About
Our Team
LPRC’s world-class team of loss prevention specialists is fully committed to creating a safer, more profitable future for the retail industry.
LPRC Team
Read Hayes, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Dr. Hayes started as a store detective in retail loss prevention and has more than 30 years of hands-on crime and loss control experience working with organizations worldwide. He is co-director of the Loss Prevention Research Team at the University of Florida and director of the retailer-supplier coalition Loss Prevention Research Council. Dr. Hayes co-founded the University of Florida’s globally used National Retail Security Survey in 1989 and has conducted more than 75 LP field research projects. He has spoken at more than 100 conferences and is the author of more than 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, 150 magazine articles, and four top-selling books. He provides crime prevention expertise to Fox News, CNN, NBC, CBS, ABC, NPR, Oprah, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, BusinessWeek, Forbes, Fast Company, USA Today, and the BBC.
Cory Lowe, Ph.D.
Director of Research
I’m a criminologist with a passion for applying rigorous academic methods to real-world challenges in retail crime, violence prevention, and loss mitigation. As the Director of Research at the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC), I lead multidisciplinary projects that connect retailers, solution providers, and law enforcement to generate actionable insights that reduce theft, fraud, and violence across the retail sector.
With a Ph.D. in Criminology, Law, and Society from the University of Florida, I have a deep foundation in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. My work bridges the gap between theory and practice —developing evidence-based strategies, conducting impact evaluations, and delivering results that drive safer and more secure retail environments. Most importantly, I ensure the LPRC is continuously improving both the quantity and quality of actionable research produced.
Key Focus Areas:
- Retail theft, organized retail crime (ORC), and violence prevention
- Applied research, experimental design, and impact assessment
- Stakeholder engagement across academia, the private sector, and public safety
- Technological, personnel, and process integration in crime prevention strategies
I regularly present research findings at industry and academic conferences, drive research projects within the LPRC community, and contribute to the development of innovative, scalable solutions that support major retail brands in protecting assets and people.
Personal Note: My greatest hero is my grandfather, Clayton Jackson Harris - he is the main reason that I turned out to be a decent human being.
Justin J. Smith, Ph.D.
Senior Research Scientist
Justin J. Smith was born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida. He received a Ph.D. in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Justin’s dissertation, “Innovation Resistance ? Understanding Officer Attitudes Toward Police Innovation ,” reported the key findings of a mixed-method study he devised that involved primary data collection. He surveyed and interviewed police officers regarding their opinions toward innovations such as community-oriented policing and crime analysis. Prior to receiving his doctorate, Justin received Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in criminal justice, both from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. He is also a graduate of Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. School of the Arts where he majored in theater. Justin has authored several peer-reviewed publications. He has presented at national conferences, such as the American Society of Criminology and the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, and regional conferences such as the Southern Criminal Justice Association. He has taught undergraduate courses such as Research Methods in Criminal Justice and Famous Crimes and Trials. His primary research interests include police innovation and culture, environmental criminology, and situational crime prevention. In his off hours, Justin enjoys exercising, watching classic films, and spending time with his family.
Christina Burton, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Christina received her PhD in criminal justice at the University of Central Florida in 2023 with her dissertation "Understanding the Interactions Between Conservation Agencies and Rangers: A Mixed-Methods Approach". She primarily focuses on survey design, situational crime prevention, intelligence-led policing and crime analysis, and environmental criminology. She previously received a Master’s Degree in criminal justice and a graduate certificate in crime analysis from UCF, and Bachelor’s Degrees in both anthropology and biology from the University of Florida. She has presented research at multiple conferences, including the American Society of Criminology, Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, Southern Criminal Justice Association, and Ranger Rendezvous. She has also published several peer-reviewed journal articles. She has also been recognized by ATHENA International with their Emerging Women Leadership Fellowship award for such scholarship. She also enjoys teaching and has been awarded the Outstanding Doctoral Student Educator Award within the Department of Criminal Justice at UCF. Christina applies her skills and knowledge to support LPRC research on supply chain protection, product protection, and other areas. For fun, she enjoys playing video games with her friends and spending quality time with her dog Ripley.
Sam Yeung, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Kam Leung (Sam) Yeung received his BS from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology at Iowa State University, where his research focused on consumer psychology, judgment, and decision-making. He conducted postdoctoral research at the University of North Florida and Iowa State. He has authored research reports in top journals such as Nature Sustainability and Educational Psychology Review, and an Op-Ed in The Washington Post on consumer behavior. He has extensive experience with experimental design and statistical modeling.
