
Clay Abbott
W. Clay Abbott is the DWI Resource Prosecutor (TSRP) with the Texas District and County Attorneys Association. He graduated from Lubbock Christian University in 1984 with a BA in History, magna cum laude. He graduated from the Texas Tech School of Law in 1986 with a JD, cum laude. He was inducted into the Order of the Coif in 1987. From 1987 until 1990 Clay was with the Lubbock County Criminal District Attorney’s Office, where he left as the Trial Chief of the 140th District Court. He was in solo practice in Lubbock until 1995 when he rejoined the Lubbock CDA as Chief Deputy. Clay served as an adjunct professor at the Texas Tech School of Law from 1990-1999. In 2000 he became general counsel at the Texas Municipal Court’s Education Center. He left judicial education to join TDCAA in 2004. He has trained thousands of Texas Peace Officers and Prosecutors each year in that job. Clay has trained on DWI and Ethics topics at the National Advocacy College and for NDAA. He has also trained prosecutors in DWI, prosecutor ethics, or at Train-the-Trainers in 36 of the 50 states.
Program Description: Plea Bargains: Myths and Realities
This session is a walk-through of the laws, logistics, and practical strategies used by prosecutors in plea bargaining DWI cases. While this course will include legal information it is designed for non-lawyers to create a greater understanding of the prosecution and adjudication of impaired driving cases There are hundreds of DWI jury trials each year, yet 95% of cases are resolved by pre-trial Intervention or a plea. Please come to this session to hear why this is the case and how the plea-bargaining process works.

Christine Adams
Christine Adams is an Assistant Research Scientist at the Center for Alcohol and Drug Education Studies (CADES) at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. Ms. Adams received her Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of North Texas and her Master of Business Administration from the University of Nevada, Reno. Her knowledge and 18 years of experience includes impaired driving abatement, prevention of underage access to alcohol, server/seller compliance, building community partnerships, public education campaigns, effective marijuana policy strategies, and victim services. Currently, Ms. Adams is the Primary Investigator for the Texas Impaired Driving Task Force and the 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Program in partnership with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). She is also Co-Principal Investigator on the TxDOT Essential Education on Marijuana project. Prior to joining CADES, Ms. Adams served as the Vice Chairperson for the Northern Nevada DUI Task Force, where she was presented with the State Impaired Driving Safety Award for her work on the Nevada Strategic Highway Safety Plan and her advocacy at the Nevada legislature.
Program Description: 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Program
Presented by Caitlin Ossain, Lancaster County, NE Community Corrections
Moderated by Christine Adams and Cinthya Fillips, Texas A&M Transportation Institute
This session will explore how the evidence-based 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Program can effectively disrupt the cycle of addiction and recidivism. This supervision strategy increases public safety while allowing participants to remain in the community. Caitlin Ossain, a pretrial case manager from Lancaster County, NE, will share insights on the strengths of this program, how important it is to build a relationship with Judges and legal parties for your 24/7 program, and how 24/7 can provide crucial structure and support for individuals working to overcome substance use challenges within the criminal justice system.
Additionally, Christine Adams and Cinthya Fillips from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute will discuss how they are supporting Texas communities in implementing and sustaining this impactful program. Learn how you can introduce 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring in your own community, with guidance from experts providing technical assistance to jurisdictions statewide. This program is highly recommended by the NHTSA’s Countermeasures That Work as an effective strategy for reducing impaired driving and recidivism.

