About Sheriff Ray Nash, ret.
Sheriff Ray Nash is a distinguished law enforcement professional renowned for his innovative contributions to leadership development within the policing community. With a career spanning over 40 years, Sheriff Nash has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering excellence, integrity, and accountability within the ranks of law enforcement agencies.
Early Life and Education:
Born and raised in Columbia, SC, Sheriff Nash's journey into law enforcement was inspired by a deep-seated sense of duty and a passion for public service. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Education, Training, and Development from Southern Illinois University and his Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University.
Law Enforcement Career:
Sheriff Nash's illustrious career includes over four decades of service in various capacities within law enforcement. He began as a police dispatcher while still in high school then joined the Irmo, SC Police Department while he was in college. He swiftly progressed through the ranks and was appointed Police Chief at the tender age of 23, making him one of the youngest chiefs in the country. After a tenure as a Training Specialist with the Institute of Police Technology and Management (I.P.T.M.) at the University of North Florida, Sheriff Nash returned to his native state for a second term as Police Chief, this time in Summerville, SC.
In 1997, Sheriff Nash embarked on the first of his three terms as the elected Sheriff in Dorchester County, S.C. His leadership during this period was marked by a commitment to community safety and innovation in policing strategies that captured international attention.
After his retirement in 2009, Sheriff Nash embarked on a 3-year international police reform mission in Afghanistan. He first served as the professional mentor to the Chief of Training and Education of the Afghan National Police. Then, he continued to contribute to international law enforcement reform efforts as the Criminal Justice Adviser to the US Embassy in Kabul and Professional Development Director for the International Police Coordination Board Secretariat.
Other positions he has held include Vice-president (Training and Development) for the International Academy of Public Safety, Commissioner for the National Command and Staff College, Director of the Sheriff’s Institute for Credible Leadership Development (National Sheriff’s Association), and adjunct criminal justice faculty at Charleston Southern University. Currently he serves as Director and CEO of the Police Dynamics Institute, Director of the Police Dynamics Training Center and Institute of Police Polygraphy, and President and Chief Investigator of Focal Point Investigations.
Creator of Police Dynamics:
A visionary leader, Sheriff Nash is the creative force behind Police Dynamics, an innovative leadership training program designed to equip law enforcement professionals with the skills and mindset necessary for effective and ethical policing. Recognizing the evolving challenges faced by modern law enforcement, Sheriff Nash developed Police Dynamics as a comprehensive framework that emphasizes principles such as ethical decision-making, community collaboration, and personal accountability. He has presented the program to over 20,000 law enforcement, military, and government leaders throughout the US and abroad.
Expert Witness:
Sheriff Nash has been court qualified as an expert witness, in both state and federal courts, in the areas of police training and procedures, use of force, evidence collection and preservation, and Sheriff's Office operations. In addition, he has provided expert analysis on dozens of cases involving allegations of police misconduct or use of force.
Legacy and Continuing Influence:
As Sheriff Nash continues to leave an indelible mark on the field of law enforcement, his legacy is felt through the countless officers and leaders who have benefited from the Police Dynamics program. His dedication to cultivating a new generation of ethical and effective law enforcement professionals ensures a lasting positive impact on communities served by law enforcement agencies.
Sheriff Ray Nash stands as a beacon of leadership, embodying the principles of integrity, accountability, and community-oriented policing. His commitment to excellence has not only shaped the course of his own career but has also left an enduring imprint on the landscape of law enforcement leadership.
Download Sheriff Nash's full CV.