He is certified as a specialist in forensic psychology from the American Board of Professional Psychology with particular specialization in competency to stand trial/proceed, mental state at the time of offense, violence and sexual recidivism risk assessment, and sentencing mitigation. Dr. Ruiz is an Associate Editor of Assessment and has published over 25 research studies in peer-reviewed scientific journals. A veteran of the United States Army, he served as an infantry officer and he deployed with the Florida National Guard’s 53rd Infantry Brigade to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.