Officer DeAris V. Hoard exemplifies the fusion of academic excellence and operational leadership. As a member of the Louisville Metro Police Department’s (LMPD) new Research and Strategic Advancement Unit, where he serves as a coordinator, Officer Hoard has pioneered research-driven initiatives that are reshaping how police agencies train, evaluate, and support their officers. Holding both a master’s degree and a PhD in criminal justice, he brings a rare blend of field experience and scholarly insight to his role and has been instrumental in bridging the gap between research and operations. He has led program evaluations and departmental surveys, developed evidence-based training curricula, and collaborated with the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center to assess national training programs. His work ensures that LMPD’s strategic goals are not only understood but implemented with purpose. 

Officer Hoard’s most impactful initiative may be the Cops in College program, which he designed and launched to help officers earn 75 percent of an associate degree through academy training, with a seamless path to a bachelor’s degree. This groundbreaking effort supports officer development and departmental retention. A former field training officer, Officer Hoard is also known for his mentorship, regularly guiding peers on academic and career advancement.  

Officer Hoard has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration across teams and cultivating a culture of mutual respect and teamwork. His leadership has helped build a culture of intentionality, empathy, and continuous improvement within the department. 

“I am determined to be part of the solution rather than simply reacting to problems present in the community.”