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This life of service is yours too — in memory of Mom & Dad

 

Ever since I was a child, I have known exactly what I wanted to do — serve in law enforcement. I have often said I am one of the lucky ones because I never had to wonder what my purpose was. This profession has always felt like a calling, and every day I am honored to serve alongside the dedicated men and women who protect and serve Howard County.

Working on this page took me the longest. It made me stop and think, not just about where I am today but how I got here. Life has a way of reminding you that no one makes it alone. I did not climb this path by myself. I have had mentors who believed in me, colleagues who pushed me to be better, friends and family who kept me grounded, and even people who challenged me when I needed it most.

Some gave me opportunities when I had not earned them yet. Others trusted me to learn from failure and come back stronger. Every experience, good or bad, helped shape the person and the professional I have become.

None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my family. My career has asked a lot of them — missed anniversaries, games, concerts, birthdays, and big moments that I will never get back. But not once have they made me feel guilty for chasing this calling. Their sacrifice has been quiet, consistent, and unconditional. My wife, Layna, has been my rock for over 20 years. She is not only an incredible mom but also an RN, soon to be a Family Nurse Practitioner, and the most selfless partner I could ask for. Together, we are raising three amazing kids: Mason (16), Makayla (13), and Myles (10). Everything I have accomplished professionally rests on the foundation of their love, patience, and understanding.

So while my name may be at the top of this page, the accomplishments that follow belong to something bigger than me. They belong to all of us who walked this journey together.

Summary

In 2019, I was promoted to the rank of Captain by Sheriff Jerry Asher. In this position, I oversee daily operations of the patrol division and the 911 dispatch center at a command level, including resource allocation, policy compliance, and administrative planning. I handle personnel matters such as evaluations, promotions, discipline, and scheduling. I assist in recruitment and training, and I participate in budgeting and planning processes.

Transitioning into command staff is one of the hardest transitions an officer can make. Your mission changes. It is no longer about being the one responding to the call, it is about making sure your people are equipped, trained, and supported to do that job at the highest level. Your focus moves from "doing" to "leading." It is no longer about you, it is about them.

Since joining Sheriff Asher’s administrative team, we have worked through some of the most challenging times our nation has seen and still managed to accomplish more than I ever thought possible. Here is just a short list of what I am proud to have had a hand in:

  • Helped establish a specialized five-member Sheriff’s Task Force dedicated to identifying and apprehending child predators and addressing violent crime in our community

  • Launched a new Sheriff’s Office app and website, and expanded our social media presence to enhance transparency, communication, and community engagement

  • Introduced synchronized vehicle lighting systems to increase visibility and improve safety for both officers and the public

  • Modernized daily duty uniforms to enhance comfort, functionality, and officer safety on the job

  • Established meaningful memorials to honor the dedication and sacrifice of Howard County’s fallen and retired public servants, while also recognizing and celebrating those who continue to serve with unwavering commitment and a spirit of service beyond self

Early Years

  • Born and raised in Howard County

  • Lived in Russiaville, Kokomo & Greentown

  • Attended Western Elementary School

  • Graduated from Eastern High School

  • Attended Indiana University Kokomo - Criminal Justice

Law Enforcement Career Path & Experience

  • Kokomo Police Cadet (1994-1999)*

  • Greentown Special Police (1999-2000)*

  • Howard County Emergency Management Police Officer (2000-2003)*

  • Miami Correctional Facility - Corrections Officer & Corrections Sergeant (2001-2005)

  • Greentown Police Department - Reserve Deputy Marshal (2004-2006)*

  • Howard County Sheriff’s Office - 911 Dispatcher (2005-2006)

  • Howard County Sheriff’s Office - Deputy Sheriff (2006-Present) I have held the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant, Detective, and currently Captain

* Indicates a volunteer non-paid position.

Awards

  • Commendation - Greentown Police Department (2006)

  • Commendation - Howard County Sheriff’s Office (2008)

  • Medal of Honor - Howard County Sheriff’s Office (2016)

  • Purple Heart - Howard County Sheriff’s Office (2016)

  • Commendation - Howard County Sheriff’s Office (2016)

  • Pillar of the Community Award - Howard County Board of Commissioners (2016)

  • Commendation - Howard County Sheriff’s Office (2024)

Certifications

  • Indiana Law Enforcement Academy - Tier 1 Certified Police Officer (2006-Present)

  • Breath Test Certified - (2006-Present)

  • DARE Instructor - (2007-2012)

  • Field Training Officer (2010-Present)

  • Reid Interview Technique - (2012)

  • Advanced Reid Interview Technique - (2012)

  • Crime Scene School - (2012)

  • IMPD Leadership Academy - 160 hour course (2019)

  • FAA Certified Remote Pilot - (2020-Present)

Specialty Teams

  • SWAT Team - (2009-2023)

  • Drone Unit - (2012-Present)

    • Founded the unit.

    • Currently the Chief Pilot

Political Experience

  • Eastern Howard School Corporation - Board of School Trustees President (2014-Present)

    • I was appointed in 2014 and subsequently elected in the next two elections.

    • I have held the titles of Board President (4 times), Vice-President & Secretary

    • Oversee an operating budget of $21 Million

  • Howard County Republican Party Central Committee (2020-Present)

    • Elected Secretary (2020)

    • Elected Vice-Chairman (2020-Present)

  • Elected Precinct Committeeman (2020-Present)

  • Elected State Delegate (2020-Present)

  • Testified in front of the Indiana House of Representatives & Senate in support of the 25’ Officer Safety Law (2024).

Other Info

  • FlatTop Geek, LLC - Owner - Specializes in computers, networking, electronics & surveillance system installations (1994-Present).

  • Amateur Radio Operator - Extra Class (1994-Present)

  • Great Highland Bagpipe Player - (2019-Present)

  • Heat Waves Mobile DJ - Owner - DJ Service for events (2020-Present)

  • Repperts School of Auctioneering - Class valedictorian (2025)

    • State Licensed Professional Auctioneer (2025-Present)




Paid for by the Committee to Elect Buckley for Sheriff
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