Ball State University is grateful to Jim Duckham for nine years of service as the Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police. Jim Duckham joined the University Police Department after a career in law enforcement and public safety at SUNY Purchase, New York City, the town of Greenburgh, White Plains, New York and SUNY Dutchess Community College. Chief Duckham is a graduate of the Pace University School of Law and admitted to the practice of law in New York and Connecticut.
In his role, Chief Duckham led the University Police Department and Parking Services. Chief Duckham’s legacy includes modernizing and professionalizing a well-trained University Police Department focused on community policing. The impact of his leadership will be seen and felt on our campus for years to come.
Join us for a retirement reception to celebrate and honor Chief Duckham from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 25, 2023 in the L.A. Pittenger Student Center Terrace Lounge (second floor).
We wish Chief Duckham the best in his retirement as he transitions to civilian life after more than 30 years in law enforcement.
Effective, August 31, 2023, Al Williams, Associate Director of Public Safety and Assistant Chief of Police will serve as the Interim Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police.
Al Williams has served as the Assistant Chief of Police at Ball State University since March of 2015. Reporting directly to the Chief of Police, he is responsible for the daily functions within the Uniform, Records and Training Divisions, along with the overall supervision of the Criminal Investigations Division.
Previously, Al served with the Muncie Police Department for 25 years, working his way up from patrol officer to the rank of Captain and Patrol Division Commander. With close to 35 years of law enforcement experience in various positions, Al investigated and supervised over 800 violent and drug related crimes, as well as implemented a cold case initiative that solved several past serial sexual assault cases and homicides. Al also served on the Crisis/Hostage Team as Commander and member for 13 years, serving as lead for several large-scale events including major crime scenes and hostage/crisis situations.
Al is a graduate of Ball State University and the Northwestern University School of Police, Staff, and Command, along with several other law enforcement training courses. We are fortunate to have an experienced law enforcement leader of Al Williams caliber to serve in an interim capacity.
The search process for the next permanent Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police will begin immediately.