Robert W. Clark, Ph.D.

Few individuals embody the spirit of innovation, resilience, and service quite like Dr. Robert W. Clark, Ph.D. (Cyberpsychology), FBI-Ret. From the front lines of law enforcement to the vanguard of academic research, Dr. Clark has spent nearly four decades redefining what it means to protect and empower communities in a rapidly changing world. As a Capitol Technology University alumnus, Dr. Clark stands as a testament to the power of bridging technology, psychology, and public safety—transforming not only the agencies and cities served, but also the very future of how society confronts its most urgent challenges. His journey is not just a chronicle of personal achievement; it is an inspiring blueprint for the next generation of leaders determined to make a difference where it matters most. 

Career Journey

Currently serving as Deputy Mayor of Public Safety for the City of Los Angeles, Dr. Clark brings a wealth of experience from a career marked by leadership and technological advancement. After retiring in 2016 as Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, Dr. Clark led critical operations and pioneered initiatives such as the FBI/LAPD Virtual Homicide Library and Operation Save Our Streets, which helped solve over 650 cold cases. His career also includes roles as Vice President/Chief of Police for the Philadelphia Housing Authority, Director of Public Safety in Columbus, Ohio, and Senior Superintendent of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service. Dr. Clark’s dedication has been recognized with honors including the FBI Assistant Directors Award (Technology), LAPD Unit Citation Award, El Salvador National Civil Police Award, and a City Proclamation with the Key to the City of Youngstown, Ohio. 

Capitol Tech Education

In October 2025, Dr. Clark successfully defended his dissertation, Mass Shootings in America – A Law Enforcement Response, earning a Ph.D. in Cyberpsychology from Capitol Tech. His research integrates cyberpsychology concepts such as online grievance formation, leakage detection, and social-media contagion with law enforcement doctrine. The study advocates for the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) and social-media intelligence (SOCMINT) to enhance prediction, intervention, and prevention strategies against mass shootings. 

Advocacy and Community Efforts

Throughout his career and beyond, Dr. Clark has demonstrated a profound commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and community resilience. Recognizing the importance of supporting at-risk youth and fostering positive change, Dr. Clark founded New Point Mentoring, an initiative dedicated to guiding young people toward constructive paths and empowering them to overcome adversity. As a co-founder of Simi Valley Journey and a board member of the Al Wooten Junior Youth Center, Dr. Clark has played a pivotal role in developing programs that build community strength, promote educational opportunities, and nurture leadership among underserved populations. His advocacy extends to leadership roles in organizations focused on violence prevention and systemic reform. As a former Vice President of Not One More, Dr. Clark contributed to efforts aimed at providing education and intervention for those suffering from substance addiction, including supporting affected families. His active involvement in professional associations—including the Association for Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP), ASIS, IACP, NAACP, and NOBLE—demonstrates a lifelong dedication to justice, equity, and the advancement of best practices in public safety. Through these diverse roles, Dr. Clark has championed initiatives that address the root causes of violence, promote diversity and inclusion, and inspire others to pursue ethical leadership and community service.

Global Context

The challenges addressed by Dr. Clark, particularly mass shootings and public safety, are not confined to local or national boundaries; they are global in scope and impact. By integrating cyberpsychology with law enforcement practice, Dr. Clark’s research offers scalable, ethically governed solutions that can be adapted by communities and agencies worldwide. His work highlights the importance of understanding online behaviors, social-media contagion, and digital grievance formation—phenomena that transcend borders and affect societies everywhere. 

“True public safety is achieved not just through mere enforcement," said Dr. Clark, "but by empowering communities, embracing innovation, and never losing sight of our shared humanity."

Through his international leadership roles, including service as Senior Superintendent of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service and collaboration with law enforcement agencies in El Salvador and beyond, Dr. Clark has demonstrated how innovative strategies and cross-disciplinary expertise can strengthen public safety on a global scale. His advocacy for ethical AI and SOCMINT is especially relevant as multiple nations grapple with the complexities of digital threats and the need for proactive, preventive approaches. 

By mentoring future leaders and contributing to professional organizations with international reach, Dr. Clark continues to influence policy, practice, and research far beyond the United States. His journey exemplifies how Capitol Technology graduates are uniquely equipped to tackle global challenges at the intersection of technology and human behavior, inspiring others to pursue solutions that protect and empower communities worldwide.

Legacy

The legacy of Dr. Clark is defined not only by a decorated career and groundbreaking research, but by a relentless pursuit of justice, innovation, and ethical leadership. Through visionary work in law enforcement and cyberpsychology, Dr. Clark has set new standards for how technology and human insight can be harnessed to protect communities and address society’s most urgent challenges. His commitment to mentoring, advocacy, and systemic reform continues to ripple outward—empowering future scholars, practitioners, and leaders to build safer, more resilient communities. As Capitol Tech’s mission comes to life through Dr. Clark’s journey, his story stands as a beacon for all who aspire to combine technical expertise with compassion and integrity in service of the greater good.