The Speaker

Lowell K. Duckett is a highly respected law enforcement veteran, security expert, and educator with over five decades of distinguished service in public safety, law enforcement, and security training. Known in the media as “The Avenging Angel” for his relentless efforts in combating drug crimes, violent offenses, and murders during his tenure at the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., Duckett has left an indelible mark on public safety in the nation's capital.

During his 28-year career with the MPD, Duckett rose to the rank of Lieutenant and served as Special Assistant to the Chief of Police. He led elite tactical units, including the Narcotics Strike Force and the Special Emphasis Unit, which focused on dismantling violent criminal enterprises and reducing street violence. His leadership in high-stakes operations earned him two Bronze Medals for Merit and two Silver Bars for Valor and Heroism, along with numerous citizen commendations and the Washington, D.C. Mayor’s Distinguished Service Award.

A sought-after thought leader in public safety strategy, Duckett authored the influential report “Strategies of Youth Violence and Effective Tactical Deployment Strategies” and frequently appeared on media outlets such as Evening Exchange and Cross Talk. His commitment to fostering community engagement and rehabilitation was evident through his prison ministry work at the Lorton Reformatory and his advisory role at the Bibleway Learning Center.

In his current role as Executive Vice President & Chief of LAWW Security Services LLC, Duckett oversees strategic operations, client relations, and service excellence. His leadership ensures that clients receive top-tier security solutions tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, as Director of the LAWW Security Academy, he spearheads comprehensive training programs that certify and prepare security professionals for both armed and unarmed roles, as well as advanced certifications in CCW, HQL, and less-lethal defense tactics.

Duckett holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice Administration from Claflin University (3.85 GPA) and a Master of Science in Management from Troy University (3.80 GPA). He has earned executive management certifications from the FBI and advanced law enforcement training from the University of South Carolina Moore Business School and the Central Savannah River Area Law Enforcement Training Center.

A dynamic educator, Duckett also served as an adjunct professor at the University of the District of Columbia, where he taught ethics and professionalism in urban policing. His commitment to shaping the next generation of security professionals and leaders underscores his lifelong mission to protect and serve.

Through his enduring legacy of service, innovation, and leadership, Lowell K. Duckett continues to set the standard for excellence in law enforcement and security.

The Workshop

Can The Culture of Policing Change? : Thursday, September 25, 2025 09:00A

The culture within an agency significantly influences its effectiveness and accountability, as well as the wellbeing of both its officers and the communities they serve. The culture within an agency significantly influences its effectiveness and accountability, as well as the wellbeing of both its officers and the communities they serve.

What is the mission of policing and why do people become police officers? Understanding the answers to these questions is critical for change. The current profession of policing lacks the guiding principles needed to create healthy cultures. “The police exist to protect the vulnerable from harm” and police culture must understand and reflect this. Yes, the culture of policing can change, but it requires a sustained effort and commitment from police leaders and officers.

Thus, one of the questions that must be answered is "Is it really only a few bad apples or is there something wrong with the culture of policing in the United States?"