Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Employment History
Generic

Kourtney Howard

Baker,Florida

Summary

I have been a Deputy Sheriff with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for approximately 15 years and previously worked for the Fort Walton Beach Police Department for an approximately 5 years as a police officer. I am a seasoned Law Enforcement Officer with a solid background in community policing, crime prevention, and investigative procedures. Strengths include crisis management, conflict resolution, and evidence recovery along with a strong understanding of law enforcement principles and public safety. I am committed to making significant contributions by leveraging skills to maintain order, protect citizens and property, reduce crime rates, and improve overall efficiency. Extensive experience in investigative methods and law enforcement techniques. Excellent interpersonal skills, enabling effective communication with individuals from diverse backgrounds. A strong commitment to justice and ethical conduct in all investigations, ensuring the integrity of the process. Highly skilled in coordinating teams of up to several individuals to achieve law enforcement objectives and proven success in coordinating with local and federal agencies to apprehend wanted people and close criminal investigation cases. Demonstrated leadership in guiding teams to achieve excellence through improved relationships with the public, effective solutions, communication and public safety. Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm. Detail-oriented individual with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives. Professional investigator with strong background in law enforcement and investigative work. Known for delivering thorough and accurate investigations while maintaining high standards and professionalism. Reliable team player with focus on adapting to changing needs and achieving results. Skilled in analytical thinking and effective case management. Experienced with conducting complex investigations and gathering substantial evidence. Utilizes advanced analytical skills to solve cases efficiently and accurately. Track record of maintaining clear communication and ensuring thorough documentation throughout investigative processes.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience

Work History

Sergeant Investigator

Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office
2011.03 - Current

Supervisory Leadership

  • Supervise 56 deputies assigned to the Sexual Predator/Offender Unit, ensuring compliance with Florida Statutes and FDLE reporting requirements.
  • Oversee 14 School Resource Officers assigned throughout the school district.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, case reviews, approve warrants and subpoena and operational planning.
  • Ensure accuracy in documentation, reporting standards, and statutory enforcement.
  • Supervised operations, ensuring officer safety while obtaining critical information for ongoing investigations.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
  • Coordinate school safety initiatives, threat assessments, and crisis response planning.
  • Develop operational plans for large-scale school events and high-visibility incidents.
  • Serve as liaison between law enforcement command staff, school administration, and community stakeholders.

Criminal & Financial Investigations

  • Investigated mid-level to high-level drug trafficking organizations.
  • Participated in federal Title III (T3) wire investigations.
  • Managed confidential informants and conducted undercover operations.
  • Prepared and executed search warrants and subpoenas.
  • Investigated complex fraud cases including:
    Credit card fraud
    Identity theft
    Counterfeit currency
    Forged financial instruments
    Money laundering operations

White Collar Crimes

Property/Estate Fraud

Cyber Crimes

Forged Instruments

  • Conducted financial record analysis and coordinated with financial institutions.
  • Seized assets linked to narcotics trafficking and fraud enterprises.
  • Processed and analyzed digital evidence for prosecution.
  • Provided sworn courtroom testimony in state and federal proceedings.
  • Maintained detailed records of all investigations for future reference and potential legal proceedings, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality at all times.
  • Documented findings and prepared detailed reports.
  • Collected, analyzed and interpreted information, documentation, and physical evidence associated with investigations.
  • Collaborated with federal agencies on investigations.
  • Carefully documented statements, observations, and evidentiary materials.
  • Interviewed and interrogated suspects.

Police Officer

Fort Walton Beach Police Department
2007.01 - 2011.01
  • Respond and investigate traffic crashes, homicides, thefts, robberies, stolen vehicles and sex related crimes/activities, which require writing reports.
  • Process, collect, preserve, photograph and submit laboratory examination on evidence.
  • Monitor suspicious activities and ongoing crimes.
  • Interview suspects, witnesses and victims.
  • Establish a rapport with business owners and citizens.
  • Foot and vehicle patrol, which include canvassing neighborhoods when a crime has been committed.
  • Provide testimony in court procedures.
  • Investigate white Collar crimes, identify theft, common investigations includes health care fraud, mortgage estate fraud, mail fraud, property theft, money laundering , and cyber crimes.
  • Work forgery cases/incidents.

