James Long

Before creating the PRI program, James spent years working as a uniform patrol officer responding to various calls for service. James has gained a wide range of knowledge and experience during his career. With 11.5 years as a patrol officer and over 7 years as a detective, James has brought a great deal of first hand, real life experience to developing solutions. Solutions, to bridging a gap between law enforcement and the community as it relates to what we all fear the most… The loss of innocent lives. Weekly calls for service to city schools, put James in a position to speak with school administrators about their concerns for safety and how they could expect police officers to keep them safe when attacks occur. It is from these conversations James developed a great passion for finding solutions and improving police responses.

Raised in northern Alabama, James earned his Eagle Scout at age 15 and graduated Bob Jones High School in 2002. James served with the Alabama Army National Guard as an infantry soldier (MOS 11M), training in urban tactical assault. Afterwards, working full time as a security officer supervisor at a local hospital in Huntsville, AL. James supervised multiple security officers providing safety and security for all patients and employees. Learning a great deal about dealing with persons in crisis.

James attended both Baton Rouge Community College and Louisiana State University, until Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, causing devastation. This was James’s first experience with a large scale natural disaster and a time where James learned first hand the importance of effective response by public safety.

James moved to Arizona in December of 2005, continuing his education in criminology and sociology at Arizona State University. In February 2007, James made the leap to become a sworn law enforcement officer for the city of Avondale, AZ.

Throughout his career James has served in many roles, and attained training in many disciplines;

Crisis Intervention Trained Officer (CIT)

Critical Incident Stress Management Officer (CISM)

Active Shooter/Threat Response Training Instructor (Certified by DHS)

Tactical Hostage/Crisis Negotiator for SWAT/TOU

Gang Liaison Officer (GLO)

Field Training Officer (FTO), training patrol and Criminal Investigations

Mobile Field Force Officer (Riot Control)

Detective (Criminal Investigator)

In 2018, James re-enlisted with the Arizona Army National Guard, as an infantry soldier (MOS 11B), to fulfill his commitment, obtain further training, and further serve the community.

With over 19 years of law enforcement experience, James still continues to serve and work towards improved public safety.