The Guardian: A Law Enforcement Podcast

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.

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!

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

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

In today's episode, Chief Mark Ballard, Sandy Middleton and Felicia Morris talk about human trafficking.

Executive Director of the Center for Violence Prevention, Sandy Middleton, is a devoted ally for awareness of domestic violence and human trafficking. Sandy has a B.A. in English Language and Literature and a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration. She is a Certified Rapid Response Human Trafficking Advocate and was awarded the 2014 FBI Community Service Award for the Center. Sandy was also recognized by the Mississippi Business Journal in 2018 as one of the Top 10 in the 50 Top Business Women. Throughout her 18 years at the center, the budget, staff, and programs have increased significantly to assist victims. With a background in political and non-profit development and consulting, Sandy served as a board member and Legislative Director for the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence as well as a board member for Mississippians Against Human Trafficking. She has worked to pass legislation to improve victim safety and hold offenders accountable. Her admirable resume includes experience in the Attorney General’s Human Trafficking Fund, Mississippi’s Domestic Violence Task Force, Governor Bryant’s Human Trafficking Task Force. Sandy has even trained law enforcement officers at the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer’s Training Academy. Her motivational Bible verse is: “Rescue the weak and needy, deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 82:4

Edited by: Felicia Morris

Produced by: Madison Audo

In today’s episode, Chief Mark Ballard, Lieutenant Tyler Davis, and Madison Audo talk about the importance of law enforcement tactical training.

Tyler, a Houston, Mississippi native, is a former U.S. Marshal Gulf Coast Fugitive Task Force Team Leader and the current Starkville Police Department SWAT Team Leader. He most recently worked as the Starkville Police Department’s Narcotics Sergeant, with 5 years of experience in fugitive apprehension. He and his team have revolutionized the department’s investigative techniques and abilities through technology. These new techniques have resulted in seizures of more than $350,000 and an increase in felony case closures by over 30% during his first year in the position. Starting as a patrol officer in 2011, he has built an impressive resume that has led him to the position of Investigative Division Lieutenant, where he supervises police detectives and narcotics agents.

Edited by: Felicia Morris

Produced by: Felicia Morris

In today’s episode, Chief Mark Ballard, Brian Montgomery, and Cpl. Chris Jackson talk about protecting our kids online.

Brian’s son Walker attended Starkville Academy, where he excelled in academics and football. Walker enjoyed running heavy machinery and working on the farm with his family. He had a tremendous work ethic. He had an innate and boundless appreciation and love for the outdoors, and he particularly loved bow-hunting with his father.

Walker ended his own life in 2022 after falling victim to a sextortion scam. The event would turn the Montgomery’s life upside down and give Brian a new mission to use Walker’s life-and-death to shed light on the growing epidemic of sextortion.

Edited by: Felicia Morris

Produced by: Madison Audo, Felicia Morris

In today’s episode, Chief Mark Ballard, Felicia Morris, and Mrs. Karyn Brown talk about the importance of social and digital media in law enforcement.

Mrs. Brown is the Director and Instructor of Communications at Mississippi State University and former Executive Director for North Carolina Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Mrs. Brown worked in different forms of journalism and communications after starting her college career in Chicago as a broadcast journalism major. She has taught both broadcasting as well as public relations as a professor.

Edited by: Felicia Morris

Produced by: Madison Audo