Policing Matters

In the latest episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Alison Esposito, a former NYPD Deputy Inspector who is now making a bid for Congress. The episode dives into the pressing issues facing law enforcement today, including the movement to defund the police, the repercussions of policy changes following the 2020 protests, and the challenges of law enforcement recruitment and public perception. Alison Esposito brings nearly 25 years of experience with the NYPD to the table, where she rose to the rank of Deputy Inspector and commanded the 70th Police District. Following in the footsteps of her father, NYPD Chief Michael Esposito, Alison joined the force because she believes that those who are in danger, and cannot defend themselves, have the right to be safe, free and protected. Her career, marked by a commitment to public safety and community service, now extends into the political arena where she aims to influence law enforcement policy on a national level. As a candidate for Congress, Esposito focuses on strengthening public safety, supporting law enforcement officers, and addressing the consequences of recent criminal justice reforms. For more information, click here. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

In this week’s episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley welcomes Sheriff Scott Rose, host and producer of the "Officer Down Memorial Podcast," to discuss the genesis of his podcast and the importance of advocating for the families of fallen LEOs and mental wellness resources for law enforcement. Elected as the 26th Sheriff of Dodge County, Minnesota in 2014, Rose brings a personal and generational commitment to the profession, with a family history deeply rooted in law enforcement. During the episode, Rose discusses the impact of cumulative stress, PTSD among officers, and the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices of fallen officers. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by Skydio. Learn more about how Skydio enhances public safety and operational efficiency by visiting Skydio.com.

Effective police leadership transcends the mere management of law enforcement personnel; it involves inspiring change, fostering community trust and navigating complex socio-political landscapes. Leaders in law enforcement face unique challenges that require not only a deep understanding of law and policy but also strong interpersonal skills and strategic vision. This calls for specialized training programs that address the specific needs of police leadership at various levels. In a recent episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley engages with retired NYPD Chief Kenneth Corey, who now plays a pivotal role at the Policing Leadership Academy in Chicago. Chief Corey discusses the nuances of leading a large police force, the transformative power of mentorship and the Academy's innovative approach to training police commanders. This episode provides valuable insights into the complexities of police leadership and the critical role of continuous education in enhancing the efficacy and ethical standards of law enforcement officers. Learn more about the Policing Leadership Academy. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by Skydio. Learn more about how Skydio enhances public safety and operational efficiency by visiting Skydio.com.

The U.S. corrections system is at a crossroads, grappling with high recidivism rates and the growing need for a shift from punitive approaches to more rehabilitative and supportive measures. By integrating data-driven applications and fostering relationships between inmates and corrections staff, there’s potential to reform how jails and prisons operate. This not only aims to better assess risks but also to ensure the safety of both correctional officers and incarcerated individuals, preparing them for a successful reintegration into society. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley welcomes Dr. Brian Lovins, a criminology expert and principal at Justice System Partners, and past president of the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA). Dr. Lovins discusses the application of data-driven technologies in corrections and emphasizes the importance of relationship-building in rehabilitation. The conversation delves into how corrections agencies can use these tools to ensure safety, facilitate rehabilitation and prepare inmates for life after release. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

Every day, law enforcement officers put themselves in harm's way to ensure public safety and are often severely injured in that process. The repercussions of on-duty injuries can extend far beyond the physical. The aftermath often brings a cascade of challenges that affect not only the injured officers but also their families and colleagues. In this episode of the "Policing Matters" podcast host Jim Dudley speaks with Dr. Patricia Kay Reyna about her family's ordeal following a devastating on-duty accident that left her husband, Humberto Reyna, a North Carolina State Highway Patrol Master Trooper, with a traumatic brain injury. Currently working with the Center on Brain Injury Research and Training at the University of Oregon, Dr. Reyna discusses her transformative journey from a finance professional to a traumatic brain injury expert and advocate. Her story sheds light on the physical, emotional and bureaucratic struggles that ensue following such injuries in the line of duty. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