Corporal Aaron Botts
Corporal Aaron Botts, currently serving in the Denver Police Department’s DUI/DRE Enforcement Unit, has extensive law enforcement experience beginning in 2008. Specializing in impaired driving enforcement, he has progressed through key roles; from patrol officer to SWAT team operator, and now as a certified Drug Recognition Expert and Instructor. Since his promotion to Corporal in 2022, Aaron has led DUI enforcement training programs at both the Denver Police Academy and the Red Rocks Community College Law Enforcement Academy. He has presented at conferences and state-level trainings nationwide, sharing his insights and strategies on effective impaired driving enforcement. Aaron also serves as an adjunct professor at the Community College of Denver Criminal Justice Program, demonstrating his dedication to educating the next generation of law enforcement professionals. Outside of his professional roles, Aaron is actively involved in his community as a Cub Master and Assistant Scoutmaster in the Scouting America program, and as a youth baseball coach, emphasizing his commitment to youth development and leadership.
Program Description: Detecting the Impaired Driver in 60 Seconds
This session provides law enforcement officers with field-tested techniques to quickly identify impaired drivers during face-to-face interactions. Using actual Body Cam footage and drawing from over 15 years of experience and 7 years of data analysis, this presentation offers advanced questioning strategies and observational methods to efficiently detect impairment from alcohol and drugs.

Carlos Champion
Before becoming Texas DRE State Coordinator, Carlos was a twenty-four year veteran with the Edinburg Police Department, retiring honorably at the rank of lieutenant and taking a position with the Texas LEADRS Program. At Edinburg PD, he was assigned to the Training Division where he served as the agency’s training coordinator and field training program commander. Carlos was the Department’s principal instructor for Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, DWI investigation and report writing, mobile video, and radar speed measurement. He coordinated and supervised DWI STEP operations for the department. He was also the department’s DRE Agency Coordinator.
Carlos became a Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) Instructor in 2001 and was the lead SFST instructor for the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council Regional Police Academies in Edinburg, Harlingen, Mission, and Hidalgo and instructed at various other academies and departments across south Texas. He also taught extensive SFST Refresher courses throughout the state. In addition to his SFST Instructor experience, he is a Drug Recognition Expert Instructor and Course Manager and Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) instructor. He has taught thousands of officers in impaired driving enforcement topic and qualified as an expert witness in Hidalgo County courts. He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and an IACP DRE Section member as well.
Program Description: Bridge That Gap-Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement Training in Support of Drug Recognition Experts
The Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement course, or ARIDE as it is popularly known, is a 16 hour course designed to train officers observe, identify, and articulate signs of impairment related to drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both. It was first introduced in 2007 to address the growing trend of drug impaired driving across the United States. The course provides attendees with an overview of the seven drug categories, how drugs work in the human body, and a new battery of assessments in addition to the SFSTs to help the officer at roadside in impaired driving investigations. This session will discuss the relationship between SFST and ARIDE and the latter’s proven results in identifying drug impaired drivers. We will also discuss the role of the ARIDE trained officer in support of the Drug Recognition Expert, and how both can assist the SFST trained officer in impaired driving investigations.

Sergeant Salvador Corral
Sgt. Salvador Corral is a 16 year veteran of the Houston Police Department, and has a total of 24 years Police experience which began in 1999 for the Milan Police Department in Milan New Mexico. He is currently the DWI /DRE Harris County District Attorney office Traffic Safety Liaison Segreant where he is responsible for all DWI/DRE related training and education for the department and the district attorney’s office. Sgt. Salvador Corral has spent most of his career specializing in DWI related crimes, from first offense DWI to Felony Murder and has made over 3000 DWI related arrests including investigations, and has conducted over 300 DRE evaluations involving DRE evaluations in first offense DWI Intoxication manslaughter, and Felony Murder.
Sgt. Salvador Corral works with the District attorney’s office to successfully investigate and prosecute traffic related crimes involving deaths and has been involved in over 300 vehicle death investigations.
Program Description: Bridge That Gap-Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement Training in Support of Drug Recognition Experts
The Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement course, or ARIDE as it is popularly known, is a 16 hour course designed to train officers observe, identify, and articulate signs of impairment related to drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both. It was first introduced in 2007 to address the growing trend of drug impaired driving across the United States. The course provides attendees with an overview of the seven drug categories, how drugs work in the human body, and a new battery of assessments in addition to the SFSTs to help the officer at roadside in impaired driving investigations. This session will discuss the relationship between SFST and ARIDE and the latter’s proven results in identifying drug impaired drivers. We will also discuss the role of the ARIDE trained officer in support of the Drug Recognition Expert, and how both can assist the SFST trained officer in impaired driving investigations.

