Vasharn Simmons
Olive Branch,USA
Summary
Command-level Juvenile Detention Lieutenant with a strong foundation as a Shift Commander in Adult Detention, offering comprehensive expertise in strategic planning, policy development, and complete operational oversight. A proven leader in implementing modern technology, ensuring state compliance, developing budgets, and launching innovative staff training programs. Dedicated to fostering a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement for both staff and residents across diverse correctional environments.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lieutenant, Operations Commander
Desoto County Juvenile Detention Center
Hernando, Mississippi
10.2024 - Current
- Pioneered collaboration with outside detention centers to integrate best practices into facility procedures.
- Spearheaded overhaul of talent acquisition and onboarding processes, establishing a recruiting pipeline that improved staff retention.
- Architected strategy to enhance resident quality of life by securing upgraded therapeutic mattresses and clothing.
- Championed modernization effort through implementation of Guardian RFID for resident tracking, significantly enhancing security.
- Developed innovative training initiatives beyond state mandates to promote continuous professional development.
- Enhanced officer effectiveness by securing upgraded resources, ensuring personnel had tools for safe operations.
Lieutenant/Shift Commander
Desoto County Adult Detention Center
01.2019 - 10.2024
- Achieved over 90% security scan compliance rate (highest in the facility) while managing operations for a 557-bed detention facility.
- Supervisory Security Operations Manager who leads a team of 14 officers, two supervisors, and two nurses, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to protocols.
- Developed and implemented security policies, procedures, and systems to protect personnel and property.
- Conducted comprehensive investigations into sensitive situations, such as staff misconduct and security incidents.
- Collaborated with senior leadership to propose operational and procedural enhancements.
- Developed and implemented security policies, procedures, and systems to protect personnel and property.
- Manage responses and emergency protocols to emergencies and critical security incidents.
- Creates a culture of change within the organization by conducting AARs with staff members to address security incidents.
- Developed and led training programs for staff members, improving security and safety programs.
- Established a mentoring program resulting in multiple subordinates getting promoted to supervisors.
- Monitors the shift security system electronics, such as the Command Cloud database and the electronic Guardian RFID Spartan device.
Branch Manager
Securitas Security
07.2018 - 01.2019
- Managed over 350 security officers, 5 account managers, and 2 office employees, and fostered high-quality customer service mindset.
- Cultivated relationships with clients, assessing security needs and negotiating contracts, including emergency services.
- Developed procedural security measures, risk assessments, and emergency response plans for client locations.
- Oversaw HR functions, conducted recruitment, and coached staff on security protocols.
- Enhanced branch performance by addressing issues utilizing security metrics to stay within budget.
- Developed shift schedules, security procedures, and risk assessments for client job sites.
- Collaborated with C-level executives and cross-functional managers to develop long-term security and financial plans.
- Established and managed cost effective vendor relationships to keep branch supplied with security equipment.
- Advised clients on physical security operations to include supply chain security and loss prevention.
- Collaborated with community organizations and law enforcement agencies to develop comprehensive security strategies for protected properties.
Sergeant/Assistant Shift Commander
Desoto County Adult Detention Center
05.2013 - 07.2018
- Working with minimal supervision supervised 14 officers, managing inmate housing units, booking processes, and security rounds.
- Implemented security policies and procedures, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
- Conducted investigations into misconduct and suspicious activities, maintaining a secure environment.
- Provided leadership and training to security personnel, fostering teamwork and professionalism.
- Maintained partnerships with Federal, State law enforcement and local agencies on inmate management.
- Prioritize officer work assignments based on operational needs.
Director of Recruitment
ITT Technical Institute
01.2012 - 05.2013
Army Recruiting Station Operations Manager
U.S. Army Recruiting Command
04.2001 - 12.2012
Education
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice - Homeland Security & Crisis Mgt.
American Intercontinental University
Schaumburg, IL08.2024
Skills
- Management of security operations
Development of policies and procedures
Risk assessment and mitigation tactics
Incident management protocols
Preparedness for emergencies
Leadership training and mentoring programs
Training in security awareness
Communication proficiency (verbal and written)
De-escalation methods in conflict situations
Certification in first aid and CPR techniques
Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Public safety measures
Awardscertificates
- Detention Center Officer of the Year - DeSoto County Sheriff's Office (10/2018)
- State of Mississippi certified Juvenile Jail Officer (1/2015)
- State of Mississippi certified Jail Officer (1/2015)
Certification
- State of Mississippi certified Jail Officer 10/2015
- State of Mississippi certified Juvenile Jail Officer 10/2015
Accomplishments
Corrections1.com Contributor
- Leadership within correctional facilities: A journey beyond titles 10-2024
- Roundtable: How the corrections profession was challenged in 12-2024
- From burnout to breakthrough: Why counseling is critical in corrections 5-2025
- Leading the Way: How Leadership is Changing (and Why It Matters) Pending publication
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Affiliations
- US Army
Work Preference
Work Type
Full TimeWork Location
On-SiteRemoteHybridImportant To Me
Career advancementWork-life balanceCompany Culture4-day work weekFlexible work hoursWork from home optionStock Options / Equity / Profit SharingTimeline
Lieutenant, Operations Commander
Desoto County Juvenile Detention Center
10.2024 - Current
Lieutenant/Shift Commander
Desoto County Adult Detention Center
01.2019 - 10.2024
Branch Manager
Securitas Security
07.2018 - 01.2019
Sergeant/Assistant Shift Commander
Desoto County Adult Detention Center
05.2013 - 07.2018
Director of Recruitment
ITT Technical Institute
01.2012 - 05.2013
Army Recruiting Station Operations Manager
U.S. Army Recruiting Command
04.2001 - 12.2012
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice - Homeland Security & Crisis Mgt.
American Intercontinental University
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