In recent years, law enforcement agencies across the United States have navigated through tumultuous waters, marked by heightened scrutiny and significant shifts in operational norms. This complex landscape has given rise to a phenomenon known as de-policing, where officers may exhibit reluctance to engage proactively due to various external and internal pressures. Doctoral candidate Jacob Foster from Arizona State University, alongside Dr. Michael Rossler at Illinois State University and Dr. Charles Scheer at the University of Southern Mississippi, embarked on a rigorous investigation into the nuances of de-policing. Their research, born out of the desire to empirically examine the anecdotal experiences surrounding modern law enforcement challenges, provides an empirical foundation to understand how external events like the Ferguson effect and the George Floyd incident, coupled with internal departmental dynamics, influence police behavior. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Foster, Rossler and Scheer about their findings, which were recently published in Police Practice and Research, and how they illuminate the complexities of policing in an era of unprecedented scrutiny. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

In the history of American policing, the need for strong, effective leadership has never been more apparent. As law enforcement agencies across the nation grapple with evolving challenges, the role of leadership in navigating these complexities comes into sharp focus. Leadership is not just about guiding an organization through its daily operations; it's about setting a vision, inspiring trust, and fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with recently retired Captain William Fraass, who took his 27 years of law enforcement experience and wrote a book on leadership titled: “Leadership in Law Enforcement: 10 Key Traits and What Law Enforcement Agencies Can Do To Develop These in Future Leaders.” His book is not just an accumulation of personal experiences but a comprehensive study that includes interviews with law enforcement professionals, historical analysis and a deep dive into what makes a leader effective in the high-stakes realm of policing.

In a profession as demanding as law enforcement, mental wellness and health are paramount, yet often sidelined. Addressing this critical aspect, the latest episode of the Policing Matters podcast delves into the innovative approaches and best practices for fostering mental health and wellness among officers. Chief Dave Norris of the Menlo Park (Calif.) Police Department and Chaplain Jared Altic from the Kansas City (Kan.) Police Department join host Jim Dudley to shed light on the proactive measures and support systems necessary to ensure the well-being of those who protect and serve. Chief Norris and Chaplain Altic share their extensive experiences in handling critical incident aftermaths and emphasize the importance of preemptive strategies for mental wellness. From establishing peer support programs and chaplaincy initiatives to leveraging technology and community resources, our guests offer a comprehensive overview of how agencies can build a supportive environment for their officers. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

The landscape of law enforcement in the United States is in a constant state of evolution. From the transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) from the traditional FBI Uniform Crime Report (UCR) to the growing need for comprehensive officer training and community engagement strategies, police departments nationwide are navigating a complex web of changes and challenges. These shifts underscore the critical need for innovative approaches to support law enforcement agencies in their mission to serve and protect. As the demands on police officers grow more complex, the importance of access to high-quality training, resources and technical assistance cannot be overstated. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley talks to David T. Snively, a program manager for the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), to explore how the Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center (CRI-TAC) program can assist law enforcement agencies in navigating current challenges. This initiative offers police agencies access to tailored training and resources designed to meet their unique needs. Through this conversation, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how CRI-TAC empowers agencies to improve their operations and foster better relationships with the communities they serve. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

The transition to retirement for law enforcement officers is a journey that often begins much earlier than the last day on the job, yet it is a topic that doesn't always receive the attention it deserves. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley shines a spotlight on the future well-being of law enforcement professionals, a timely discussion set against the backdrop of First Responder Wellness Week. Guest Troy Anderson, who serves as the Executive Director, Officer Safety and Wellness, for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), shares expert insights into making this critical transition a successful one. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