Cinthya Fillips
Cinthya Fillips is a dedicated leader and researcher at the intersection of traffic safety, public health, and criminal justice. As Director of the Center for Alcohol and Drug Education Studies (CADES) at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), she spearheads initiatives aimed at reducing impaired driving and fostering long-term behavioral change among justice-involved individuals.
With expertise in traffic safety, criminal desistance, behavioral health, and evidence-based interventions, Cinthya develops and implements programs to enhance the effectiveness of justice professionals in addressing mental health and substance use disorders. Her work includes creating specialized curricula for jailers, judges, prosecutors, and community supervision stakeholders, equipping them with the tools to improve screening, assessment, and referral practices for individuals with DWI offenses.
She currently serves as Co-Principal Investigator on the 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Project and has led extensive training efforts to promote mental health literacy within the criminal justice system. Cinthya holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Public Administration from Texas A&M University, as well as a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A), she integrates clinical insight with policy-driven research to drive impactful change in the traffic safety community and institutional settings.
Program Description: 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Program
Presented by Caitlin Ossain, Lancaster County, NE Community Corrections
Moderated by Christine Adams and Cinthya Fillips, Texas A&M Transportation Institute
This session will explore how the evidence-based 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Program can effectively disrupt the cycle of addiction and recidivism. This supervision strategy increases public safety while allowing participants to remain in the community. Caitlin Ossain, a pretrial case manager from Lancaster County, NE, will share insights on the strengths of this program, how important it is to build a relationship with Judges and legal parties for your 24/7 program, and how 24/7 can provide crucial structure and support for individuals working to overcome substance use challenges within the criminal justice system.
Additionally, Christine Adams and Cinthya Fillips from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute will discuss how they are supporting Texas communities in implementing and sustaining this impactful program. Learn how you can introduce 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring in your own community, with guidance from experts providing technical assistance to jurisdictions statewide. This program is highly recommended by the NHTSA’s Countermeasures That Work as an effective strategy for reducing impaired driving and recidivism.

Rev. Heather Gates
Rev. Heather Gates, LMSW, has served as the Lead Chaplain for the Galveston Police Department since September 2018. She is also a senior credentialed chaplain with the International Conference of Police Chaplains (ICPC). Prior to her chaplaincy, Heather worked in student ministry within the United Methodist Church, a background that uniquely prepared her to support law enforcement officers.
Heather holds a Master of Theological Studies degree from Perkins School of Theology (2013) and was ordained as a Deacon in the United Methodist Church in 2017. Her journey into law enforcement chaplaincy came unexpectedly while working with students at the church, ultimately leading to a rewarding new path.
To further equip herself for her role, Heather pursued a Master of Social Work, graduating from Tulane University in 2023 and earning her licensure in May 2024. In addition to her chaplaincy work, she is an active member of the Critical Incident Stress Management Team and contributes to events organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Program Description: First Responders’ Mental Health Needs (Panel Discussion)
Mental health care for first responders has never been more critical as these dedicated professionals face increasing demands and unique challenges in their roles. This session will feature a panel of experts specializing in providing mental health support to first responders, offering essential insights and actionable strategies to support their well-being.
Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the mental health challenges faced by first responders, including trauma, PTSD, burnout, and emotional fatigue. The session will also explore practical approaches to intervention, prevention, and resilience-building tailored specifically to the needs of this population.
Join us to learn about available resources, best practices, and innovative solutions that can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who selflessly serve our communities every day.
Brian Grubbs, Program Manager, Law Enforcement Advanced DWI/DUI Reporting System (LEADRS)
Brian Grubbs has been a law enforcement professional since 1998, with over 25 years of experience, including 10 years as a patrol supervisor. Holding a Master TCOLE certification, he specializes in impaired driving investigations.
As the Program Manager for LEADRS, Grubbs has helped advance DWI data reporting and enforcement tools. He has contributed to numerous studies on alcohol and drug impairment, participating as an instructor and observer in controlled dosing studies, with results supported by breath/blood alcohol tests and toxicology reports.
Grubbs has trained over 3,500 law enforcement officers on DWI investigations, SFSTs, report writing, courtroom testimony, and defense strategies. His expertise also includes serving as a certified Drug Recognition Expert.

