Draft:Deputy Royce James
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Comment: This also reads like it was written by a PR company, so the tone will have to be adjusted as well. HickoryOughtShirt?4 (talk) 21:57, 15 May 2025 (UTC)
Deputy Royce James (born May of 1977) is a law enforcement officer with the Volusia County Sheriff's Office in central Florida. He is known for his work as a patrol deputy and for his appearance on the TV show On Patrol: Live (formerly Live PD)[1]. In 2021, he was named Florida Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for his exceptional service, including his heroic actions in rescuing a missing 13-year-old girl.[2]
Early Life and Education
[edit]Deputy James is a native of Daytona Beach, Florida. He spent his early years in the challenging environment of Daytona's inner city ("the ghettos")[3]. Before pursuing a career in law enforcement, he worked as a financial advisor, where he served high-net-worth individuals. However, James grew frustrated by the lack of engagement from his clients and decided to pursue a new career path. Inspired by a chance encounter with law enforcement officers while working in a Tampa skyscraper, James began ride-alongs with local agencies, which led him to a career in law enforcement.
After resigning from his financial advising career, he moved back into his mother’s apartment, took on a minimum-wage job, and enrolled in the police academy. This career transition was challenging, but his determination and grit paid off, ultimately leading to his successful career with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Career
[edit]James joined the Ormond Beach Police Department in 2012 before moving to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office in 2016. Currently, he is assigned to District 2 patrol and serves as a training deputy. Additionally, he is a firearms instructor, a defensive tactics instructor, and a member of both the Volusia Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Team and the awards committee.
In early 2020, James appeared on the TV series On Patrol: Live (formerly Live PD), showcasing his work in the field. His work on the show brought national attention to his professional skills and dedication to public service.
Notable Incidents
[edit]One of James' most notable contributions to law enforcement was his role in rescuing a 13-year-old girl who had gone missing after school on February 19, 2021. The girl had met a 22-year-old man, Tyler Thompson, online, and had been lured to a motel in Edgewater, Florida. James tracked down the girl after investigating security footage and visiting multiple motels. Upon finding her at the All Suite Motel, the girl ran into James' arms, thanking him for rescuing her. Thompson was arrested on charges including interference with child custody and luring a child online, and additional charges were pending. James' quick thinking and tireless investigation led to widespread praise, and he was subsequently named Florida Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.
Deputy Royce James Day
[edit]Following this heroic rescue, the Volusia County Council honored James with a proclamation declaring March 15, 2021, as Deputy Royce James Day in recognition of his service.
Awards and Recognition
[edit]In addition to the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award, James' actions were celebrated in multiple ways. His rescue of the 13-year-old girl brought him public attention, and his professionalism was praised by both his peers and the community. James was also featured on Reelz and Peacock’s On Patrol: Live, a television series that follows law enforcement officers in action, further highlighting his work.
Personal Life
[edit]James is deeply passionate about his work, describing the unpredictable nature of law enforcement as one of the things he enjoys most about his job. He said, “Every day’s different. I like the variety. I have the ability to touch people’s lives in a more tangible way. That makes me feel good.” Despite his success, he remains grounded and committed to public service, acknowledging the struggles he faced during his career change.
His resilience and determination serve as a testament to the impact that law enforcement can have on a community.