The concept of evidence-based policing has increasingly become a focal point in discussions about law enforcement reform and innovation. At its core, evidence-based policing seeks to bridge the gap between scientific research and policing strategies, utilizing the best available evidence to inform, challenge and ultimately enhance the decisions, policies and practices within the law enforcement community. This approach not only aims to improve the effectiveness of policing methods but also strives to foster a greater degree of accountability and transparency within the field. By grounding decisions in empirical evidence, the law enforcement community can more confidently address complex challenges, ranging from crime prevention to community relations, in an increasingly data-driven world. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Dr. Jerry Ratcliffe, a leading figure in the realm of evidence-based policing. With a career that began in the UK before transitioning to an academic role at Temple University, Ratcliffe brings a unique blend of practical experience and scholarly insight to the conversation. The author of "Reducing Crime: A Companion for Police Leaders" and "Evidence-Based Policing: The Basics," and host of the Reducing Crime podcast, Ratcliffe’s perspectives shed light on the critical role of evidence-based practices in shaping the future of law enforcement, advocating for a policing model that is not only responsive but also anticipatory, driven by data and committed to continuous improvement. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

In the realm of criminal investigations, cold cases have always presented unique challenges and frustrations for law enforcement and affected families. Yet, the advent of advanced forensic technologies, especially DNA analysis and genealogy, has revolutionized our ability to solve cases that were once thought to be lost to time. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Lindsey Wade, a Senior Law Enforcement Specialist at RTI International, about the intricacies of cold case investigations, highlighting the critical role of emerging technologies and the unwavering dedication of investigators in bringing long-awaited justice. With 21 years of experience as a Tacoma, Washington police officer and detective, Lindsey Wade has investigated a wide array of crimes, including sexual assaults, child abuse, missing persons and homicides. Notably, she played a pivotal role in creating the Tacoma Police Department's Child Abduction Response Team (CART), the first CART in Washington state to be certified by the Department of Justice. Since retiring from active duty, Wade has continued her mission to solve cold cases, utilizing DNA evidence to uncover the truth behind unsolved crimes. She recently published a true crime memoir titled, “In My DNA: My Career Investigating Your Worst Nightmares,” and is the author of "DNA’s delayed justice: The fight to fill the gaps in CODIS," published on Police1. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

The policing landscape on the West Coast has faced significant scrutiny and challenges, from policy decisions and rising crime rates to issues surrounding homelessness, drug abuse and mental health. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Brian Marvel, a seasoned San Diego police officer and the current president of the Police Officers Research Association of California (PORAC), to discuss the formation of the West Coast Law Enforcement Coalition and its efforts to address these pressing concerns. The episode offers a deep dive into the intricacies of policing, the impact of legislation and the quest for effective solutions to improve public safety and law enforcement professionalism. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

The resolution of cold cases represents a beacon of hope and justice in the often murky waters of criminal investigations. As time passes, the challenges in solving these cases magnify, yet the importance of bringing closure to victims' families and holding perpetrators accountable never wanes. With advancements in forensic technology and investigative methods, law enforcement agencies are experiencing a renaissance in cracking cases that have remained unsolved for years, if not decades. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks to Detective Matt Hutchison of the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety in California about his innovative approach to investigating cold cases that have led to remarkable successes in solving crimes long thought unsolvable. Joining the force in 2008 and becoming a detective in 2015, Hutchison's career is a testament to the power of persistence, cutting-edge forensic science, and the collaborative effort between law enforcement and the community. Hutchison's insights into the world of cold case investigations not only shed light on the complexities and challenges of these endeavors but also celebrate the triumphs of justice achieved through dedication and innovation. This episode of Policing Matters is a compelling reminder of the impact that law enforcement officers can have on the lives of those seeking closure and the relentless pursuit of truth that defines their work. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

