Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Cole Mekley

El Paso

Summary

Professional investigator with strong track record in solving complex cases and uncovering critical information. Skilled in surveillance, evidence gathering, and data analysis, ensuring thorough and accurate investigations. Strong team player with focus on collaboration and adaptability, consistently achieving results in dynamic environments. Known for reliability, analytical thinking, and effective communication.

Experienced with investigative techniques critical to uncovering facts and solving cases. Utilizes keen analytical skills to identify patterns and connections. Track record of maintaining high ethical standards while gathering evidence and conducting interviews.

Professional law enforcement specialist prepared for role, bringing valuable investigative experience and problem-solving abilities. Known for strong focus on team collaboration and reliable adaptability to changing circumstances. Recognized for keen analytical skills and unwavering dedication to ethical standards.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Detective

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
12.2024 - Current
  • Obtained and served search warrants related to ongoing cases.
  • Prioritized multiple active cases efficiently by continually reassessing urgency levels based on emerging factors such as public safety concerns or new leads.
  • Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information while sharing vital intelligence with appropriate colleagues for effective case resolution.
  • Mentored junior detectives to improve their investigative skills, fostering a collaborative team environment.
  • Interviewed suspects and witnesses using skilled interrogation techniques for gathering crucial information related to investigations.
  • Solved complex cases by utilizing advanced investigative techniques and collaborating with fellow detectives.

SWAT Operator

Central Illinois Emergency Response Team
06.2022 - Current
  • Assisted in the recruitment and selection process for new SWAT members, identifying top candidates based on skills, experience, and aptitude for teamwork.
  • Conducted regular equipment inspections and maintained inventory control for optimal operational effectiveness.
  • Increased successful mission outcomes through meticulous planning and execution of high-risk operations.
  • Improved inter-agency collaboration by fostering strong relationships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
  • Maintained a high level of physical fitness and marksmanship skills, contributing to overall team readiness for critical incidents.
  • Maintained a strong working knowledge of specialized equipment, such as breaching tools, ballistic shields, and less-lethal weapons systems.
  • Safeguarded community members by providing security at large-scale events where potential risks were identified.
  • Supported narcotics investigations through coordinated raids targeting drug distribution networks leading to arrests and seizure of illegal substances.
  • Delivered specialized training sessions to fellow officers on topics such as breaching techniques, close-quarters combat tactics, and firearms proficiency.
  • Secured crime scenes, gathered evidence, and questioned witnesses.

Deputy Sheriff

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
12.2021 - Current
  • Handled high-pressure situations calmly and professionally, minimizing risks to public safety.
  • Served warrants efficiently while maintaining strict adherence to legal guidelines and procedures.
  • Assessed potentially dangerous situations quickly; employed de-escalation techniques when needed to maintain peace.
  • Collaborated with other law enforcement agencies for joint operations, resulting in improved efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Participated actively in ongoing training programs designed to enhance skills necessary for deputy sheriff duties.
  • Reduced criminal activity through diligent surveillance, proactive policing, and collaboration with local businesses and residents.

Security Consultant

Rivian Automotive Inc.
07.2021 - 12.2021
  • Delivered meticulous project management to effectively resolve complex challenges.
  • Reduced response time by delegating tasks in response to natural disasters, environmental accidents and hazardous materials management.
  • Created and implemented innovative virtual training tool to support surveillance and security of facilities and premises.
  • Increased quality control by monitoring materials for compliance and to eliminate process lags.

Deputy Sheriff

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
02.2021 - 07.2021
  • Assisted in the training of new deputies, sharing knowledge and experiences to help them excel in their roles.
  • Maintained accurate reports and records, aiding in the proper documentation of cases for judicial proceedings.
  • Coordinated with social services agencies like Child Protective Services or mental health specialists as required during specific incidents.
  • Investigated incidents and crimes, collected evidence, and recorded witness statements.