Anna Heil
Anna Heil proudly serves as the Managing Director of the American Warrior Association and leads the R3 Program team with a steadfast commitment to fostering impactful and sustainable change within the community. As a trained level-one Biblical Counselor and a graduate of the Shay Moral Injury Institute’s Moral Injury Care certificate program, Anna brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to her work.
In her role, Anna partners closely with departments to advocate for their wellness goals, ensuring they have the necessary support to succeed. She also develops and delivers resilience training programs tailored to the unique needs of first responders, equipping them with tools to navigate the challenges of their high-stress roles.
A passionate innovator, Anna excels at cultivating strategic relationships with individuals and organizations, continually expanding support and raising program visibility. Her excellent communication skills and creative spirit are essential in building lasting relationships and achieving the mission of the R3 program to support first responders and their families.
Program Description: First Responders’ Mental Health Needs (Panel Discussion)
Mental health care for first responders has never been more critical as these dedicated professionals face increasing demands and unique challenges in their roles. This session will feature a panel of experts specializing in providing mental health support to first responders, offering essential insights and actionable strategies to support their well-being.
Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the mental health challenges faced by first responders, including trauma, PTSD, burnout, and emotional fatigue. The session will also explore practical approaches to intervention, prevention, and resilience-building tailored specifically to the needs of this population.
Join us to learn about available resources, best practices, and innovative solutions that can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who selflessly serve our communities every day.
Sergeant Ryan Huling
After graduating from Texas A&M University, Ryan Huling has been with the Austin Police Department for over 22 years. In his current position as the Sergeant of the Impaired Driving Investigations Unit at APD – he supervises three full-time detectives and oversees the DWI enforcement responsibilities of over 20 DRE officers. In 2023, four of the DREs began their certifications as Qualified Technicians in order to supplement the No Refusal and blood draw programs. APD recently went to a “No Refusal 365” program whereby a DWI expert will obtain a blood search warrant upon refusal on each and every nighttime arrest. APD now has 13 QTs that perform evidentiary blood draws on a regular basis.
Program Description: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy (Panel Discussion)
A law enforcement phlebotomy program is an effective strategy to combat the time and costs associated with blood draws on drivers suspected of driving under the influence. During this panel discussion you will hear different stakeholders describe how to implement and sustain a successful police phlebotomy program. The panel will also address potential barriers, such as liability concerns and public perception, and how to overcome them. Panel members include Sheriff Waybourn, Tarrant County, Sergeant Ryan Huling, Austin Police Department, and Taylor Vanegas, Chief Prosecutor, Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office.