Axon's Moonshot initiative has an ambitious goal to drastically reduce gun-related deaths in encounters involving police officers and the public. The primary aim of the Moonshot initiative is to reduce these fatalities by 50% within 10 years. In this episode of the "Policing Matters" podcast, host Jim Dudley engages with Axon's experts to unravel the complexities of officer-involved shootings and the potential for reducing gun fatalities. Axon has initiated an ambitious project: the Axon Public Safety Gun Fatality Database. This database, a product of meticulous research and analysis in collaboration with the Institute for Intergovernmental Research (IIR), aims to provide groundbreaking insights into shooting deaths involving officers and civilians from 2021 through June 2023 across all U.S. jurisdictions. The discussion pivots on the genesis and objectives of Axon's Moonshot goal and the database. Guests Mike Wagers, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Axon, and Ty Nguyen, Senior Data Scientist, discuss the unique approach and methodology behind the database, highlighting how it stands apart from existing studies. The episode also explores the initial findings and their implications for enhancing law enforcement training, decision-making and safety. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

When called upon to use your firearm in the line of duty, you need to know that the firearm sighting and accuracy are as reliable as possible. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Chris Broomell about the balance between standardizing firearms for operational efficiency and allowing individual officers the flexibility to choose their weapons. Key topics discussed include the importance of firearm sighting and accuracy, the role of test and evaluation (T&E) programs in weapon selection, and the challenges faced by smaller agencies with limited budgets in acquiring and maintaining their firearms and safety equipment. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

Polis Solutions recently announced the commercial release of TrustStat, a multi-modal AI system for the analysis of police body-worn camera (BWC) video. TrustStat integrates three kinds of advanced AI technology to enable police agencies and communities to examine key patterns in interactions between officers and the public. Identifying these patterns empowers agencies and communities with valuable, actionable data on police-community trust and other critical public safety issues. In today’s episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Jonathan M. Wender, Ph.D., president and co-founder of Polis Solutions, about the benefits body-worn camera analysis can bring to police departments, officers and the communities they serve. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

In the realm of law enforcement, the start of a new year often brings about reflection and the pursuit of innovative approaches to age-old challenges. At the heart of this transformative period is a crucial, yet frequently overlooked aspect: budgeting and resource management within police departments. Activity-based budgeting (ABB) is a pioneering approach that intricately links police workload with financial planning. This method presents a stark contrast to traditional budget models, offering a more nuanced understanding of how resources can be allocated effectively to meet operational needs. As this concept gains traction, it promises to reshape the landscape of policing, leading to a more efficient and responsive approach in law enforcement agencies. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with the creator of activity-based budgeting for law enforcement, Dr. John Shane, a former police captain and current professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Their discussion illuminates the intricacies of ABB and its implications for law enforcement agencies. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

In the first eight months of 2023, cyberattacks against public safety agencies globally had already surpassed 2022 numbers by over 10%.   Police departments and municipalities can be an ideal target for cyber extortionists given the mission-critical nature of their work. The growing frequency and sophistication of attacks such as ransomware and hacktivism that are targeting public safety agencies highlights the need for agencies to come together on cyber threat intelligence sharing now more than ever.   In April 2022, Motorola Solutions established the Public Safety Threat Alliance (PSTA), the first Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency or CISA-recognized Information Sharing and Analysis Organization, that serves as a cyber threat intelligence hub for the global public safety community.   In this episode of Policing Matters, host Jim Dudley delves into the rising threat of cyberattacks targeting public safety agencies. With insights from Motorola Solutions' experts Jay Kaine and Tony McIntosh, the discussion highlights the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, the establishment of the Public Safety Threat Alliance (PSTA) and practical strategies for agencies to safeguard their systems. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

Since 2020, communities nationwide have seen an increase in large-scale sideshows that have endangered passers-by, the police and the participants, as well as plaguing neighborhoods with noise and associated criminal activities. In this episode of the "Policing Matters" podcast, host Jim Dudley talks to Sergeant John Ampol of the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) about the policies and training SDPD has put in place to manage sideshows, emphasizing collaboration with allied and prosecution agencies, extensive training, and enforcement strategies focusing on impounding vehicles and addressing ancillary crimes like ghost guns, drug trade and fraud. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.