He is also well-versed in data science techniques such as SQL, Python, data visualization, machine learning, natural language processing, and big data analysis. He builds secure data pipelines, collects publicly available data at a large scale, and works on projects within the Innovate program and Retail Fraud working group at the LPRC.
He is always learning the latest data techniques. He is interested in biking, hiking, photography, and likes to spend time with his family.
Beau Nutter, M.A.
Research Scientist
Beau graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Sociology and a minor in Psychology, earning Magna Cum Laude honors. He continued his studies at UNCW to earn a Master of Arts in Criminology, where he specialized in advanced statistical analysis and criminological research methodologies.
Following his graduate studies, Beau served as a National Crime Information Center Specialist for the Wilmington Police Department. In this role, he managed sensitive FBI CJIS database operations and collaborated with federal, state, and local agencies to support real-time law enforcement investigations and public safety.
Now a Research Scientist at the Loss Prevention Research Council, Beau applies his background in data science and criminal justice to the retail sector. He leverages his expertise to evaluate the effectiveness of loss prevention technologies for LPRC members.
In his free time, Beau enjoys playing video games with friends and going to the gym to work out.
Jackie Lee M.S.
GIS Analyst
Jackie graduated from the University of Southern California with a master’s degree in Spatial Data Science, where she gained hands-on experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data analysis, and programming. She is passionate about combining spatial analysis and coding to streamline workflows and present meaningful results through interactive maps. Jackie enjoys using tools like Python and ArcGIS to automate geoprocessing tasks and support data-driven decision-making.
She currently works as a GIS Analyst at the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC), where she focuses on mapping and analyzing crime data to support public safety initiatives. Outside of work, Jackie enjoys playing basketball and video games, as well as exploring new restaurants and coffee shops. She is always eager to learn new skills and contribute to impactful, real-world projects using spatial data.
Josh Bush, M.S.
Research Project Coordinator
Josh Bush has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a focus in fermentation science from Appalachian State University along with a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship from the University of Florida. He has a diverse work history with experience in nuclear medicine, hazardous waste, chemistry research, hydrogen fuel cells, email marketing, brewing, and higher education lab management. While in his master’s program Josh was a top 16 finalist in UF’s Big Idea competition, a business plan and pitch competition for UF students. He is a solution-focused problem solver bringing his diverse experience and education to create solutions to unique problems. In his free time he spends time with his family cooking, hiking, and traveling. His favorite places to travel include Apalachicola, Florida as well as Boone, North Carolina.
Alex Palomar, M.B.A.
Research Project Coordinator
Alex Palomar graduated from the University of Florida in 2019 with a Bachelors of Criminology. She was able to excel academically, graduating Cum Laude and being involved in in the Criminology and Law honor society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars while enrolled at the university. She immediately began her career upon graduation in the forensic behavioral health field and moved into program evaluation for forensics. This inspired her to begin her journey and pursual of a Masters of Business Administration, which she achieved in 2023 from the John’s Hopkins University. She was able to obtain a Dean’s Merit Scholarship from the University as well. Since then, Alex has grown in her career with project management and criminal justice through the LPRC. She is welcoming a newborn baby as of June 2024 and will enjoy splitting her time between Baby Jovie and her career.
Tiffany Frison, M.A.
Research Administrator
Tiffany Frison, a native of Gainesville, Florida, graduated from the University College Dublin in 2021, where she received her Masters of Arts Degree in sociology. She has more than nine years of experience working in administration and international education, seven of those years at the University of Florida's English Language Institute. She started her LPRC journey as Research Assistant and has now moved into the role of Research Administrator. Working primarily with the criminologists on the team, she has the opportunity to apply all her years of experience to her role within the team. Tiffany is an active member in the local Gainesville community and strives to apply her creativity to all aspects of her life.
Tom Arigi
Chief of Staff
Tom is a seasoned retail executive with over 41 years of experience in retail operations, asset protection, and risk management. His career reflects a deep commitment to driving operational excellence and building resilient, secure retail environments.
Tom began his journey in Asset Protection at Sears, where he rose through the ranks to become Divisional Vice President of Asset Protection. Over the years, he has held critical leadership roles at major retailers including Walmart, Kroger, and most recently, American Freight Appliances and Furniture.