Joseph O. Jones, Ph.D.
System Director
North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory
Dr. Jones has dedicated his career to forensic science since 2006, currently serving as System Director at the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory. In this role, he manages the operations of two forensic laboratories and an evidence hub, serving the northern 29 parishes of Louisiana. As an experienced forensic toxicologist, he plays a pivotal role in supporting law enforcement and legal professionals in cases of impaired driving by providing expert toxicological interpretation.
Dr. Jones earned his Ph.D. in Forensic Sciences from Oklahoma State University’s Center for Health Sciences, specializing in forensic toxicology and impaired driving policy. He holds a Master of Science in Forensic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, obtained in 2007, and a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science from Baylor University, completed in 2004.
He is a member of several esteemed organizations, including the National Safety Council’s Alcohol and Drug Impaired Driving division (NSC-ADID), the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT), and the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD). His commitment extends to his roles on the Louisiana Governor’s Drug Policy Board and his support of the DWI Taskforce in Louisiana, where he focuses on education and enhancing public safety.
Program Description: Toxicology and Drug-Impaired Driving
This engaging breakout session offers participants a comprehensive understanding of the pivotal role toxicology plays in cases of drug-impaired driving (DUID). The session will cover the processes behind detecting and measuring drugs in biological specimens, as well as interpreting toxicological findings within a legal framework.
A special emphasis will be placed on Hemp-Derived Cannabis, with a focus on Delta-8-THC and related compounds. Participants will delve into the pharmacological effects of these emerging substances, their widespread prevalence in consumer products, and the unique legal and scientific challenges they present in DUID cases. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable insights into addressing these evolving drug trends in forensic toxicology and the legal context.
This session is ideal for forensic toxicologists, law enforcement officers, attorneys, and policymakers seeking to stay at the forefront of drug-impaired driving issues and their impact on public safety.

Jim Markham
Jim Markham is the Director of the Crash Data and Analysis Section in the Traffic Safety Division of the Texas Department of Transportation, a position he has held since September 2022. Jim is a retired Army Major, having served more than 20 years in the Army and Air Force as a Military Intelligence officer and Operations Research Systems Analyst. He holds a BS in Mathematics from the University of Kentucky and a MS in Operations Research from the Air Force Institute of Technology.
Program Description: Impaired Driving Data
This session will provide an overview of ongoing efforts to develop and implement a Texas Impaired Driving Database, aimed at enhancing data collection and analysis for improved roadway safety. Jim Markham will highlight the capabilities of AASHTOWare Safety software, a powerful tool available to state and local governments, as well as law enforcement, to help identify and address traffic safety challenges within their communities.

Jose Marrero
Born in Cuba, reared in Mexico City, and a Texan for more than 30 years, José has a diverse background that gives him a strong understanding of Hispanic markets across the state. He wears many hats at Sherry Matthews Group, including conducting strategic research for government and nonprofit clients. His portfolio includes creative concepting, copywriting, and execution of original creative materials for print, radio, and television in both English and Spanish.
José has an award-winning track record and has been responsible for the development of Hispanic marketing and outreach strategies for TxDOT’s Click It or Ticket; Talk. Text. Crash.; Be Safe. Drive Smart.; and the world-famous Jacqui DWI-prevention campaign now called Drive Sober. No Regrets., among many others.
Program Description: Public Information and Marketing Messages
Qualitative and quantitative research play crucial roles in developing effective campaign messages. Qualitative research provides in-depth insights into audience attitudes, beliefs, and motivations, allowing campaign designers to craft messages that resonate on a personal level. While quantitative research offers measurable data that can validate assumptions and track the effectiveness of communication strategies.
In this session, you’ll learn how research informs traffic safety campaigns and watch sample campaign videos that illustrate how research leads to compelling public awareness messaging.

Lisa Minjares-Kyle, M.S., MCHES
Lisa Minjares-Kyle, M.S., MCHES, is the Program Manager of the Youth Transportation Safety Program at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI). She brings with her over 15 years of experience in the traffic safety field. She oversees the YTS program’s program team, projects, and mission. Her areas of interest and experience include the application of health prevention frameworks, Safe System Approach, Traffic Safety Culture, and Road Safety Management across youth transportation safety topics. Her primary expertise includes research and analysis of transportation issues affecting young drivers, development of educational outreach materials, peer-to-peer outreach, and data analysis. She is a Certified Road Safety Professional 1 and is also a Certified Peer Program Educator. She obtained her bachelor’s and Master of Science degrees from Texas A&M University and completed her second master’s degree at Clemson University in Transportation Safety Administration.
Program Description: Addressing Impaired Driving with Health Prevention Frameworks
This workshop will focus on exploring prevention across the social ecological model and highlight related risk and protective factors surrounding the issue of impaired driving. In addition, the workshop will touch on valuable behavior change strategies (informed by the Theory of Planned Behavior) to help youth understand decision making surrounding impaired driving and tools for meaningful prevention beyond the old school mentality of “just say no.” Lastly, the workshop will highlight youth’s role in their community and provide information on the free peer-led youth traffic safety outreach program available for schools or community groups to affect real change within their communities.

