James E. Moss was born in Columbus, Ohio and he attended Columbus Public Schools. He graduated from Central High School in 1967. After high school, Mr. Moss joined the U.S. Army. He was an Airborne Ranger in the Vietnam War and he obtained the rank of sergeant. He received the combat infantry badge and other medals while serving in the Vietnam War from 1968-1969. He was honorably discharged in March 1970.

Mr. Moss graduated from Ohio Dominican College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration. He has furthered his education by receiving two Master Degrees from The Ohio State University. He has a M.A. in Black Studies and a M.A. in U.S. History. Mr. Moss has finished his course work for his Doctorate Degree in American History. (ABD)

Mr. Moss joined the Columbus Police Department in October 1970. He worked in the patrol bureau, organized crime unit, and burglary squad. He retired in July 1994 with twenty-four years of law enforcement training and obtained the rank of sergeant. He received a Chief of Police Award for bravery and community service, was nominated twice for the Police Officer of the Year Award, and received the Police Officer of the Year Award from the National Black Police Association in 1993, and Coach of the Year in 1983 for the Columbus Police Athletic League. He received The Jefferson Award for public service in 1986 for his volunteer work with the Police Athletic League. He has attended many law enforcement schools and has conducted many workshops and seminars.