The partners are not just setting behind a desk.

Stan Sparks
Chief Executive Officer/Chief

CEO, Partner, and Chief of Sparks Protection Services, LLC—a company that was founded in 2013 that reflects a dedication to excellence in security, safety management, and investigations. With over 35 years of experience, he has carved out a reputation for his comprehensive capabilities in areas ranging from tactical operations and executive protection management to loss prevention and intelligence analysis.
Stan is a licensed Ohio private investigator with specialized expertise in threat assessment, situational awareness, and homeland security, exemplifying his role as an Ohio Intelligence Liaison Officer. His credentials are further bolstered by prestigious certifications, including Wicklander & Zulawski Interview and Interrogation Certification and a Master Certification in Loss Prevention.
Before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey, Stan honed his skills as a deputy sheriff in Texas, where he dealt with patrol duties, traffic enforcement, narcotics, and investigations. His academic background from Liberty University—earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Human Resource Executive Management/Counseling with honors—demonstrates his commitment to both the practical and humanistic aspects of security management.
Complementing his extensive professional career, Stan is also a licensed and ordained chaplain and a proud US Marine Corps veteran with experience as a Scout Sniper in the STA-Platoon. His diverse background uniquely positions him to lead with a blend of strategic insight, operational acumen, and compassionate guidance, making him a formidable figure in the realm of security and safety management. 
Served as Safety Specialist L4 at Amazon Fulfillment/HAZMAT Central Ohio Location, focused on ensuring a compliant, risk-aware workplace by executing safety programs, analyzing hazard leading incident investigations, and driving continuous improvement through training, metrics,  and regulatory alignment.
OSHA 30 General and OSHA 30 Construction Certification.

Steve Sparks
Chief Operating Officer/Owner/Assistant Chief

COO, Partner, and Assistant Chief at Sparks Protection Services, LLC a role he's embraced since 2013, with over 35 years of experience. As a licensed Ohio Private Investigator, his proficiency spans comprehensive background screening---including but not limited to missing persons, criminal, civil, corporate, and domestic cases---along with top-tier skills in executive security management and tactical operations.
Before working in security, Steve enriched his leadership at Goodland Academy from 2001 2013. In this environment, he served as a Houseparent, Principal, Program Coordinator, 4-H Director, Scout Master, and Coach. This experience honed his ability to guide diverse teams, manage critical situations,and nurture  a culture of resilience. 
Steve's academic foundation is equally impressive. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Liberty University, graduating with honors--a reflection of his dedication to continuous personal and professional growth. Complementing his academic credentials, his service as a Texas Law Enforcement Peace Officer, his participation on the 81st Judicial Drug Task Force, and his work as a School Resource Officer specialized in gang intervention underscore his practical expertise in enforcing the law and maintaining public safety.
Further amplifying his distinguished profile, Steve is a US Marine Corps Veteran and served as a Scout Sniper in the STA-Platoon. This military background infuses his leadership with unparalleled discipline, strategic thinking, and precision, tying together a career that spans the intersections of law enforcement, education, and corporate security.
This dynamic fusion of skills not only position Steve Sparks as a leader in safeguarding organization but also as a mentor who balances rigor with compassion--an inspiring model for those navigating the complex world of security and safety management.

William Murphy
Executive Sales and Field Operations Manager  Rank: Major

William, also known as Bill, holds a position on the Sparks Protection Services (SPS) Executive Committee Board. Currently serving as the Executive Accounts and Patrol Manager, he brings nearly 25 years of experience in different roles, including Patrolman, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and Major. He possesses extensive expertise across every facet of the security and private protection sector. With a wealth of experience in interacting with clients, his primary focus is safeguarding their assets. He boasts a solid history of meeting and surpassing sales goals of millions of dollars, pinpointing the needs of customers, and fostering enduring relationships with them. Additionally, he manages the operations of all patrol officers and enjoys being out in the field with them. He has a background in transporting prisoners and capturing fugitives. He is also a certified Chaplain for our first responder team. With 12 years of service as a firefighter in Laurelville, Ohio, 5 years as a First Responder, and experience with the Homeland Security detachment during Hurricane Katrina, 5 years in tactical operations management, and certifications in Gang and Riot Control, Domestic Violence, and Verbal De-Escalation, as well as Trauma and Major Wound Care, he is a well-rounded professional.