Sales Associate

Home Team Pest Defense
2005.01 - 2007.01
  • Delivered exceptional customer service to enhance client satisfaction and retention.
  • Assisted in identifying pest control solutions tailored to customer needs and preferences.
  • Collaborated with team members to streamline sales processes and improve efficiency.
  • Educated clients on pest prevention techniques, fostering long-term relationships.
  • Trained new associates on sales techniques and company policies, enhancing team performance.
  • Led initiatives to increase sales volume through targeted marketing strategies and promotions.
  • Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
  • Boosted customer satisfaction levels through exceptional service, addressing concerns promptly, and providing a welcoming store environment.
  • Assisted in training new staff members on company policies, product information, and sales techniques for a seamless onboarding experience.
  • Achieved monthly sales targets consistently by implementing effective sales strategies and maintaining a high level of product knowledge.

Detention Officer

Gulf Coast Treatment Center
2003.01 - 2004.01
  • Supervised daily activities and interactions of residents in secure environment.
  • Conducted regular safety checks to ensure compliance with facility regulations.
  • Implemented behavior management strategies to de-escalate conflicts effectively.
  • Trained new staff on operational protocols and emergency response procedures.
  • Maintained accurate records of resident behavior and incidents for reporting purposes.
  • Responded swiftly to emergency situations with appropriate use of force when necessary to protect both inmates'' well-being and facility security.
  • Responded promptly to emergency situations and provided medical aid.
  • Improved facility safety by performing thorough inspections of cells, common areas, and property for contraband or damage.
  • Managed daily operations, including supervising inmate work details, meal distribution, and recreational activities.
  • Conducted physical searches of prisoners and premises in search of weapons and contraband.
  • Maintained a safe environment for inmates and staff through effective communication and adherence to established protocols.
  • Participated in ongoing training sessions to stay current on best practices in detention management and security protocols.
  • Assisted in reducing incidents of violence by implementing conflict resolution strategies and de-escalation techniques.
  • Created and maintained positive relationships with inmates to build rapport and trust.
  • Enhanced inmate security by conducting regular cell checks and monitoring daily activities.
  • Regularly conducted security and sanitation checks.
  • Implemented crisis intervention strategies when needed, demonstrating empathy toward inmates during difficult situations without compromising authority or control over the situation.

Office Manager

Parkwood Village Apartments
1998.01 - 2001.01
  • Streamlined office operations to enhance efficiency and reduce administrative bottlenecks.
  • Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts for maintenance and supply services.
  • Oversaw property management software implementation, improving tenant communication and record keeping.
  • Coordinated resident events, fostering community engagement and improving tenant satisfaction.
  • Trained and mentored administrative staff, enhancing team performance and skill development.
  • Led budget management initiatives, optimizing resource allocation for facility improvements.
  • Implemented inventory control systems, reducing waste and ensuring availability of essential supplies.
  • Handled sensitive information with discretion, maintaining confidentiality of company documents and personnel records.
  • Maintained accurate financial records by reconciling accounts payable/receivable transactions regularly to ensure balanced budgets.
  • Organized and maintained filing systems, enhancing document retrieval efficiency.
  • Facilitated smooth operations by efficiently handling incoming mail, phone calls, and visitor inquiries.
  • Achieved high levels of accuracy in data entry tasks while adhering to strict deadlines.