Throughout his career, Tom has collaborated with some of the industry's most respected leaders, contributing to the development of innovative and highly effective asset protection programs. His expertise spans shrink reduction, safety, business continuity, and organizational strategy.
As Chief of Staff at the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC), Tom brings a passion for people, a data-driven mindset, and a strategic approach to organizational design and effectiveness. He plays a key role in supporting the LPRC’s mission to advance retail safety and innovation through research, collaboration, and thought leadership.
Bryan Hayes
Chief Financial Officer
Bryan, a graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in Biology and Business Administration, brings a unique blend of scientific knowledge and business acumen to his role. With a proven track record in sales, business growth, and development, coupled with exceptional management skills and a sharp attention to detail, Bryan is a formidable asset to the Loss Prevention Research Council. Having dedicated four years to LPRC, Bryan is deeply committed to advancing the organization’s mission of fostering a safer and more profitable future for the retail industry. His strategic leadership and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in driving the LPRC towards its objectives and making a lasting impact in the industry.
Diego Rodriguez
Marketing Manager
Diego graduated from the University of Florida in 2019 where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, and a minor in Sociology. He graduated with cum laude honors for both degrees. While at the University of Florida he was heavily involved in pre-law programs including Phi Alpha Delta and the Bob Graham Center for Public Service. In 2019 the UF Phi Alpha Delta Pre Law chapter awarded him the inaugural Diego J Rodriguez UF Phi Alpha Delta Outstanding Member Award. He was also recognized by the National chapter for putting together Law in the Swamp, a pre-law conference with over 40 law schools and 20 organizations from across the nation. The event was awarded the National Outstanding Professional Program Award beating out dozens of other nominated programs. In his spare time, he enjoys finding new nature trails to explore and volunteering at the Alachua County Animal Services Center.
Hannah Williams
Retailer Engagement Coordinator
Hannah is a graduate of The University of Florida, with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Sustainability. She is an active member of TEDxUF, where she works on a team to fundraise and gain partnerships for their annual spring conference. In her free time, Hannah enjoys spending time with friends and exploring the many nature preserves in Gainesville. Hannah is encouraged to continue learning the Criminology and the psychological motives behind crime as a part of the operations team at LPRC.
Tom Keel
Solution Partner Engagement Coordinator
Tom is a long-time independent fee-based financial advisor within the Investment Management arena. As the Solution Partner Engagement Coordinator for the LPRC, he’s able to utilize his extensive marketing and client service skills. Tom is the main point of contact for the Solution Partner membership portion of the LPRC community and strives to advance their knowledge and use of the many benefits therein.
Kim Ruffier
Membership & Events Coordinator
Kim graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in public relations. She recently relocated back to Gainesville from Orlando, where she was the event manager for a historic venue, overseeing 100+ events a year. She was also active in civic and non-profit organizations such as the Orlando Museum of Art, Orange County Public Schools, and the City of Orlando. In her free time, Kim enjoys watching Gator sports, especially football and baseball, as well as spending time exploring outdoors and trying new restaurants.
James LeMaster
Research Technologist
With over 15 years of experience in the technology sector, James brings a wealth of expertise to his role as Research and IT Systems Manager at the LPRC. Having architected solutions within Fortune 500 environments and highly regulated sectors including Defense and Critical Infrastructure, he has developed a deep specialization in Systems Engineering and Cybersecurity. His professional focus centers on bridging the gap between robust Cybersecurity and operational efficiency. Beyond his technical contributions, James is a passionate advocate for professional development and team mentorship.
A native of the Seattle area now residing in Gainesville, James balances his professional career with a vibrant family life. He enjoys spending his off-time traveling and discovering new places alongside his wife and their four children.
Read Hayes, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Dr. Hayes started as a store detective in retail loss prevention and has more than 30 years of hands-on crime and loss control experience working with organizations worldwide. He is co-director of the Loss Prevention Research Team at the University of Florida and director of the retailer-supplier coalition Loss Prevention Research Council. Dr. Hayes co-founded the University of Florida’s globally used National Retail Security Survey in 1989 and has conducted more than 75 LP field research projects. He has spoken at more than 100 conferences and is the author of more than 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, 150 magazine articles, and four top-selling books. He provides crime prevention expertise to Fox News, CNN, NBC, CBS, ABC, NPR, Oprah, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, BusinessWeek, Forbes, Fast Company, USA Today, and the BBC.
