity and admissibility of evidence and preserved its integrity for court hearings while testifying under oath in administrative hearings and criminal court cases.
  • established Individual Development Plans for employees growth and development.
  • Effectively led investigations, ensured safety protocols were followed, and handled high-pressure situations
  • Coordinated with law enforcement agencies to respond to security incidents and emergencies
  • Conducted investigations to identify suspicious activities, violations of policies and regulations and potential threats
  • Liaised with local, state, and federal regulatory agencies to streamline investigation completion
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment
  • Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic
  • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend and holiday shifts
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships
  • Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems
  • Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others
  • Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively

Police Lieutenant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
08.2006 - 10.2006
  • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses and damage to property.
  • Delivered staff training on combat readiness strategies while working to enhance morale and support overall welfare.
  • Audited inventory of safety equipment and weapons for mission security compliance.
  • Maintained accountability and streamlined oversight of more than $100,000 in equipment and supplies.
  • Frequently patrolled routes and talked with business owners and residents.
  • Directed and monitored work of 15 law enforcement professionals with clear focus on maximizing results and maintaining transparent police operations.
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of 15 subordinates.
  • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
  • Evaluated case documentation submitted by team members to check accuracy and compliance with department policies aimed at protecting criminal cases

Acting Chief of Police

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
05.2006 - 08.2006
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of 300 subordinates.
  • Liaised with local, state and federal regulatory agencies to streamline investigation completion.
  • Implemented training programs for over 20 new recruits.
  • Verified and authenticated validity and admissibility of evidence and preserved its integrity for court hearings while testifying under oath in administrative hearings and criminal court cases.

Police Lieutenant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
05.2006 - 05.2006
  • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses and damage to property.
  • Delivered staff training on combat readiness strategies while working to enhance morale and support overall welfare.
  • Audited inventory of safety equipment and weapons for mission security compliance.
  • Maintained accountability and streamlined oversight of more than $100,000 in equipment and supplies.
  • Frequently patrolled routes and talked with business owners and residents.
  • Directed and monitored work of 10 law enforcement professionals with clear focus on maximizing results and maintaining transparent police operations.
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of 10 subordinates.
  • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.

Police Sergeant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
11.2004 - 05.2006
  • Supervised crowds at busy events to prevent injuries and property destruction.
  • Engaged with local individuals and community leaders to discuss crime reduction strategies.
  • Evaluated case documentation submitted by team members to check accuracy and compliance with department policies aimed at protecting criminal cases.
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of 7 subordinates.
  • Led shift briefings to inform officers of properties to check and individuals of note in local areas.
  • Supervised and coordinated daily operations of patrol shifts of up to 4-10 officers
  • Served as mentor and role model to junior officers.
  • Motivated and trained squad members to become proficient with equipment and daily tasks

Police Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
08.2004 - 11.2004
  • Talked regularly with citizens to establish rapport and become familiar presence in area.
  • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses and damage to property.
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
  • Secured crime scenes, gathered evidence and questioned witnesses.
  • Patrolled assigned areas to prevent and detect roadway crimes.
  • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
  • Enforced traffic laws and ordinances through visual observation and radar speed detection.
  • Responded immediately to reports of automobile accidents and criminal activity, calling for additional support as necessary.
  • Conducted preliminary investigations at scenes of major crimes.

Chief of Police

Bureau Of Indian Affairs Office Of Justice Service
09.2003 - 08.2004
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of approximately 20 subordinates.
  • Enforced department policies when needed.
  • Liaised with local, state and federal regulatory agencies to streamline investigation completion.
  • Increased field contacts, vehicle stops, criminal arrests and traffic citation volumes by effectively leading the Eastern Nevada Agency and establishing operational goals.
  • Verified and authenticated validity and admissibility of evidence and preserved its integrity for court hearings while testifying under oath in administrative hearings and criminal court cases.
  • Effectively led investigations, ensured safety protocols were followed, and handled high-pressure situations
  • Coordinated with law enforcement agencies to respond to security incidents and emergencies
  • Conducted investigations to identify suspicious activities, violations of policies and regulations and potential threats
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance
  • Verified and authenticated validity and admissibility of evidence and preserved its integrity for court hearings while testifying under oath in administrative hearings and criminal court cases
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment
  • Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships
  • Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems

Police Captain

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
10.2000 - 09.2003
  • Supervised all Law Enforcement and Dispatch staff. (approximately 125 staff members)
  • Ensured proper Law Enforcement coverage in all districts at all times.
  • Boosted staff productivity and performance by coordinating and standardizing disciplinary and motivational approaches.
  • Strengthened departmental personnel patrol readiness with defensive training.
  • Served active warrants and subpoenas and patrolled designated districts.
  • Assigned and supervised subordinates to prevent crime, protect life and property and enforce laws
  • Liaised with government, civic and private organizations to promote community safety
  • Inspected and oversaw functions of patrol officers, Corrections, Dispatch and Lieutenants.
  • Monitored performance of employees and established police requirements
  • Planned, organized, directed and supervised operation of 3 major divisions
  • Mediated domestic-related disturbances and protected victims from harm
  • Examined personnel, facilities and tactics for safety and training
  • Supervised and coordinated daily operations of patrol shifts of up to 100 officers
  • Served as mentor and role model to junior officers
  • Motivated and trained Officers to become proficient with equipment and daily tasks
  • Evaluated case documentation submitted by team members to check accuracy and compliance with department policies aimed at protecting criminal cases
  • Accompanied police officers during shifts to evaluate performance and resolve incorrect behaviors
  • Developed and maintained positive relationships with community members
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners
  • Patrolled assigned areas to check homes, businesses, and public roads for signs of disturbance
  • Developed and implemented methods of reducing crime in community, analyzing crime trends and developing corresponding strategies
  • Supervised crowds at busy events to prevent injuries and property destruction
  • Established and enforced employee performance policies
  • Delivered expert courtroom testimony to support criminal cases

Law Enforcement Park Ranger

Oglala Sioux Parks And Recreation Authority
08.1995 - 10.2000
  • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses and damage to property.
  • Issued citations for violations of traffic and or Game and fish laws.
  • Interacted pleasantly with visitors and promoted park rules, regulations and safety measures to educate and inform.
  • Patrolled all areas by foot and vehicle to assess park conditions and notified maintenance department regarding trash and debris.
  • Provided information and guidance for park visitors, answered questions and inquiries and suggested trails for hiking.
  • Enforced all tribal game and fish laws.

Police Sergeant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
06.1994 - 08.1995
  • Supervised crowds at busy events to prevent injuries and property destruction.
  • Engaged with local individuals and community leaders to discuss crime reduction strategies.
  • Evaluated case documentation submitted by team members to check accuracy and compliance with department policies aimed at protecting criminal cases.
  • Planned, scheduled and supervised work of up to 8 subordinates.
  • Led shift briefings to inform officers of properties to check and individuals of note in local areas.
  • Educated staff members on proper field procedures to boost public trust in officers and efficiency.
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
  • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
  • Liaised with local, state and federal regulatory agencies to streamline investigation completion.

Police Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
08.1990 - 06.1994
  • Talked regularly with citizens to establish rapport and become familiar presence in area.
  • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses and damage to property.
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
  • Secured crime scenes, gathered evidence and questioned witnesses.
  • Patrolled assigned areas to prevent and detect roadway crimes.
  • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
  • Enforced traffic laws and ordinances through visual observation and radar speed detection.
  • Responded immediately to reports of automobile accidents and criminal activity, calling for additional support as necessary.
  • Conducted preliminary investigations at scenes of major crimes.
  • Participated in continuous firearms proficiency, defensive driving and arrest technique training
  • Recorded facts to prepare reports documenting incidents and activities
  • Monitored criminal activity in community to identify suspicious activity
  • Provided testimony in court proceedings
  • Identified, pursued and arrested suspects and perpetrators of criminal acts
  • Responded to emergency calls to provide assistance to citizens in need
  • Utilized clear communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with citizens

Correctional Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
11.1988 - 08.1990
  • Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals and medical appointments.
  • Conducted routine and emergency head counts.
  • Prepared, processed and maintained forms, reports, logs, records and activity journals.
  • Observed and supervised inmates throughout visits, meal time, recreation, phone calls and showers.
  • Tracked inmates through head counts, visitor logs and scheduled activities.
  • Observed behavior of residents individually and in groups.
  • Booked new inmates into facility and processed inmates for release.
  • Searched cells of inmates to identify and confiscate contraband and other prohibited items
  • Observed and supervised inmates throughout visits, meal time, recreation, phone calls, and showers.
  • Observed behavior of residents individually and in groups
  • Enforced rules and regulations to maintain order among inmates
  • Investigated and responded to incidents of inmate misconduct

Education

No Degree - Health, Physical Education And Recreation

Dakota Wesleyan University
Mitchell, SD

Skills

  • Medical Emergency Response
  • Strong Interpersonal Skills
  • Policy knowledge
  • Planning and Coordination
  • Decision-Making
  • Critical Thinking
  • Dependable and Responsible
  • Building security proficiency
  • Liaison skills
  • Conflict resolution skills
  • Law enforcement procedures
  • Campus patrol
  • Negotiation
  • Medical emergency support
  • Witness interviewing
  • Active shooter response

