Based in Fridley, Minnesota, Joseph Sturdevant spent 20 years with the City of Columbia Heights police force and worked regularly within the community. He contributed to organizations such as DARE, Neighborhood Watch, and Business Watch, and also participated in a car seat checking program, Safety Camp, as well as Coffee with a Cop. Joseph Sturdevant was also recognized for his contributions to Twin Cities Metro Transit by the Metro Transit Transportation Committee, which honored him for his superior service. He was also featured in several Metro Transit publications, including Metro Transit Insight.
In addition to his previous work as a police officer, Joseph Sturdevant is a mental health crisis trainer and facilitator with the Barbara Schneider Foundation. In this role, he instructs working professionals on how to identify, deescalate, and communicate with people involved in mental health crises. He was also a member of the board of directors in the Fridley School District, where he recently served as the director and treasurer.