Cory Lowe, Ph.D.
Director of Research
I’m a criminologist with a passion for applying rigorous academic methods to real-world challenges in retail crime, violence prevention, and loss mitigation. As the Director of Research at the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC), I lead multidisciplinary projects that connect retailers, solution providers, and law enforcement to generate actionable insights that reduce theft, fraud, and violence across the retail sector.
With a Ph.D. in Criminology, Law, and Society from the University of Florida, I have a deep foundation in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. My work bridges the gap between theory and practice —developing evidence-based strategies, conducting impact evaluations, and delivering results that drive safer and more secure retail environments. Most importantly, I ensure the LPRC is continuously improving both the quantity and quality of actionable research produced.
Key Focus Areas:
- Retail theft, organized retail crime (ORC), and violence prevention
- Applied research, experimental design, and impact assessment
- Stakeholder engagement across academia, the private sector, and public safety
- Technological, personnel, and process integration in crime prevention strategies
I regularly present research findings at industry and academic conferences, drive research projects within the LPRC community, and contribute to the development of innovative, scalable solutions that support major retail brands in protecting assets and people.
Personal Note: My greatest hero is my grandfather, Clayton Jackson Harris - he is the main reason that I turned out to be a decent human being.
Justin J. Smith, Ph.D.
Senior Research Scientist
Justin J. Smith was born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida. He received a Ph.D. in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Justin’s dissertation, “Innovation Resistance ? Understanding Officer Attitudes Toward Police Innovation ,” reported the key findings of a mixed-method study he devised that involved primary data collection. He surveyed and interviewed police officers regarding their opinions toward innovations such as community-oriented policing and crime analysis. Prior to receiving his doctorate, Justin received Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in criminal justice, both from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. He is also a graduate of Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. School of the Arts where he majored in theater. Justin has authored several peer-reviewed publications. He has presented at national conferences, such as the American Society of Criminology and the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, and regional conferences such as the Southern Criminal Justice Association. He has taught undergraduate courses such as Research Methods in Criminal Justice and Famous Crimes and Trials. His primary research interests include police innovation and culture, environmental criminology, and situational crime prevention. In his off hours, Justin enjoys exercising, watching classic films, and spending time with his family.
Christina Burton, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Christina received her PhD in criminal justice at the University of Central Florida in 2023 with her dissertation "Understanding the Interactions Between Conservation Agencies and Rangers: A Mixed-Methods Approach". She primarily focuses on survey design, situational crime prevention, intelligence-led policing and crime analysis, and environmental criminology. She previously received a Master’s Degree in criminal justice and a graduate certificate in crime analysis from UCF, and Bachelor’s Degrees in both anthropology and biology from the University of Florida. She has presented research at multiple conferences, including the American Society of Criminology, Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, Southern Criminal Justice Association, and Ranger Rendezvous. She has also published several peer-reviewed journal articles. She has also been recognized by ATHENA International with their Emerging Women Leadership Fellowship award for such scholarship. She also enjoys teaching and has been awarded the Outstanding Doctoral Student Educator Award within the Department of Criminal Justice at UCF. Christina applies her skills and knowledge to support LPRC research on supply chain protection, product protection, and other areas. For fun, she enjoys playing video games with her friends and spending quality time with her dog Ripley.
Sam Yeung, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Kam Leung (Sam) Yeung received his BS from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology at Iowa State University, where his research focused on consumer psychology, judgment, and decision-making. He conducted postdoctoral research at the University of North Florida and Iowa State. He has authored research reports in top journals such as Nature Sustainability and Educational Psychology Review, and an Op-Ed in The Washington Post on consumer behavior. He has extensive experience with experimental design and statistical modeling.
He is also well-versed in data science techniques such as SQL, Python, data visualization, machine learning, natural language processing, and big data analysis. He builds secure data pipelines, collects publicly available data at a large scale, and works on projects within the Innovate program and Retail Fraud working group at the LPRC.
He is always learning the latest data techniques. He is interested in biking, hiking, photography, and likes to spend time with his family.
Beau Nutter, M.A.
Research Scientist
Beau graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Sociology and a minor in Psychology, earning Magna Cum Laude honors. He continued his studies at UNCW to earn a Master of Arts in Criminology, where he specialized in advanced statistical analysis and criminological research methodologies.