Hello!
I’m Caitlin! I am a Pretrial Case Manager for Lancaster County Community Corrections. I graduated from Peru State College and have worked in the social-work field in Lincoln, Ne, for about ten years – which amazes me to say! I’d like to thank my accounting teacher from college- for failing me miserably and telling me I should look into jobs with ‘less math and more people skills,’ she was 100% right.
If you know me, then you know my two great passions are house-plants and helping people, I take both very seriously. I am lucky to be part of an amazing team that works hard to create positive change and provide services to those in need in my community.
Program Description: 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Program
Presented by Caitlin Ossain, Lancaster County, NE Community Corrections
Moderated by Christine Adams and Cinthya Fillips, Texas A&M Transportation Institute
This session will explore how the evidence-based 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring Program can effectively disrupt the cycle of addiction and recidivism. This supervision strategy increases public safety while allowing participants to remain in the community. Caitlin Ossain, a pretrial case manager from Lancaster County, NE, will share insights on the strengths of this program, how important it is to build a relationship with Judges and legal parties for your 24/7 program, and how 24/7 can provide crucial structure and support for individuals working to overcome substance use challenges within the criminal justice system.
Additionally, Christine Adams and Cinthya Fillips from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute will discuss how they are supporting Texas communities in implementing and sustaining this impactful program. Learn how you can introduce 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring in your own community, with guidance from experts providing technical assistance to jurisdictions statewide. This program is highly recommended by the NHTSA’s Countermeasures That Work as an effective strategy for reducing impaired driving and recidivism.

April Ramos
April joined the National Safety Council’s Our Driving Concern team in 2023. Her work focuses on training, exhibits and public outreach. Prior to joining the Our Driving Concern team, she spent 20 years at the Texas Department of State Health Services working in the Safe Riders Program. Earlier, she launched her career at the Austin/Travis County Public Health Department. She taught bicycle and pedestrian safety to children and provided car seat safety education to parents and caregivers. April is a graduate of Texas State University and native Texan.
Program Description: Employer Outreach for Impaired Driving Education
Impaired driving is a significant issue that can have devastating consequences, not just for the individual involved but also for employers, employees, and the broader community. When an employee is arrested for impaired driving—whether it happens on or off the job—it can lead to a cascade of negative outcomes. The impact of impaired driving on an employee’s personal life—such as the tragic scenario of hitting and killing someone—carries its own set of challenges. However, the burden does not fall solely on the individual. Employers are also affected through absenteeism, decreased morale, and potential legal or insurance repercussions.
To prevent these costs, employers can play a key role by creating a work culture that prioritizes safety and education about the risks of impairment. This session will discuss how fostering a culture of safety and responsibility, employers can reduce the risks associated with impaired driving, potentially saving lives and mitigating negative impacts on the workplace and broader community.

