Ryan Ferguson
Hephzibah
Summary
Dynamic UAS Operator and Investigator Sergeant with the Richmond County Sheriff's Office, recognized for achieving a 40% case clearance rate. Expert in incident response and detailed report writing, leveraging analytical thinking to enhance investigations and foster ethical practices. Proven ability to mentor teams and streamline communication during critical situations.
Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.
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.
Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
UAS Operator/Team Co-leader/DFR Deployment Manager
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
Augusta, GA
08.2025 - Current
- Operated and monitored complex communication systems for effective interdepartmental coordination.
- Responded to emergencies, ensuring rapid deployment of resources based on situational assessments.
- Conducted routine system checks to maintain optimal functionality and reliability of equipment.
- Assisted in training new operators on protocols, systems, and emergency response procedures.
- Collaborated with law enforcement personnel to streamline communication during critical incidents.
- Liaised with groups to assist in escalations and incident response, triage and resolution.
- Leveraged automation and scripting tools to monitor, maintain and first-level troubleshoot job and process automation.
Investigator Sergeant
Richmond County Sheriff Office
Augusta, GA
01.2024 - Current
- Provided guidance and mentorship to lower-ranking detectives and deputies, ensuring effective case supervision and oversight.
- Oversaw comprehensive investigations for approximately 1440 cases, achieving a clearance rate of approximately 40% through strategic issuance of arrest warrants and effective case resolutions.
- Achieved meticulous evidence collection and documentation at crime scenes to uphold forensic standards. Produced detailed prosecutorial case files and delivered expert testimony in high-stakes court cases.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to enhance crime-solving strategies and share intelligence.
- Utilized advanced forensic tools and software to analyze data, enhancing investigative outcomes.
- Conducted surveillance operations to gather critical intelligence, leading to successful case resolutions.
- Delivered calm, professional testimony to support case evidence, establish timelines, and offer law enforcement expertise.
- Conducted multi-scope research into suspects to determine criminal activities and suspect operating environments.
- Conducted thorough investigations into internal misconduct allegations, ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
- Collaborated with legal teams to assess evidence and prepare comprehensive reports for management review.
- Led cross-departmental initiatives aimed at improving organizational integrity and ethical standards.
- Facilitated confidential interviews, fostering a safe environment for whistleblowers to report concerns without fear of retaliation.
Investigator
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
Augusta, GA
08.2014 - 04.2024
- Conducted thorough investigations to gather evidence and analyze case details.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to enhance investigation strategies and outcomes.
- Developed comprehensive reports summarizing findings for legal proceedings and departmental reviews.
- Trained junior investigators on investigative techniques and adherence to protocols.
- Led complex criminal investigations, coordinating with multiple teams for effective resolution.
- Mentored staff in best practices for evidence collection, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
- Conducted thorough face-to-face interviews with employers, families, neighbors, friends, and suspects, and documented investigative findings.
- Ensured compliance with legal regulations during investigations, minimizing risk for litigation or procedural errors.
Deputy Sheriff, Road Patrol
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
Augusta, GA
09.2011 - 08.2014
- Enforced traffic laws and regulations to ensure public safety on roadways.
- Conducted routine patrols to deter crime and monitor community activities.
- Responded promptly to emergency calls, providing assistance and coordinating with other units.
- Investigated incidents, documenting findings and gathering evidence for case reports.
- Collaborated with local agencies to enhance community outreach and crime prevention efforts.
- Led critical incident responses, ensuring proper coordination among law enforcement agencies during emergencies.
Deputy Jailer
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
Augusta, GA
11.2009 - 09.2011
- Supervised daily operations to ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulations.
- Conducted regular inmate assessments to monitor behavior and report any issues.
- Managed intake and release processes, maintaining accurate records and documentation.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures and emergency response protocols.
Assistant Store Manager
American Eagle Outfiters
Augusta, GA
2007 - 2009
- Managed daily operations of a high-volume retail store, contributing to sales growth and team development initiatives. Supervised and mentored sales associates to elevate performance standards and promote a culture focused on customer satisfaction.
- Achieved operational efficiency during peak hours through effective shift scheduling and floor leadership as manager-on-duty. Enhanced inventory management and merchandising practices, positively impacting operational standards. Mitigated losses through strategic loss prevention efforts, reinforcing profitability.
- Assisted in resolving customer escalations and conflicts while maintaining brand standards and delivering reliable service quality. Supported team efforts to meet store sales objectives through motivation, accountability, and effective promotional execution.
Education
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
Eastern Gateway Community College
Steubenville, OHCriminal Jiustice - Criminjal Justice
Aiken Technical College
Aiken, SCNo Degree - Criminal Justice
Augusta University
Augusta, GAHigh School Diploma -
Lower Cape May Regional High School
Cape May, NJProfessional Management Program -
Columbus State University
Columbus, GA2027
Skills
- Customer support
- System monitoring
- Incident response
- Interview techniques
- Ethical and honest
- Detailed report writing
- Risk assessment
- Investigation management
- Analytical thinking
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Risk analysis
Certification
- Part 107 Licensed UAS Pilot -Federal Aviation Administration • Issued 2025
- Subject Matter Expert - Call Detail Records and Geolocation Data - LexisNexis Risk Solutions • 2019
- Cellebrite Certified Operator - Cellebrite • Issued 2020 (Requires renewal)
- Cellebrite Certified Physical Analyst - Cellebrite • Issued 2020 (Requires renewal)
Timeline
UAS Operator/Team Co-leader/DFR Deployment Manager
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
08.2025 - Current
Investigator Sergeant
Richmond County Sheriff Office
01.2024 - Current
Investigator
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
08.2014 - 04.2024
Deputy Sheriff, Road Patrol
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
09.2011 - 08.2014
Deputy Jailer
Richmond County Sheriff's Office
11.2009 - 09.2011
Assistant Store Manager
American Eagle Outfiters
2007 - 2009
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
Eastern Gateway Community College
Criminal Jiustice - Criminjal Justice
Aiken Technical College
No Degree - Criminal Justice
Augusta University
High School Diploma -
Lower Cape May Regional High School
Professional Management Program -
Columbus State University