Following his graduate studies, Beau served as a National Crime Information Center Specialist for the Wilmington Police Department. In this role, he managed sensitive FBI CJIS database operations and collaborated with federal, state, and local agencies to support real-time law enforcement investigations and public safety.
Now a Research Scientist at the Loss Prevention Research Council, Beau applies his background in data science and criminal justice to the retail sector. He leverages his expertise to evaluate the effectiveness of loss prevention technologies for LPRC members.
In his free time, Beau enjoys playing video games with friends and going to the gym to work out.
Jackie Lee M.S.
GIS Analyst
Jackie graduated from the University of Southern California with a master’s degree in Spatial Data Science, where she gained hands-on experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data analysis, and programming. She is passionate about combining spatial analysis and coding to streamline workflows and present meaningful results through interactive maps. Jackie enjoys using tools like Python and ArcGIS to automate geoprocessing tasks and support data-driven decision-making.
She currently works as a GIS Analyst at the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC), where she focuses on mapping and analyzing crime data to support public safety initiatives. Outside of work, Jackie enjoys playing basketball and video games, as well as exploring new restaurants and coffee shops. She is always eager to learn new skills and contribute to impactful, real-world projects using spatial data.
Josh Bush, M.S.
Research Project Coordinator
Josh Bush has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a focus in fermentation science from Appalachian State University along with a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship from the University of Florida. He has a diverse work history with experience in nuclear medicine, hazardous waste, chemistry research, hydrogen fuel cells, email marketing, brewing, and higher education lab management. While in his master’s program Josh was a top 16 finalist in UF’s Big Idea competition, a business plan and pitch competition for UF students. He is a solution-focused problem solver bringing his diverse experience and education to create solutions to unique problems. In his free time he spends time with his family cooking, hiking, and traveling. His favorite places to travel include Apalachicola, Florida as well as Boone, North Carolina.
Alex Palomar, M.B.A.
Research Project Coordinator
Alex Palomar graduated from the University of Florida in 2019 with a Bachelors of Criminology. She was able to excel academically, graduating Cum Laude and being involved in in the Criminology and Law honor society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars while enrolled at the university. She immediately began her career upon graduation in the forensic behavioral health field and moved into program evaluation for forensics. This inspired her to begin her journey and pursual of a Masters of Business Administration, which she achieved in 2023 from the John’s Hopkins University. She was able to obtain a Dean’s Merit Scholarship from the University as well. Since then, Alex has grown in her career with project management and criminal justice through the LPRC. She is welcoming a newborn baby as of June 2024 and will enjoy splitting her time between Baby Jovie and her career.
Tiffany Frison, M.A.
Research Administrator
Tiffany Frison, a native of Gainesville, Florida, graduated from the University College Dublin in 2021, where she received her Masters of Arts Degree in sociology. She has more than nine years of experience working in administration and international education, seven of those years at the University of Florida's English Language Institute. She started her LPRC journey as Research Assistant and has now moved into the role of Research Administrator. Working primarily with the criminologists on the team, she has the opportunity to apply all her years of experience to her role within the team. Tiffany is an active member in the local Gainesville community and strives to apply her creativity to all aspects of her life.
Tom Arigi
Chief of Staff
Tom is a seasoned retail executive with over 41 years of experience in retail operations, asset protection, and risk management. His career reflects a deep commitment to driving operational excellence and building resilient, secure retail environments.
Tom began his journey in Asset Protection at Sears, where he rose through the ranks to become Divisional Vice President of Asset Protection. Over the years, he has held critical leadership roles at major retailers including Walmart, Kroger, and most recently, American Freight Appliances and Furniture.
Throughout his career, Tom has collaborated with some of the industry's most respected leaders, contributing to the development of innovative and highly effective asset protection programs. His expertise spans shrink reduction, safety, business continuity, and organizational strategy.
As Chief of Staff at the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC), Tom brings a passion for people, a data-driven mindset, and a strategic approach to organizational design and effectiveness. He plays a key role in supporting the LPRC’s mission to advance retail safety and innovation through research, collaboration, and thought leadership.
