The Guardian: A Law Enforcement Podcast

S2 E3: Empowering Parents with Trauma-Informed Strategies: An Inside Look at TIPPS and TBRI

In today's episode, Chief Mark Ballard, Dr. Lori Elmore-Staton, and Geoffrey Grant discuss TIPPS, the Trauma-Informed Parenting and Professional Strategies program at Mississippi State University and TBRI, Trust-Based Relational Intervention. The TIPPS program focuses on training, educating, encouraging, and assisting parents in becoming knowledgeable about the nurturing, financial, growth and developmental needs of their children. Register with TIPPS to receive free, personalized developmental resources, toys, and materials for your child, delivered to your home, available to Mississippi families through a partnership with the MS Department of Human Services. TIPPS: https://tipps.extension.msstate.edu/ TBRI: https://child.tcu.edu/about-us/tbri/ Dr. Lori Elmore-Staton is an Associate Professor of Human Development and Family Science at Mississippi State University and is the project director of the TIPPS program. She received her B. A. degree in Psychology and her Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies from Auburn University. Dr. Staton has conducted biophysiological research for more than 15 years, with a special emphasis on sleep and emotion regulation of young children in the context of trauma. Her current work focuses on integrating biophysiological health research into education programs for teachers and parents of underserved populations.

S2 E2: Importance of Cameras and Technology in Public Safety

In today's episode, Chief Mark Ballard and Lee Upchurch talk about the importance cameras and technology in public safety. With 27 years of law enforcement experience, Lee has dedicated a significant portion of his career to narcotics, honing expertise in video and audio narcotic cases. His background includes extensive work in aerial and mobile surveillance, as well as counter-surveillance operations. Transitioning to leadership, Lee spent twelve years as a Chief Deputy overseeing a Sheriff’s Department, Jail, and MDOC County State Work Program. He currently serves with the Starkville Police Department, spearheading the development and management of the Real Time Intelligence Center for the past three years. This innovative initiative centered around the Fusus platform, reflects his commitment to advancing law enforcement practices in an ever-evolving landscape.

S2 E1: NGO Influence on Street Violence

In today's episode, Chief Mark Ballard and Pastor Abdural Lee talk about the importance of non-governmental organizations(NGOs). Non-governmental organizations play a significant role in addressing street violence through community-based solutions, addressing root causes, violence prevention programs, and victim support. Pastor Abdural F. Lee is a resident of Starkville MS , he spent twelve years in Chicago as a child before relocating back to Starkville. He is the proud father of eight children, and has two grandchildren. He is happily married for nine years to Mrs. Latara Lee . He has attended the Ministerial Institute an College, where he received his degree of biblical studies , he also attended New Orleans Baptist seminary theology college, where he received his Pastoral degree, and is now currently attending Andersonville Baptist seminary, where he is earning his bachelor’s in theology! He is also the proud pastor of Sand Creek Missionary Baptist Church, where he has pastored for five years, he is a person who loves outreach and sharing in the opportunities to grow our community!

Episode 6: Future of Home Security & Collaboration

In today's episode, Chief Mark Ballard, Senator Bart Williams and Felicia Morris talk about the future of home security and collaboration with law enforcement to enhance public safety. Senator Bart Williams lives in Starkville MS and is married to Cynthia Jackson Williams. He has two daughters, Gracieann, and Emily. He graduated Mississippi State University in 1989 with a degree in Industrial Technology and began his career as an Industrial Engineer in 1989. In 1993 Bart started his business out of his house & after 5 years he left his Engineering career to run his company, Security Solutions & Communications full time. Security Solutions is currently in its 30th year. The company has been serving North Mississippi since 1993. Bart was elected to and began serving in the Mississippi Senate in October 2020. Edited by: Felicia Morris Produced by: Madison Audo

Episode 5: Off-Campus Student Safety

In today's episode, Chief Mark Ballard, Ellie Herndon and Madison Audo talk about off-campus student safety. Ellie, who serves as Mississippi State University’s Student Body President, is a senior double majoring in Supply Chain Logistics and Management. This is her fourth year serving the student body within the Student Association. Previously, Ellie served as a member of Freshman Forum, a Co-Director of Community and Governmental Relations on Cabinet her sophomore year, and as Student Association Treasurer on the Executive Council her junior year. Outside of the Student Association, Ellie is also a College of Business Ambassador, a member of Programming Staff for New Maroon Camp, an Alumni Delegate, and a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. Ellie is grateful for the opportunity to serve MSU students. Edited by: Felicia Morris Produced by: Felicia Morris