Certification

  • CFR - Certified First Responder
  • CPR Training - 8/23
  • Federal Law Enforcement Training Center- Indian Police Academy Training - 12/92
  • Supervisory Enforcement Officer Training - 02/94
  • Total Quality Management Training - 02/94
  • FLETC-Firearms Instructor Training Program- 12/95
  • FLETC-Multiple Weapons Firearms Instructor Program-11/96
  • FBI-Interview and Interrogations, Crimes against Children-03/98
  • SD Office of Highway Safety-Advanced DWI-02/91
  • Chief of Police In-service-05/04
  • BIA-OJS- District III Budget In-service- 05/04
  • Emergency Vehicle Operations Course-10/04
  • Train the Trainer-Community Policing-10/08
  • Community Oriented Policing Instructor-01/09
  • SD Department of Health EMT Basic-03/96
  • National Registry of EMT's-03/96
  • Trails Found Tracking and Sign Cutting Course-01/98
  • Project Medicine Wheel-Domestic Violence Workshop-11/93
  • US-EPA-First Responder Operational Level Course-09/94
  • US-DOJ-Family Violence Training-03/92
  • Project Medicine Wheel- Domestic Violence Training-01/92
  • US Government-General Services Administration Driver Awareness Training-03/92
  • IHS-40 hour In-service First Responder Training-08/90
  • National Wildfire Coordinating Group-Basic Firefighting Training-08/90
  • National Wildfire Coordinating Group-Basic Fire Fighting Engine Crew- 08/90
  • US Bureau of Reclamation-Native American Fish and Wildlife Society-Wetlands, Wildlife and GIS Workshop-06/96
  • US Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Law Enforcement In-service-05/00
  • US Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Law Enforcement In-service-07/97
  • ALICE Training-08/23
  • Defensive Driver Training-08/23

Timeline

School Resource Officer

Oglala Lakota County School District
12.2019 - Current

Police Sergeant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
11.2012 - 11.2015

Investigator

Lakota Oyate Wakanyeja Owicakiyapi (LOWO)
05.2012 - 11.2012

Prosecutor

Oglala Sioux Tribe
11.2010 - 01.2012

Police Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
07.2009 - 03.2010

Contractor

Mountain Chief Institute
01.2009 - 06.2009

School Resource Officer

Shannon County School District
04.2008 - 01.2009

Chief of Police

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
10.2006 - 10.2007

Police Lieutenant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
08.2006 - 10.2006

Acting Chief of Police

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
05.2006 - 08.2006

Police Lieutenant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
05.2006 - 05.2006

Police Sergeant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
11.2004 - 05.2006

Police Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
08.2004 - 11.2004

Chief of Police

Bureau Of Indian Affairs Office Of Justice Service
09.2003 - 08.2004

Police Captain

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
10.2000 - 09.2003

Law Enforcement Park Ranger

Oglala Sioux Parks And Recreation Authority
08.1995 - 10.2000

Police Sergeant

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
06.1994 - 08.1995

Police Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
08.1990 - 06.1994

Correctional Officer

Oglala Sioux Tribe Department Of Public Safety
11.1988 - 08.1990

No Degree - Health, Physical Education And Recreation

Dakota Wesleyan University
  • CFR - Certified First Responder
  • CPR Training - 8/23
  • Federal Law Enforcement Training Center- Indian Police Academy Training - 12/92
  • Supervisory Enforcement Officer Training - 02/94
  • Total Quality Management Training - 02/94
  • FLETC-Firearms Instructor Training Program- 12/95
  • FLETC-Multiple Weapons Firearms Instructor Program-11/96
  • FBI-Interview and Interrogations, Crimes against Children-03/98
  • SD Office of Highway Safety-Advanced DWI-02/91
  • Chief of Police In-service-05/04
  • BIA-OJS- District III Budget In-service- 05/04
  • Emergency Vehicle Operations Course-10/04
  • Train the Trainer-Community Policing-10/08
  • Community Oriented Policing Instructor-01/09
  • SD Department of Health EMT Basic-03/96
  • National Registry of EMT's-03/96
  • Trails Found Tracking and Sign Cutting Course-01/98
  • Project Medicine Wheel-Domestic Violence Workshop-11/93
  • US-EPA-First Responder Operational Level Course-09/94
  • US-DOJ-Family Violence Training-03/92
  • Project Medicine Wheel- Domestic Violence Training-01/92
  • US Government-General Services Administration Driver Awareness Training-03/92
  • IHS-40 hour In-service First Responder Training-08/90
  • National Wildfire Coordinating Group-Basic Firefighting Training-08/90
  • National Wildfire Coordinating Group-Basic Fire Fighting Engine Crew- 08/90
  • US Bureau of Reclamation-Native American Fish and Wildlife Society-Wetlands, Wildlife and GIS Workshop-06/96
  • US Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Law Enforcement In-service-05/00
  • US Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Law Enforcement In-service-07/97
  • ALICE Training-08/23
  • Defensive Driver Training-08/23
James Twiss