Prior to his current role, James Battle served as a Patrol Sergeant from February 2017 to January 2021. In this supervisory position, he was responsible for overseeing field operations, ensuring that patrol officers executed their duties in accordance with departmental policies and procedures. His leadership and commitment to public safety were evident as he managed high-stakes situations with precision and care.

James' career also includes an extensive tenure as a Narcotics Detective, where he specialized in drug and vice crime investigations. From January 2010 to February 2017, he worked on cases involving organized crime, gathering and analyzing sensitive information to disrupt criminal activities. His efforts not only led to numerous successful prosecutions but also contributed to a safer community.

Adding to his extensive experience, James served as an investigator for the State of North Carolina Department of Justice Standards Division. In this role, he was responsible for ensuring that law enforcement officers across the state adhered to the highest standards of professional conduct and performance, further cementing his reputation for integrity and thoroughness.

James also gained valuable experience working at Raleigh Durham International Airport as a checkpoint police officer for a year. His duties included assisting in opening and closing the TSA security checkpoint, providing general security, and helping passengers find their way to the appropriate gates. Through this role, he developed a strong working knowledge of TSA rules and procedures, as well as the layout of the airport.