Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
TRAINING & EDUCATION
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Certification
US ARMY TRAINING
References
AWARDS
Languages
Timeline
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Thomas Cullen

Naples,Florida

Summary

Investigative professional with strong track record in uncovering and analyzing crucial information. Known for reliability and adaptability, ensuring team collaboration and successful outcomes. Skilled in surveillance, data analysis, and problem-solving, bringing precision and integrity to every task.

Overview

38
38
years of professional experience
1
1

Certified Florida Law Enforcement

1
1

Licensed Notary

1
1

Certified Firearms Instructor

1
1

Certified BLS, CPR AED Instructor

1
1

Pa Act 120

1
1

Pa Act 235

1
1

CIT certified

Work History

Sr. Investigative Specialist

Collier County Sheriff's Office
05.2022 - Current
  • Assigned to Special Crimes Bureau, to investigate crimes against children and prepare intelligence and gather information to pass along to detectives
  • Analyzed crime trends and patterns to inform strategic decision-making initiatives.
  • Analyze data to identify trends and patterns.
  • Generate/review case summary reports.
  • Communicate with victims/suspects/other agencies.
  • Retrieve and disseminate information for agency personnel.
  • Review documentation to develop criminal predicates.
  • Analyze data to identify trends and patterns.

Retired Detective Seargeant

Collier County Sheriff's Office
03.2003 - 05.2022

ASSIGNMENTS:

Patrol, Selective Enforcement Team (SET), Hostage Negotiation Team Leader, Criminal Investigations (Felony), USDHS HSI Task Force, Homicide Division, Special Crimes Bureau.


DUTIES

  • Investigated complex criminal cases, employing advanced investigative techniques and analytical skills.
  • Collaborated with local, state, and federal agencies to enhance case resolution efficiency.
  • Conducted interviews and interrogations to gather critical evidence and witness testimonies.
  • Analyzed crime scene evidence using forensic tools to establish timelines and patterns.
  • Developed comprehensive case reports for prosecution, ensuring clarity and legal compliance.
  • Trained junior detectives in investigative procedures, enhancing team effectiveness and knowledge sharing.
  • Obtained and served search warrants related to ongoing cases.
  • Prioritized multiple active cases efficiently by continually reassessing urgency levels based on emerging factors such as public safety concerns or new leads.
  • Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information while sharing vital intelligence with appropriate colleagues for effective case resolution.
  • Interviewed suspects and witnesses using skilled interrogation techniques for gathering crucial information related to investigations.
  • Wrote detailed reports outlining case findings for internal files and legal purposes.
  • Participated in court hearings to provide written reports, evidence and verbal testimonies.
  • Preserved evidence for court hearings and checked integrity of individual pieces.
  • Developed strong relationships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies for collaborative efforts in solving high-profile cases.
  • Delivered calm, professional testimony to support case evidence, establish timelines, and offer law enforcement expertise.
  • Kept meticulous and detailed records of each case to avoid causing any problems with prosecution.
  • Acted as a liaison between the detective division and community members, fostering trust and strengthening communication channels for improved crime reporting.
  • Manage and direct crime scenes and personnel for investigations.
  • Coordinated crime scene searches methodically for comprehensive evidence collection ensuring no critical elements are missed.
  • Consulted and cooperated with legal staff to verify timely and efficient investigation completion.
  • Supervised and motivated field investigators and collaborated with personnel to identify strengths and areas of weakness.
  • Collected crime scene evidence, examined bodies, and investigated secondary locations to build detailed cases based on sound evidence handling practices.
  • Substantiated validity and admissibility of evidence and preserved data integrity for court hearings.
  • Marked off crime scenes and controlled access to protect evidence from tampering or loss.
  • Prepared case reports from allegations, transcripts of interviews and physical evidence.
  • Collected information pertaining to criminal proceedings and performed investigations to resolve cases.
  • Oversaw criminal cases, coordinated investigations, and prepared evidence and investigators for court cases.
  • Collected and preserved physical evidence, photographs and laboratory submissions.
  • Secured search warrants to investigate scenes of crimes and collect evidence.
  • Collected, analyzed and interpreted information, documentation, and physical evidence associated with investigations.
  • Analyzed crime patterns to predict and prevent future criminal activity.
  • Enhanced interrogation techniques, leading to increased confession rates and case closures.
  • Managed complex case loads efficiently, prioritizing tasks for optimum outcomes.
  • Mentored junior detectives, sharing knowledge and experience to enhance their investigative skills.
  • Led undercover operations to infiltrate criminal organizations, resulting in significant arrests and convictions.
  • Strengthened relationships with community, building trust and aiding in crime prevention.
  • Collaborated with international law enforcement agencies to address global crime issues, enhancing security efforts.
  • Negotiated peaceful resolutions in hostage situations, ensuring safety of all involved.

