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Jeffrey Lamoureaux has dedicated over 24 years to law enforcement, civil rights compliance, and Title IX investigations. Based in California, his career began with the Burbank Police Department, where he was awarded multiple honors for his bravery and service. Transitioning into higher education, he became a leader in Title IX and civil rights investigations, founding Compliance, Title IX, and Equity Investigations (CIXE). His expertise in trauma-informed care, due process, and institutional accountability has made him a respected figure in the field. His journey has been shaped by resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to fairness.
What is the biggest misconception about Title IX investigations?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that Title IX investigations are biased toward one side or another. I’ve seen critics claim that the system is either too lenient or too harsh, depending on their perspective. The truth is, Title IX is about fairness and equity for everyone involved. A well-run investigation is neutral, fact-driven, and focused on ensuring a process that respects due process while addressing harm.
Another misconception is that these cases are simple. In reality, every case is complex, emotionally charged, and requires careful consideration of trauma, credibility, and institutional policies. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, which is why it’s crucial to have experienced professionals handling these matters.
How did your experience in law enforcement shape the way you approach Title IX and civil rights compliance?
Law enforcement taught me how to conduct thorough, impartial investigations under pressure. In those high-stakes situations, I had to make decisions based on evidence, not emotion or assumption. That same discipline applies to Title IX and civil rights cases. The process must be fair, unbiased, and focused on facts rather than public opinion.
More importantly, my time in law enforcement exposed me to the lasting effects of trauma. Responding to violent crimes and high-stress incidents gave me a deep understanding of how trauma affects memory, behavior, and perception. Now, in Title IX investigations, I use a trauma-informed approach, ensuring that all parties are treated with respect while maintaining a rigorous commitment to due process.
You’ve spoken about PTSD and the toll of high-pressure careers. How do you manage your own mental health?
For a long time, I didn’t. I threw myself into work, thinking that if I just kept moving forward, I wouldn’t have to deal with the emotional aftermath of what I had seen and experienced. That was a mistake. It took my wife, Melissa, pointing out the toll it was taking on me to finally acknowledge that I needed to make changes.
Counseling was a turning point. It helped me process the experiences I had in law enforcement and transition into a healthier mindset. I also prioritize physical activity, like walking and weightlifting, to clear my mind. Most importantly, my faith and family keep me grounded. I’ve learned that taking care of my mental health isn’t a weakness—it’s what allows me to continue doing meaningful work.
What is one moment in your career that changed you?
There are a few defining moments, but one that stands out was the Matthew Pavelka incident. I was the first officer on the scene and performed CPR on Officer Pavelka after he was shot during a drug-related stop. That night changed everything for me. It reinforced how unpredictable life can be and how critical it is to always act with integrity and purpose.
That experience also deepened my understanding of trauma, not just for the individuals directly involved but for entire communities. When I transitioned into Title IX and civil rights work, I carried that perspective with me. I knew that my job wasn’t just about policies and procedures—it was about the people affected and the long-term impact on their lives.
What is the most challenging part of leading external investigations through CIXE?
The most challenging part is dealing with resistance to change. Some institutions bring in external investigators because they recognize the need for unbiased, expert-level assessments. Others do it because they have to, but they may not be fully committed to addressing systemic issues. It can be frustrating when an institution is more focused on minimizing liability than actually creating a safer, more equitable environment.
That said, I’ve also worked with organizations that genuinely want to improve, and that’s where I see the most rewarding results. Helping institutions build stronger, more effective Title IX and civil rights compliance programs is one of the most impactful parts of my work.
What advice would you give to someone starting a career in civil rights compliance or Title IX investigations?
First, commit to lifelong learning. Laws and policies evolve, and so should your understanding of best practices. Never assume that you know everything—always seek out training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
Second, develop resilience. This work is not easy. You will deal with difficult cases, emotional conversations, and institutional pushback. It’s essential to stay focused on the bigger picture: creating environments where people feel safe, heard, and treated fairly.
Finally, don’t do this work in isolation. Build a network of trusted colleagues who share your values and can support you when challenges arise. The best investigators and compliance professionals are the ones who recognize that this is a collaborative effort, not a solo mission.
What keeps you motivated to continue in this field?
Knowing that I’m making a difference. Some days are tough, but then I’ll see the impact of a well-conducted investigation, a training that changed someone’s perspective, or a policy that leads to better protections for students and employees. Those moments remind me why I do this work.
My family also keeps me motivated. My daughters, Bella and Dani, are in college, and I want them—and every student—to have access to an educational environment that is safe, fair, and equitable. That’s what drives me every day.
What’s next for you?
I want to continue growing CIXE and expanding access to high-quality, external Title IX and civil rights compliance services. Many institutions don’t have the resources to hire full-time experts, and I want to ensure that they have access to the guidance and investigative services they need.
I also want to focus on mentoring the next generation of Title IX and civil rights professionals. There is a need for more skilled, ethical investigators in this field, and I want to do my part in helping develop future leaders who will continue this important work.
Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting impact on this field—not just through the cases I handle, but through the professionals I help train, the institutions I support, and the people I serve.
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Photo provided by the author.
