Active SBPD Officer &
School Resource Officer
School Resource Officer
About Jalen
From South Bend to the Nation
Jalen Lee grew up in South Bend, Indiana — a city that shaped his understanding of community, justice, and the complex relationship between neighborhoods and law enforcement. A graduate of Washington High School and Ball State University, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice & Criminology, Jalen began speaking professionally while still in college — writing his first book and traveling to universities across the country on purpose, identity, and unlocking personal potential.
After graduating, Jalen became a Sworn Police Officer with the South Bend Police Department in 2020. Within two years, he was promoted to School Resource Officer — a role that revealed the dangerous gap between students and the officers meant to protect them. His response was Street Skills: a research-backed curriculum with pre and post assessments teaching young people how to safely navigate encounters with law enforcement.
Today, Jalen speaks to schools, colleges, and law enforcement agencies across the country — bringing a perspective no outside consultant can match. He has been inside the system. He understands both sides. And he knows how to close the gap.
BS in Criminal Justice & Criminology — Ball State University
Police Officer — South Bend Police Department (2020–Present)
Promoted: School Resource Officer (2022)
Author: Street Skills content book & workbook with pre/post assessments
Keynote speaker at colleges & universities nationally since 2018