Enlisted Soldier

US Army
08.1987 - 04.2004
  • Led training exercises to enhance team readiness and operational effectiveness.
  • Coordinated logistics for equipment and supplies to support mission objectives.
  • Implemented safety protocols, ensuring compliance with military regulations.
  • Mentored junior soldiers, fostering professional development and teamwork.
  • Operated and maintained armored vehicles.
  • Collaborated with fellow service members from other branches during joint exercises, demonstrating adaptability and teamwork capabilities.
  • Oversaw maintenance of equipment, enhancing reliability and performance standards.

Police Officer

City of Johnstown Police Department
04.1995 - 02.2003
  • To create a positive image and professional appearance as a member of the Police Department.
  • Enforced laws and regulations to maintain public safety and order in community.
  • Conducted thorough investigations of criminal activities, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
  • Collaborated with community organizations to develop crime prevention strategies and enhance public relations.
  • Managed emergency response operations, ensuring efficient coordination among multiple agencies during critical incidents.
  • Trained new officers on departmental policies, procedures, and best practices for effective law enforcement.
  • Analyzed crime trends and data to identify potential hotspots and allocate resources effectively.
  • Developed and implemented community outreach programs to foster trust between police department and residents.
  • Oversaw daily patrols, ensuring proactive engagement with community members to deter criminal activity.
  • Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices, maintaining a high level of expertise within the field of law enforcement.
  • Displayed sound judgment under pressure when making critical decisions that impact public safety during emergency situations.
  • Utilized excellent communication skills when interacting with diverse populations, fostering trust between law enforcement and the community members they serve.
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
  • Enhanced public safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.
  • Patrolled assigned areas to check homes, businesses, and public roads for signs of disturbance.
  • Secured crime scenes, gathered evidence, and questioned witnesses.
  • Handled domestic disputes tactfully, de-escalating tensions while providing appropriate support to affected individuals.
  • Effectively diffused potentially dangerous situations through verbal negotiation techniques before escalating force was necessary.
  • Reduced criminal activity in assigned areas through proactive policing and community engagement.
  • Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses, and damage to property.
  • Trained new officers on department policies and procedures, fostering a professional work environment focused on public service.
  • Testified effectively in court, contributing to successful prosecutions of offenders.
  • Conducted thorough investigations for various cases, leading to timely resolutions and justice served.
  • Conducted witness interviews and gathered details regarding incidents to determine best course of action.
  • Enforced traffic laws diligently, promoting road safety and reducing accident rates.
  • Responded immediately to reports of automobile accidents and criminal activity, calling for additional support as necessary.
  • Maintained accurate case records and documentation, ensuring proper evidence handling and information sharing among relevant parties.
  • Conducted preliminary investigations at scenes of major crimes.
  • Managed crowd control during events, ensuring public safety while minimizing disruptions to attendees or surrounding communities.
  • Patrolled assigned areas to prevent and detect roadway crimes.
  • Apprehended offenders and conducted interviews and interrogations.
  • Apprehended suspects, read Miranda Rights, and transported offenders to jail.
  • Enforced traffic laws and ordinances through visual observation and radar speed detection.
  • Mentored junior officers on the importance of ethical behavior, accountability, and professionalism in their role as public servants.
  • Developed strong rapport with local businesses owners to address concerns about crime or vandalism affecting their establishments.
  • Collaborated with other law enforcement agencies to solve complex cases and apprehend dangerous criminals.
  • Assisted in the development of crime prevention strategies, resulting in safer neighborhoods.
  • Supported supervisors with administrative tasks such as scheduling shifts and managing equipment inventory, increasing department efficiency and organization.
  • Implemented community outreach initiatives that strengthened partnerships between residents and local law enforcement agencies.
  • Served as a school resource officer, improving relationships between youth and police through positive interactions and educational programs.
  • Responded to emergency calls to provide assistance to citizens in need.
  • Conducted searches of individuals, vehicles and premises.
  • Utilized clear communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with citizens.
  • Provided testimony in court proceedings.
  • Built excellent rapport and working relationship with community to build trust and improve upon communication.
  • Identified, pursued and arrested suspects and perpetrators of criminal acts.
  • Performed rescue functions at accidents, emergencies and disasters by directing traffic and administering emergency medical aid.
  • Participated in continuous firearms proficiency, defensive driving and arrest technique training.
  • Monitored criminal activity in community to identify suspicious activity.
  • Monitored traffic violations, issuing citations as necessary.
  • Assisted in special investigations and crime prevention programs.
  • Monitored crowded public areas and events to mitigate risk and promote safety.
  • Handled citation and traffic violation paperwork.
  • Checked vehicle equipment for proper functioning prior to use.
  • Obtained information from arrested subjects to conduct debriefings.
  • Thoroughly analyzed criminal information and processed crime scenes.
  • Trained other officers in firearms and self-defense tactics.