Rick Randall
Rick Randall is founder and CEO of the Randall Group 911. Before retiring in 2022, he served for 23 years as the Senior Chaplain and Health and Wellness Division Director for the Austin Police Department. Over the course of his time with APD, Rick instructed in the Front Line Leadership Training Course, New Supervisor and Field Training Officer programs and in such courses as Resiliency, Performance and Accountability, Ethics, Conflict Resolution, Surviving a Toxic Work Environment, Cultural Diversity, Suicide Prevention, and Police Legitimacy.
Rick has been active in promoting the wellbeing of officers and professional staff through such programs as heart disease detection and prevention, mindfulness and exercise strategies for stress reduction, and a ground-breaking research project involving the utilization of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as a preventive measure to address the trauma in law enforcement. That project was conducted in concert with Vanderbilt University and the LBJ School of Public Policy.
Rick holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He also holds a master’s degree in biblical theology from Abilene Christian University. He has a basic instructor certification with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and is certified as a QPR suicide prevention instructor, a Myers-Briggs facilitator, and an ADW certified facilitator. He is also certified in CISM certified and as a Dispute Resolution Specialist.
Rick currently works with the Texas Municipal League and the Texas Police Chiefs Association instructing First Responders in the areas of Resiliency, and Critical Incident Stress Management. To date, he has taught this material to more than 2700 first responders across the State of Texas.
Rick has been married for more than 53 years to his wife, Faye. They were blessed with two children and seven grandchildren.
Program Description: First Responders’ Mental Health Needs (Panel Discussion)
Mental health care for first responders has never been more critical as these dedicated professionals face increasing demands and unique challenges in their roles. This session will feature a panel of experts specializing in providing mental health support to first responders, offering essential insights and actionable strategies to support their well-being.
Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the mental health challenges faced by first responders, including trauma, PTSD, burnout, and emotional fatigue. The session will also explore practical approaches to intervention, prevention, and resilience-building tailored specifically to the needs of this population.
Join us to learn about available resources, best practices, and innovative solutions that can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who selflessly serve our communities every day.

Toni Rudisill, MS, PhD
Toni Marie Rudisill, MS, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the West Virginia University School of Public Health. Dr. Rudisill’s research focuses on the relationship between substance use (particularly cannabis use), transportation safety, and health policy. She often incorporates mixed methodology into her work as appropriate. Dr. Rudisill has published ~50 peer-reviewed manuscripts in reputable medical journals. Her research program has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center, and the American Thoracic Society. She currently teaches undergraduate and graduate level courses in population health, epidemiological concepts, study design, and research methodology.
Program Description: A Green Light? Cannabis Impaired Driving among Adolescents
In this session, we will briefly discuss cannabis and cannabinoid products and their physiological and psychological effects. We will also discuss the prevalence of cannabis impaired driving among adolescents and relevant risk factors. We will also discuss the challenges of reducing this behavior and some possible prevention and intervention strategies.

Brian Thomas Swift, BS, MA
Brian Thomas Swift was born and raised in Escanaba, in Upper Michigan. He attended Michigan State University and earned his undergraduate degree in psychology. He earned his MA degree in public administration from Northern Michigan University.
Brian has spent most of his career in politics, and has been based in Washington DC, Michigan, and Illinois. He served as a senior staffer for Congressman Robert W. Davis, and Director of Northern Michigan Operation’s for Governor John Engler. He has worked on many presidential, senate, and congressional campaigns. His expertise in politics is focused on community outreach, crisis management, economic development, and elections.
In the aftermath of the Iraq war, Brian worked in Baghdad for the Multi-National Force, Information Operations and Psychological Operations in 2005–2006. He worked with coalition partners to focus on media and strategic communications which culminated in the January 2005 Iraqi parliamentary elections. In June 2005, he collaborated with Australian officials to help win the release of kidnapped construction engineer, Douglass Wood. Brian was named Country Manager in 2006 and oversaw a team of Expats and Iraqi assets.
Upon his return from Iraq, Brian went to work for the American Medical Association in Chicago as a regional representative working on behalf of physicians from 15 states, including Texas. In 2010, he was named Executive Vice President and CEO of the Tarrant County Medical Society (TCMS). TCMS, part of the Texas Medical Association, is an advocacy organization that represents physicians and patients on important healthcare issues across the state and in Washington, DC. Brian is an avid golfer and shareholder of the Green Bay Packers.
Over the course of his career, Brian has been involved in a variety of community/state organizations and initiatives:
– Director, Global Economic Development, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
– Keweenaw National Historical Park Founding Member
– Governor’s Liaison to K.I Sawyer AFB, Base Realignment and Closure Commission
– March for Babies, Board of Directors
– TCU School of Medicine – Admissions Committee Member
– Project Access Tarrant County – Founding Team Member
– Public Act 242 and 243 of 2016, “Swift Check,” Michigan’s Oral Fluid Roadside Drug Testing Program
– Responsibility.org – The Kevin E. Quinlan Award – 2019
– National Alliance to Stop Impaired Driving – National Spokesman 2021-Present
Program Description: Pause for Purpose – Opening Plenary