Education

High School Diploma -

Douglas County High School
Douglasville, Georgia

Some College - undefined

Lanier Technical College
Lanier, Georgia

Basic law enforcement -

Okaloosa-Walton College
Niceville, Florida

1 year - undefined

Gulf-Coast College
Panama City, Florida

AA - Business Science

Southern Columbia University
Orange Beach, Alabama
2025

Skills

  • Problem-solving and time management
  • Friendly, positive attitude, teamwork and collaboration
  • Great at attention to detail, organizing and Multitasking
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Dependable and responsible
  • Excellent communication
  • Critical thinking
  • Computer skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Calm under pressure
  • Active listening
  • Verbal communication

Accomplishments

  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets for over 500 offenders and 6 deputies to maintain.
  • Supervised team of 60 staff members.
  • Supervisor of the year nomination in 2024 and 2025.
  • Leadership & Command Development
  • FDLE Upper & Middle Management Leadership
  • CJSTC Middle Management
  • Leadership Academy & Leadership Gold
  • Line Supervision & Engaging First-Line Leadership
  • BAPOI Leadership Training
  • Ethical Interventions & Duty to Intercede
  • Criminal Justice Officer Ethics
  • Criminal & Financial Investigations
  • Fraud Investigations
  • Financial Investigations of Criminal Organizations
  • Money Laundering Investigations
  • Human Intelligence & Undercover CI Operations
  • Conspiracy & Organized Crime Investigations
  • Criminal Street Gangs Investigations
  • Drug Identification & Drug Trafficking Investigations
  • Highway/Rural Drug Interdiction
  • Advanced Search & Seizure / Knock & Talk Investigations
  • Interview & Interrogation Techniques
  • Sexual Assault & Victim-Centered Investigations
  • Sexual Assault Response & Investigative Strategy
  • Victim Interviewing Techniques
  • Investigating Sexual Assault Against Vulnerable Populations
  • DNA & Biological Evidence Collection
  • Cold Case Sexual Assault Investigations
  • Victim Advocacy & VAWA Forensic Compliance
  • Juvenile Sexual Offender Investigations
  • Specialized Enforcement & Tactical Operations
  • Hostage & Crisis Negotiations
  • Active Shooter / Active Assailant Response
  • Threat Assessment
  • Emergency Vehicle Operations
  • Crowd Control Operations
  • Impact Weapons, TASER & Chemical Agent (OC) Certification
  • Defensive Tactics
  • High-Liability Response
  • Sovereign Citizen Movement
  • Clandestine Lab & Methamphetamine Lab Operations
  • Forensics & Evidence Processing
  • Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Processing
  • Digital & Financial Evidence Handling
  • DNA Collection & Forensic Analysis
  • Handling Sensitive Information
  • Cyber Security & Internet Security Awareness

Timeline

Sergeant Investigator

Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office
2011.03 - Current

Police Officer

Fort Walton Beach Police Department
2007.01 - 2011.01

Sales Associate

Home Team Pest Defense
2005.01 - 2007.01

Detention Officer

Gulf Coast Treatment Center
2003.01 - 2004.01

Office Manager

Parkwood Village Apartments
1998.01 - 2001.01

Some College - undefined

Lanier Technical College

1 year - undefined

Gulf-Coast College

High School Diploma -

Douglas County High School

Basic law enforcement -

Okaloosa-Walton College

AA - Business Science

Southern Columbia University

Employment History

  • 2003-2004 Department of Juvenile Justice Detention Officer
  • 2004-2006 Home Team Pest Defense Salesperson
  • 2006-2011 Officer at Fort Walton Beach Police Dept.
  • 2011-2015 C-Shift/South/Central Patrol
  • 2015-2016 A-Shift/South/Central Patrol
  • 2017-2018 C-Shift/East-Corporal Supervisor
  • 2018-2019 A-Shift/North-Corporal Supervisor
  • 2019-2021 Investigator-Drug Task Force Unit/High Crime
  • 2021-Present Sergeant over School Resource Officers/Unit
  • 2021- Present Sergeant over Sexual Predator Offender Unit