Dispatcher/ Communications Officer

Altoona Police Department
11.1994 - 04.1995
  • Answering emergency and non-emergency phone calls, prioritizing calls and dispatching police, fire and EMS
  • Providing radio communications for public safety, creating initial field reports.
  • Coordinated emergency response efforts among law enforcement, fire, and medical services.
  • Monitored radio communications to ensure timely dispatch of units to incidents.
  • Maintained accurate records of calls, incidents, and unit responses for reporting purposes.
  • Developed protocols for efficient communication within the department and with external agencies.
  • Managed high-stress situations calmly and effectively, ensuring timely assistance to those in need.

Security/ Certified Police Officer

Altoona Hospital Police Department
01.1992 - 01.1994
  • Operate hospital shuttle services, provide security and safety for hospital property, staff, visitors, patients and off site properties.
  • Enforced regulations and maintained public safety within hospital grounds.
  • Conducted thorough investigations of incidents, gathering evidence and witness statements.
  • Responded promptly to emergencies, coordinating with local law enforcement as needed.
  • Maintained public trust and confidence with professional demeanor, open communication, and active engagement in community events.

Police Officer/ Officer in Charge (Acting Chief of Police)

Saxton Police Department
01.1991 - 01.1992
  • Enforced laws and regulations to maintain public safety and order.
  • Conducted thorough investigations of crimes, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
  • Collaborated with community organizations to enhance crime prevention initiatives.
  • Trained junior officers on departmental policies and emergency response protocols.
  • Developed strategic plans for community policing efforts to foster trust with residents.
  • Implemented new crime analysis software, improving data accuracy for reporting purposes.
  • Led crisis intervention teams, managing high-stress situations effectively and safely.
  • Evaluated operational procedures, recommending improvements to enhance department efficiency.
  • Supervised daily operations to ensure compliance with departmental policies and community safety standards.
  • Led training programs for new officers, enhancing team performance and operational effectiveness.
  • Developed strategic initiatives to improve community engagement and reduce crime rates.
  • Coordinated multi-agency responses to critical incidents, optimizing resource allocation and response times.
  • Analyzed crime data trends to inform policy recommendations and resource deployment strategies.
  • Mentored junior staff in investigative procedures, fostering professional development and knowledge transfer.
  • Implemented process improvements that enhanced emergency response protocols and officer safety measures.
  • Managed departmental budgets and resources, ensuring fiscal responsibility while maintaining service quality.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring smooth execution of tasks and timely completion of projects.
  • Fostered a positive work environment by cultivating strong relationships among team members and promoting open communication channels.
  • Conducted thorough risk assessments for various operational scenarios, ensuring safety and mission success.
  • Improved overall unit efficiency by implementing streamlined processes and procedures.
  • Recognized for exceptional leadership skills, receiving multiple commendations for outstanding performance as OfficerinCharge.
  • Maintained strict compliance with regulations, ensuring adherence to established policies and procedures.
  • Managed allocation of resources, optimizing budgetary planning and minimizing waste.
  • Executed strategic planning initiatives that aligned with overall organizational goals.
  • Enhanced team performance through consistent coaching and mentorship of junior personnel.
  • Optimized resource utilization by allocating appropriate personnel to priority tasks based on skill set analysis.
  • Utilized advanced management techniques in order to maximize efficiency while maintaining high levels of morale.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration, leveraging diverse expertise to optimize problem-solving capabilities within the unit.
  • Conducted data-driven decision-making processes that led to improved organizational performance.
  • Ensured operational readiness by conducting regular equipment inspections and maintenance routines.
  • Collaborated effectively with multi-disciplinary teams to achieve common objectives within tight deadlines.
  • Resolved complex issues through critical thinking and effective communication with stakeholders.
  • Developed comprehensive training programs tailored to individual skill sets, resulting in increased proficiency among personnel.
  • Ordered, unloaded, sorted and tracked supplies and equipment needed for unit activities.
  • Led team in developing strategic plans to meet operational objectives.
  • Handled administrative requirements, maintained records and submitted operational reports.
  • Communicated with command centers to develop and execute tactical plans.
  • Monitored and assessed mission progress and provided updates to command.
  • Devised and implemented battle plans to achieve tactical objectives.
  • Developed and implemented plans to reduce risk to personnel and equipment during tactical operations.
  • Analyzed intelligence reports and identified potential tactical threats.
  • Supervised manual and automated supply strategies, and connected with supply and data processing teams to facilitate communication and collaboration.
  • Directed collection, organization and application of field intelligence and combat data to enhance troop safety and operational success.
  • Coordinated activities of subordinate personnel to support mission success.
  • Created contingency plans to address unexpected tactical scenarios.
  • Prepared and delivered investigative reports and briefings.
  • Integrated intelligence activities into other military operations, plans and programs.