Police Officer

El Paso Police Department
07.2020 - 02.2021
  • Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices, maintaining a high level of expertise within the field of law enforcement.
  • Displayed sound judgment under pressure when making critical decisions that impact public safety during emergency situations.
  • Utilized excellent communication skills when interacting with diverse populations, fostering trust between law enforcement and the community members they serve.
  • Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
  • Enhanced public safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.
  • Patrolled assigned areas to check homes, businesses, and public roads for signs of disturbance.

Deputy Sheriff

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
10.2018 - 07.2020
  • Testified effectively in court, presenting clear evidence that contributed to successful case outcomes.
  • Demonstrated leadership ability within department ranks by mentoring junior deputies and serving as a reliable source of support for colleagues.
  • Enhanced public trust by providing professional and compassionate assistance during emergencies.
  • Provided security at various community events, ensuring a safe environment for attendees.
  • Patrolled designated areas in patrol vehicle and on foot to identify security and safety issues.
  • Improved community safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.

Public Works Maintenance Worker

City Of El Paso
05.2018 - 10.2018
  • Increased equipment lifespan with regular inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and repair work as needed for optimal performance.
  • Upheld strict safety standards both individually and within the team by adhering to established protocols during the execution of job duties.
  • Streamlined work processes by maintaining accurate records of completed tasks and future needs.
  • Enhanced public trust in city services through the consistent delivery of high-quality maintenance work on public infrastructure elements.
  • Improved overall city aesthetics by cleaning graffiti, power washing surfaces, and painting when necessary.
  • Supported special events setup and teardown to facilitate smooth operations for various community gatherings.
  • Ensured accessibility for all citizens through the upkeep of ramps, handrails, and other essential features in public areas.

Infantryman

United States Marine Corps
06.2014 - 05.2018
  • Communicated effectively with superiors and subordinates alike, facilitating smooth execution of orders during high-stress situations.
  • Developed soldier skills by providing guidance on marksmanship, physical fitness, and tactical maneuvers.
  • Maintained strict discipline within the ranks enforcing adherence to military standards and regulations.
  • Performed as fire team member during situational training exercises and infantry dismounted battle drills.
  • Trained in use of tear gas, passive ordnance, and explosives.
  • Led fire team during infantry dismounted battle drills and situational training exercises.
  • Employed various weapons systems proficiently in both offensive and defensive engagements.
  • Increased mission success rate through thorough planning and coordination with other units.
  • Trained over multinational partners, contractors and foreign nationals to develop warfighting and defense capabilities.
  • Led a squad of infantrymen in various combat situations, achieving objectives while minimizing losses.

Education

High School Diploma -

El Paso-Gridley
El Paso, IL
05-2014

Skills

  • Interview techniques
  • Team leadership skills
  • Information gathering
  • Collecting evidence
  • Conducting investigations
  • Interviewing skills
  • Defensive driving
  • Physical fitness
  • Advanced marksmanship
  • Tactical planning
  • Intelligence gathering
  • Close quarters combat
  • Breaching techniques
  • Hostage rescue
  • Surveillance operations
  • Ballistic shield deployment
  • High-risk warrant service
  • Covert entry

Accomplishments

Was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, based off of actions during a combat deployment to Iraq.


Awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Citation for actions in Iraq.


Appointed to Field Training Officer to train new Sheriff's Deputies


Awarded the Meritorious Service Citation three times for actions as a Sheriff's Deputy.


Awarded the Life Saving Award for saving an entrapped person from a house fire.


Awarded a Certificate of Recognition for the apprehension of a multitude of sexual predators as member of a cyber crimes task force

Timeline

Detective

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
12.2024 - Current

SWAT Operator

Central Illinois Emergency Response Team
06.2022 - Current

Deputy Sheriff

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
12.2021 - Current

Security Consultant

Rivian Automotive Inc.
07.2021 - 12.2021

Deputy Sheriff

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
02.2021 - 07.2021

Police Officer

El Paso Police Department
07.2020 - 02.2021

Deputy Sheriff

Woodford County Sheriff's Office
10.2018 - 07.2020

Public Works Maintenance Worker

City Of El Paso
05.2018 - 10.2018

Infantryman

United States Marine Corps
06.2014 - 05.2018

High School Diploma -

El Paso-Gridley
Cole Mekley