Steve Ijames began his law enforcement career in 1978 in his hometown of Poplar Bluff, Missouri. In 1982, he joined the Springfield, Missouri, Police Department, where he distinguished himself as a leader and innovator, rising through the ranks from Corporal in 1988 to Major in 1998. Along the way, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, a Master’s degree, and graduated from the FBI National Academy, Class 186.

As a newly promoted Sergeant in 1990, Steve was tasked with creating the Springfield Police Department’s first full-time tactical team. Recognizing a critical gap in force options available to officers, he championed the adoption of pepper spray, less-lethal impact munitions, conducted energy weapons, and patrol rifles, helping modernize the department’s response capabilities and enhance officer safety.

Steve’s expertise quickly earned national and international recognition. He was an original member of the National Tactical Officers Association Board of Directors, served for 20 years on the International Association of Chiefs of Police National Law Enforcement Policy Center, and contributed to the Boston Marathon Bombing Post-Blast Commission. He has instructed and spoken in 33 countries and authored approximately 100 articles on use of force, tactical operations, and law enforcement equipment.

As an expert witness, Steve has reviewed more than 2,500 civil and criminal cases, including some of the most high-profile incidents in modern policing. His work has consistently supported officers and agencies through objective analysis and professional expertise.

Beyond law enforcement, Steve has led more than 40 mission teams to Nicaragua, helping build thousands of homes for families in need, and has supported humanitarian efforts that provided medical care, dental services, and daily meals for children in Haiti.

Steve has also served as Interim Chief of Police for the cities of Ozark and Republic, Missouri, and currently holds Reserve Deputy commissions with Greene and Stone Counties.

Through his leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to service, Steve has made a profound and lasting impact on the tactical profession and the law enforcement community. His contributions continue to influence and inspire generations of officers across the nation and around the world.