Education

High School Diploma -

Altoona Area High School
Altoona, PA
06-1987

No Degree - CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Florida SouthWestern State College
Naples, FL

Skills

  • Research
  • Digital forensics
  • Crime scene investigation
  • Interview techniques
  • Surveillance techniques
  • Legal compliance
  • Background checks
  • Investigative tools proficiency
  • Evidence collection
  • Detailed report writing
  • Ethical and honest
  • Calm in crisis situations
  • Evidence processing
  • Interrogation skills
  • Risk assessment
  • Witness interviews
  • Interviewing witnesses
  • Defensive tactics
  • Crime prevention
  • Due diligence
  • Risk analysis
  • Action planning
  • Undercover operations
  • Report preparation
  • Covert investigations
  • Investigation management
  • Undercover investigations
  • Top secret US government security clearance
  • Records handling
  • Skilled interrogator
  • Evidence collection and preservation
  • Interview coordination
  • Fugitive location and apprehension
  • Deadline and results-oriented
  • Interrogating suspects
  • Homicide investigations
  • Interrogation expert
  • Crime scene analysis
  • Research skills
  • Teamwork
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Multitasking
  • Multitasking ability
  • Reliability
  • Critical thinking
  • Organizational skills
  • Team collaboration
  • Active listening
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Case documentation
  • Decision-making
  • Collaborative teamwork
  • Relationship building

TRAINING & EDUCATION

  • CHILD HOMICIDE INVESTIGATIONS
  • ARRESTING COMMUNICATION
  • INVESTIGATION – DETECTING STRANGULATION
  • INVESTIGATION – ROPE ANALYSIS
  • RECOGNIZING FRAUDULENT ID DOCUMENTS
  • MENTALLY ILL CRISIS INTERVENTION
  • BASIC HOMICIDE INVESTIGATIONS
  • ADVANCED HANDGUN TECHNIQUES
  • U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY 287g
  • U.S. CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT TITLE 19
  • HOSTAGE NEGOTIATIONS I & II
  • ADVANCED HANDGUN TECHNIQUES
  • LINE SUPERVISION
  • CMS FIELD TRAINING OFFICER
  • STAKEOUT & SURVEILLANCE
  • GRID IRON LEADERSHIP
  • INCIDENT COMMAND
  • HIGHWAY INTERDICTION
  • DRUG IDENTIFICATION
  • DRUG INVESTIGATIONS I & II
  • SEX CRIMES INVESTIGATIONS
  • HUMAN TRAFFICKING
  • STAKEOUT & SURVEILLANCE
  • DOMESTIC TERRORISM
  • EXPLOSIVES, BOOBY TRAPS & BOMB THREAT MGMT
  • CRIMINAL LAW
  • RAVE & CLUB DRUG INVESTIGATIONS
  • GRIDIRON LEADERSHIP
  • BASIC & ADVANCED STREET GANG TRAINING
  • STREET GANG INVESTIGATIONS BASIC AND ADVANCED
  • CLANDESTINE LABORATORY INVESTIGATIONS
  • POLICE INTELLIGENCE
  • SCHOOL VIOLENCE
  • DRUG RECOGNITION
  • CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN INVESTIGATIONS
  • SOUTHEASTERN PUBLIC SAFETY INSTITUTE (EOT)
  • PA REGIONAL POLICE ACADEMY
  • PA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FIRST RESPONDER
  • PA STATE FIRE ACADEMY HAZMAT
  • PENNSYLVANIA BASIC LETHAL WEAPONS TRAINING
  • U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE F.B.I. – INTERVIEW/INTERROGATION
  • PA STATE POLICE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR COURSE
  • NATIONAL TACTICAL OFFICERS ASSOCIATION – BASIC SWAT
  • PA DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION ­ MOTOR CARRIER ENFORCEMENT
  • SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER/ MENTOR TRAINING SEMINAR – GREAT JOHNSTOWN SCHOOL DISTRICT
  • DOMESTIC VIOLENCE TRAINING

