TOPIC:  Ep 32:  Legacy Talk: ”From DC Streets to Chief’s Seat.” Discussing  the Blueprint of Justice with Chief Clarence Edwards

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In this powerful episode of Moses’ People Speak, Chief Clarence Edwards sits down to unpack one of the most compelling journeys in modern policing — a rise that began on the streets of Washington, D.C., and led to the chief’s seat in Montgomery County. His story, captured in From D.C. Streets to Chief’s Seat, is rooted in resilience, preparation, and an unwavering belief in possibility.

Adding a profound layer to this conversation is guest host Captain Sonia Pruitt, whose own groundbreaking path was shaped under Chief Edwards’ leadership. Edwards was her very first police chief — a mentor whose example helped propel her to become the first Black female captain in Montgomery County. Their shared history transforms this episode into something rare: a dialogue between two barrier‑breakers whose careers reflect both the challenges and the promise of culturally aware, community‑centered policing.

Together, they explore leadership, legacy, institutional culture, and the urgent need for justice‑minded reform. What emerges is more than an interview — it’s a generational exchange, a blueprint for ethical policing, and a testament to what becomes possible when courage, preparation, and community meet.

Perfect for law enforcement professionals, educators, advocates, and anyone committed to reimagining public safety.

About our guest

Clarence Edwards is a distinguished figure in law enforcement, known both nationally and internationally. A trailblazer in his field, Edwards made history as Maryland’s first African American county police chief while serving in Montgomery County. He also held notable positions as an assistant commissioner for the U.S. General Services Administration, overseeing national law enforcement and security operations, and as a major in the United States Park Police.

Edwards's academic credentials include a Master of Science from The Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement from The American University. His extensive training background encompasses the Federal Executive Institute, the FBI National Executive Institute, and the FBI National Academy. He also served as the national president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives.

Beyond his leadership roles, Edwards has significantly contributed to law enforcement and security training globally, teaching in countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Uganda, and Greece under the United States State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program. His expertise in police bias prevention and operational protocol review has been sought after by various law enforcement agencies, including the Maryland Transportation Authority and Maryland Transit Police.

About our host

Sonia Pruitt is a distinguished figure within law enforcement and academia. With a robust career spanning 28 years, she retired as a veteran from the Montgomery County PD in Maryland, where she made history as the first African American woman to ascend to the rank of captain. Presently, Pruitt is currently a professor of Criminal Justice at both Howard University in Washington, D.C. and Montgomery College in Maryland, where she imparts her wealth of knowledge and experience to aspiring professionals. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom as she has also served as the past-president of the National Black Police Association, advocating for equity and representation within law enforcement. Additionally, Pruitt is the visionary Founder & CEO of The Black Police Experience, an organization committed to advancing education and awareness surrounding the intricate dynamics between law enforcement and the Black community. Through her multifaceted roles, Pruitt continues to shape and influence discourse in both academic and societal realms.