JOSHUA HOUSER
Lone Tree
Summary
Dedicated Law Enforcement Leader and Military Veteran with a proven track record of reliability, honesty, and ambition. Expert in high-stakes decision-making, personnel management, and community safety. Consistently strives to exceed expectations through professional excellence and proactive leadership.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief of Police
City of West Liberty
West Liberty
12.2023 - Current
- Direct operations for the city police department, proudly serving approximately four thousand residents and numerous visitors.
- Provided leadership, mentoring, and supervision for nine sworn officers.
- Ensure the continued protection and safety of the community members through strategic resource allocation management.
- Active involvement in multiple high-profile criminal investigations, ensuring thorough evidence collection, case integrity, and a clear concise resolution.
- Oversaw internal investigations, administered fair and consistent disciplinary actions, and facilitated conflict resolution.
- Directed recruitment and retention strategies to maintain appropriate staffing.
- Act as the official media liaison, drafting and issuing multiple high profile press releases to maintain public transparency.
- Maintain active membership on multiple community and state Law Enforcement boards to manage resources, new initiatives, local policy, and safety.
- Foster inter-agency collaboration, working closely with multiple neighboring law enforcement agencies including the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
- Cultivated a department culture centered on community engagement and strong community relationships.
High Risk Unit Officer
Iowa Department of Corrections
Cedar Rapids
05.2021 - 12.2023
- Supervised high-risk probationers and parolees to reduce community risk within the 6th Judicial District.
- Conducted home inspections, drug tests, and investigations into alleged violations.
- Wrote detailed narrative reports for use in complex investigations.
- Served as the ILEA Defensive Tactics Instructor and Weapon Armorer.
- Advanced the department through the implementation of new projects and technology.
Police Officer / Sergeant
City of West Liberty
West Liberty
07.2017 - 04.2021
- Promoted to Corporal in September 2019 and served as Patrol Sergeant from November 2020 through April 2021.
- Supervision, management, and training of new officers.
- Investigated crimes, accidents, and property damage while cultivating positive community relations.
- Monitor officer performance, provide guidance, coaching, and mentorship.
- Respond to major incidents, emergencies, or critical incidents and assume command as needed.
- Review and approve reports, citations, arrests, and investigative documentation.
Business Owner
Big Dog Tactical LLC
Lone Tree
04.2020 - Current
- Oversee business budget planning, administration, accounting, and tax filing.
- Developed and implemented marketing strategies to increase profit margins and customer base.
- Consult with customers to assess tactical needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Manage realistic budgets based on operating costs and fees.
Internment Resettlement Specialist
US Army Reserves
05.2010 - 05.2018
- Deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (2012) to guard high-profile prisoners.
- Responsible for internal and external facility security of the detention facility.
- Maintained secure and orderly detainee operations in compliance with military and international guidelines.
- Applied de-escalation techniques and maintained professionalism in stressful situations.
- Awarded the Army Achievement Medal for Selfless Service.
- Honorably Discharged May 2018.
Sheriff Deputy
Black Hawk County Sheriff's Department
Waterloo
01.2014 - 07.2017
- Graduated at the top of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy class in 2015.
- Served as a Field Training Officer (FTO) responsible for training incoming personnel.
- Maintain safety, security, and order within the county jail facility.
- Supervise incarcerated individuals in housing units, intake, and common areas.
- Conduct regular inmate counts, security checks, and cell inspections.
- Enforce facility rules, regulations, and established procedures.
Education
Certified Peace Officer -
Iowa Law Enforcement Academy
03.2015
Advanced Individual Training -
Military Police
Ft. Leonard Wood, MO03.2011
US Army Basic Training -
Ft. Jackson, SC10.2010
Skills
- ILEA Defensive Tactics Instructor
- Weapon Armorer
- Certified First Responder
- Back the Blue 80F Officer Interview/Investigations
- CTK Interview and Investigation Techniques
- Brazilian Jujitsu (Purple Belt)
- Budgeting for business
- Resource Management
- Conflict Resolution
Awards
- ILEA Woodard Award for Academic Excellence
- National Defense Service Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals
- Army Service Ribbon
- Armed Forces Reserve Medal
- Army Physical Fitness Excellence Patch
Timeline
Chief of Police
City of West Liberty
12.2023 - Current
High Risk Unit Officer
Iowa Department of Corrections
05.2021 - 12.2023
Business Owner
Big Dog Tactical LLC
04.2020 - Current
Police Officer / Sergeant
City of West Liberty
07.2017 - 04.2021
Sheriff Deputy
Black Hawk County Sheriff's Department
01.2014 - 07.2017
Internment Resettlement Specialist
US Army Reserves
05.2010 - 05.2018
Certified Peace Officer -
Iowa Law Enforcement Academy
Advanced Individual Training -
Military Police