Accomplishments

  • COMMAND RECOGNITION X 5 (2005,2006,2007,2009, 2010)
  • LETTER OF COMMENDATION
  • LETTER TO FILE X 4
  • LIFE SAVING AWARD (2006, 2008)
  • CRASH FREE AWARD
  • GOOD CONDUCT AWARD x 4
  • PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT
  • Military

  • ARMY COMMENDATION MEDAL
  • PENNSYLVANIA COMMENDATION MEDAL
  • PENNSYLVANIA ARMY NATIONL GUARD RECRUITING AND RETENTION MEDAL

Affiliations

  • Motorcycles
  • Music
  • Outdoors
  • Fishing

Certification

  • FLORIDA LICENSED NOTARY
  • FLORIDA LAW ENFORCEMENT CERTIFIED
  • PA ACT 120 (EXP)
  • PA ACT 235 (EXP)
  • ORDAINED MINISTER ST LUKE AVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES
  • US TITLE 287G
  • US TITLE 19

US ARMY TRAINING

  • SINCGARS INSTRUCTOR COURSE
  • COMBAT LIFESAVER COURSE
  • CHAPLAIN SUPPORT (BASIC)
  • SINCGARS MAINTENANCE
  • ELECTRICAL SAFETY
  • COMMAND POST OPERATIONS
  • SURVIVAL IN NBC ENVIRONMENT
  • SIGNAL LEADERSHIP COURSE
  • INFANTRY FIRE TEAM LEADERSHIP TECHNIQUES
  • MECHANIZED INFANTRY SQUAD OPERATIONS
  • SAFEGUARDING DEFENSE INFORMATION
  • USE AND MAINTENANCE OF PROTECTIVE MASKS AND CLOTHING
  • NBC ENVIRONMENTAL SURVIVAL
  • LAND NAVIGATION
  • INTRO TO MANPADS AND STINGER MISSILES
  • SMALL ARMS DEFENSE AGAINST AIR ATTACKS
  • TACTICAL PATROLLING

References

References available upon request.

AWARDS

  • COMMAND RECOGNITION X 5 (2005,2006,2007,2009, 2010)
  • LETTER OF COMMENDATION
  • LETTER TO FILE X 4
  • LIFE SAVING AWARD (2006, 2008)
  • CRASH FREE AWARD
  • GOOD CONDUCT AWARD x 4
  • PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT



Military
ARMY COMMENDATION MEDAL
PENNSYLVANIA COMMENDATION MEDAL
PENNSYLVANIA ARMY NATIONL GUARD RECRUITING AND RETENTION MEDAL

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Timeline

Sr. Investigative Specialist

Collier County Sheriff's Office
05.2022 - Current

Retired Detective Seargeant

Collier County Sheriff's Office
03.2003 - 05.2022

Police Officer

City of Johnstown Police Department
04.1995 - 02.2003

Dispatcher/ Communications Officer

Altoona Police Department
11.1994 - 04.1995

Security/ Certified Police Officer

Altoona Hospital Police Department
01.1992 - 01.1994

Police Officer/ Officer in Charge (Acting Chief of Police)

Saxton Police Department
01.1991 - 01.1992

Enlisted Soldier

US Army
08.1987 - 04.2004

High School Diploma -

Altoona Area High School

No Degree - CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Florida SouthWestern State College