Meet Steve

Hello, my name is Steve and I attended Ball State University from 2001 – 2006 and earned my bachelor’s of science in Sociology and Criminal Justice. I returned to Ball State in 2007 to begin my master’s program and graduated in 2009. While working on my master’s degree, I worked as a graduate assistant in the sociology department.

Tell us about your current job. Day-to-day? Any long-term projects?

June 2014 to present, I have been employed as a prosecutor for Delaware County, Indiana. I charge and handle felonies in Delaware County situated in Circuit Court 1. I also review and respond to all requests for expungement of criminal records in Delaware County. Additionally, I handle proceedings under Indiana’s red flag law, which removes firearms from dangerous and mentally unsound individuals.

Through my profession, I have learned to view success and failure as opportunities to grow.

Describe your career path. How did you get where you are?

After I got my undergrad from Ball State University, I attended law school in 2010 at Ohio Northern University, located in Ada, OH. I graduated in 2013, took the bar exam, and the MPRE, and was licensed in the State of Indiana in October 2013. I worked in my legal practice prior to being hired as a prosecutor.

How have you grown and learned in the successive roles that lead you to your current position?

Through my profession, I have learned to view success and failure as opportunities to grow. On either occasion, I always try to take time to reflect on the experience hoping to come back better next time.

What is the most fulling part of your job?

The most fulfilling part of my job is working with the victims of crimes. Many of these individuals have experienced serious trauma and need a lot of individualized attention. As our case progresses, I keep them informed of the process and advocate for their rights.

What are the most valuable skills you learned as a Ball State College of Sciences and Humanities student? How have they helped you?

Researching and critical writing are the most valuable skills I learned as a BSU student. Nearly every aspect of my job requires effective, cogent, and cohesive written communication with the many parties to the case. Researching helps me develop evidence for trial, as well as keeps me abreast of the law.

Were there any professors, classes, or professional opportunities that had particularly significant impacts on you?

In my senior year as an undergraduate, I participated in an internship with the local probation department. In this internship, I was exposed to passionate pleadings that occur in the courtroom. This experience solidified my desire to become a litigator.

The best advice I can give is to those who hope to follow in my career path is to read, read, read. 

What advice do you have for current or future Criminal Justice or Sociology students who may hope to follow your career path?

The best advice I can give for those who hope to follow my career path is to read, read, read. I cannot express how important reading is for my profession. Not only for comprehension but also to encourage a deeper understanding of language. Reading develops a strong vocabulary, as well as nourishes strong writing skills.

 

For more information about the Department of Sociology, contact us, visit our website. Check out our departmental calendar or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for stories and news about upcoming events.  

For more information about the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, visit our website, contact our office or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  

The College of Sciences and Humanities boasts many successful alumni who are using their Ball State skills to contribute to professions within their field. We celebrate their successes and the preparation of a Ball State education in our Cardinal Directions series.