Taylor Vanegas
Taylor Vanegas began his career with the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office in 2018. He is the Chief Prosecutor in the Vehicular Crimes Unit, where he supervises the investigation and prosecution of major vehicle crimes involving death and serious bodily injury, manages a TxDOT grant-funded No Refusal program, and leads the Montgomery County Vehicular Crimes Task Force. He has prosecuted cases ranging from misdemeanor DWI and drug possession to child sexual abuse, intoxication manslaughter, and murder.
Program Description: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy (Panel Discussion)
A law enforcement phlebotomy program is an effective strategy to combat the time and costs associated with blood draws on drivers suspected of driving under the influence. During this panel discussion you will hear different stakeholders describe how to implement and sustain a successful police phlebotomy program. The panel will also address potential barriers, such as liability concerns and public perception, and how to overcome them. Panel members include Sheriff Waybourn, Tarrant County, Sergeant Ryan Huling, Austin Police Department, and Taylor Vanegas, Chief Prosecutor, Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office.

Sherriff Bill Waybourn
Bill began his career in service when he joined the U.S. Air Force in 1978, serving in both the active duty and reserves. On April 30, 1981, after serving active duty, Bill began working for Dalworthington Gardens Police Department. Bill was promoted to Chief of Police on June 1, 1984; making him the youngest police chief in the state of Texas. Later, he united the city through combining the police and fire services making him the Chief of Public Safety.
In his 31 years as Chief of Dalworthington Gardens, he has testified on numerous cases as an expert witness, pioneered the Texas model for DWI “No Refusal” program—which has been credited with lowering the fatality and DWI rate and is now being used as the model for several surroundings states; testified before the state legislature on a diverse array of issues relating to the Second Amendment and civilians carrying firearms.
He worked with the state legislature on Texas’ original concealed handgun license laws in the 1990’s, as well as the most recent open carry law that passed in 2015. Bill is also extremely honored to have helped the Chris Kyle Bill become a law in Texas—a bill that streamlines the process for military service men and women to become police officers.
He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Degree in Conflict Resolution. Bill is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Texas A&M Police Academy, and is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. During Bill’s first term as Sheriff, he has created a Human Trafficking Unit, a Department of Intelligence, aggressive inmate service programs, several less than lethal programs, and numerous other training initiatives. Both Intelligence and Human Trafficking have gained state and national prominence by being on the tip of the spear. Bill often is speaking publicly about various topics to: churches, civic organizations, colleges, and police related events.
Bill is married to Laura Waybourn and together have ten children, eight of which have been adopted. Bill and Laura are zealous and passionate advocates for the fatherless.
Program Description: Law Enforcement Phlebotomy (Panel Discussion)
A law enforcement phlebotomy program is an effective strategy to combat the time and costs associated with blood draws on drivers suspected of driving under the influence. During this panel discussion you will hear different stakeholders describe how to implement and sustain a successful police phlebotomy program. The panel will also address potential barriers, such as liability concerns and public perception, and how to overcome them. Panel members include Sheriff Waybourn, Tarrant County, Sergeant Ryan Huling, Austin Police Department, and Taylor Vanegas, Chief Prosecutor, Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office.