RICK BATES retired as a lieutenant after a distinguished 32-year career with the Worcester (MA) Police Department. During his tenure, he served in multiple critical roles, including risk manager, accreditation manager, academy director, legal advisor, internal investigator, detective, and patrol officer. Rick also worked at Lexipol as a Professional Services Representative, where he used his extensive experience to support law enforcement agencies in managing risk and enhancing operational effectiveness.
Rick frequently lectures on topics such as risk management for law enforcement, police supervisory liability, and First Amendment and free speech issues for police, sharing his expertise with professionals across the field. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Anna Maria College and a Juris Doctor from New England School of Law. Additionally, Rick is a 2012 graduate of the FBI National Academy (Session 249) and the Massachusetts Police Leadership Institute, further underscoring his commitment to professional development and leadership in public safety.