Bryan Hayes
Chief Financial Officer
Bryan, a graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in Biology and Business Administration, brings a unique blend of scientific knowledge and business acumen to his role. With a proven track record in sales, business growth, and development, coupled with exceptional management skills and a sharp attention to detail, Bryan is a formidable asset to the Loss Prevention Research Council. Having dedicated four years to LPRC, Bryan is deeply committed to advancing the organization’s mission of fostering a safer and more profitable future for the retail industry. His strategic leadership and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in driving the LPRC towards its objectives and making a lasting impact in the industry.
Diego Rodriguez
Marketing Manager
Diego graduated from the University of Florida in 2019 where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, and a minor in Sociology. He graduated with cum laude honors for both degrees. While at the University of Florida he was heavily involved in pre-law programs including Phi Alpha Delta and the Bob Graham Center for Public Service. In 2019 the UF Phi Alpha Delta Pre Law chapter awarded him the inaugural Diego J Rodriguez UF Phi Alpha Delta Outstanding Member Award. He was also recognized by the National chapter for putting together Law in the Swamp, a pre-law conference with over 40 law schools and 20 organizations from across the nation. The event was awarded the National Outstanding Professional Program Award beating out dozens of other nominated programs. In his spare time, he enjoys finding new nature trails to explore and volunteering at the Alachua County Animal Services Center.
Hannah Williams
Retailer Engagement Coordinator
Hannah is a graduate of The University of Florida, with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Sustainability. She is an active member of TEDxUF, where she works on a team to fundraise and gain partnerships for their annual spring conference. In her free time, Hannah enjoys spending time with friends and exploring the many nature preserves in Gainesville. Hannah is encouraged to continue learning the Criminology and the psychological motives behind crime as a part of the operations team at LPRC.
Tom Keel
Solution Partner Engagement Coordinator
Tom is a long-time independent fee-based financial advisor within the Investment Management arena. As the Solution Partner Engagement Coordinator for the LPRC, he’s able to utilize his extensive marketing and client service skills. Tom is the main point of contact for the Solution Partner membership portion of the LPRC community and strives to advance their knowledge and use of the many benefits therein.
Kim Ruffier
Membership & Events Coordinator
Kim graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in public relations. She recently relocated back to Gainesville from Orlando, where she was the event manager for a historic venue, overseeing 100+ events a year. She was also active in civic and non-profit organizations such as the Orlando Museum of Art, Orange County Public Schools, and the City of Orlando. In her free time, Kim enjoys watching Gator sports, especially football and baseball, as well as spending time exploring outdoors and trying new restaurants.
James LeMaster
Research Technologist
With over 15 years of experience in the technology sector, James brings a wealth of expertise to his role as Research and IT Systems Manager at the LPRC. Having architected solutions within Fortune 500 environments and highly regulated sectors including Defense and Critical Infrastructure, he has developed a deep specialization in Systems Engineering and Cybersecurity. His professional focus centers on bridging the gap between robust Cybersecurity and operational efficiency. Beyond his technical contributions, James is a passionate advocate for professional development and team mentorship.
A native of the Seattle area now residing in Gainesville, James balances his professional career with a vibrant family life. He enjoys spending his off-time traveling and discovering new places alongside his wife and their four children.
Founders
Chad McIntosh
Chief Operating Officer
Chad retired from Bloomingdale’s where he was vice president of asset protection and risk management. Chad is an accomplished loss prevention executive with more than 40 years of experience as a strategic partner with corporate leadership. Chad has retail loss prevention experience with various retailers including Neiman Marcus, The Home Depot, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Macy’s. Chad is a founding member of LPRC and is currently the director of operations for the council. He is a graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in business administration.
Chad McIntosh
Chief Operating Officer
Chad retired from Bloomingdale’s where he was vice president of asset protection and risk management. Chad is an accomplished loss prevention executive with more than 40 years of experience as a strategic partner with corporate leadership. Chad has retail loss prevention experience with various retailers including Neiman Marcus, The Home Depot, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Macy’s. Chad is a founding member of LPRC and is currently the director of operations for the council. He is a graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in business administration.
Special Advisors
Mike Lamb
Special Advisor
Mike Lamb
Special Advisor
Research Fellows
Ben Stickle, Ph.D.
Research Fellow
Ben Stickle, Ph.D.
Research Fellow
Special Advisors
Mike Lamb
Special Advisor
Mike Lamb
Special Advisor
Research Fellows
Ben Stickle, Ph.D.
Research Fellow