The Detectives Podcast

Why do violent and other serious offenders sometimes end up with fan clubs? In this episode, Dave and Steve examine why certain suspects and convicted individuals attract romantic or sexual attention across genders. They explore what that fascination reveals about psychology, media culture, and modern true crime consumption. From infamous killers to viral mugshots and online fandoms, they explore how trials become content, offenders turn into characters, and victims risk becoming background noise.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dave and Steve break down the crime of scams. What legally separates scams, fraud, theft, and bad business deals, and why many situations that feel criminal end up being civil matters. They explain why these distinctions matter, why victims often feel dismissed, and why some of the most damaging scams never result in criminal charges.They also walk through why scams are so difficult to investigate, including international suspects, spoofed numbers, money mules, disappearing digital evidence, and highly organized operations designed to move faster than law enforcement. The episode covers common scams being seen today, why smart people fall for them, and practical steps to reduce your risk and respond quickly if it happens to you.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesResources:Home Page - Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)https://reportfraud.ftc.govhttps://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scamshttps://www.usa.gov/where-report-scamshttps://www.consumerfinance.gov/complainthttps://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-centralhttps://www.idtheftcenter.orgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dave and Steve break down the realities of the job the public rarely sees and applicants aren’t always told about. They discuss the pressures, delays, and limitations that shape police work every day, along with how those realities impact investigations, officers, and the people they serve.They discuss the mental and emotional toll of the work, internal stressors within departments, public perception, and why demonizing the profession has real consequences. This isn’t about negativity, it’s about realism, accountability, and having honest conversations about an incredibly difficult job that’s expected to be done perfectly.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“No body” cases are some of the hardest homicide investigations to build and prosecute. In this episode, Dave and Steve explain what makes these cases different, why investigators assume death early, and how circumstantial evidence becomes decisive when there’s no body.Using real-world examples, including references to the Brian Walshe case, they break down the must-dos: proving the victim is dead, building a clean timeline, establishing motive, leveraging forensic and digital evidence, and reading post-crime behavior. They also cover common mistakes that sink no-body cases and why prosecutors are often reluctant to take them to trial.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSources:https://www.wafb.com/2025/12/18/brian-walshe-sentenced-life-prison-murdering-his-wife-nearly-3-years-ago/https://people.com/brian-walshe-learns-fate-for-murdering-wife-11872065https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/15/metro/brian-walshe/https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/brian-walshe-verdict-murder-trial-ana/https://abcnews.go.com/US/brian-walshe-set-sentenced-murdering-dismembering-wife/story?id=128457191https://apnews.com/article/brian-walshe-wife-murder-trial-sentencing-b0918da02db8a1da147dd215dbf68260See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re kicking off 2026 with our first Squad Meeting of the year and wishing everyone a Happy New Year.We talk about our personal goals for the year, including fitness, mental health, and making time for travel and life outside the job. We also look ahead at what’s coming in 2026 for the podcast, including continued Bibb County trial coverage, legislative developments, and other cases we’re keeping an eye on.We share updates on upcoming series, CrimeCon Las Vegas in May 2026, Patreon perks, recent merch giveaways, and our new Team Dave and Team Steve shirts. We wrap things up by thanking our listeners and Patreon supporters for an incredible 2025 and looking forward to what’s ahead in 2026.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Part III of Bunker in Bibb, Dave and Steve sit down with Alabama State Representative, Matt Simpson who proposed legislation that would allow the death penalty in cases involving the sexual abuse of children under the age of 12.Representative Simpson discusses his background as a prosecutor, what motivated the proposed bill, and how lawmakers think through penalty structures, constitutional precedent, and public safety concerns. The conversation also addresses difficult but necessary topics, including victim reporting, family-related abuse, prosecutorial discretion, and how collaboration across disciplines can better protect the most vulnerable.Drawing from their experience as detectives, Dave and Steve explore how legislation intersects with real-world investigations, prosecutions, and community resources. The discussion covers investigative realities, funding challenges, training needs, digital forensics, and policy decisions.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Part II of Bunker in Bibb, Dave and Steve return with a focused update on the ongoing investigation and criminal case unfolding in Bibb County, Alabama.Since the first episode, additional charges have been filed, court hearings have taken place, and new details have emerged through testimony and court records. The detectives break down where the case currently stands, including bond decisions under Aniah’s Law, upcoming trial timelines, and what investigators have shared about the scope of the alleged abuse.They also discuss how complex child trafficking and sexual abuse investigations are built, why the absence of certain types of evidence does not end a case, and how digital evidence, confessions, forensic interviews, and corroborating details factor into long-term prosecutions.If you have information related to this case, contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 205-926-4683.If you or someone you know needs help, the Sexual Abuse Hotline is available at 1-800-656-4673.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSources:https://www.wbrc.com/2025/10/08/federal-investigators-probe-gang-link-bibb-county-child-sex-trafficking-casehttps://abc3340.com/news/local/judge-orders-mental-evaluation-in-bibb-county-bunker-casehttps://abc3340.com/news/local/trial-date-set-for-suspects-charged-in-bibb-county-bunker-casehttps://www.wsfa.com/2025/08/15/many-20-more-suspects-could-be-wanted-bibb-county-child-sex-abuse-ring/https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2025/08/02/underground-bunker-arrests-pushing-alabama-lawmakers-call-death-penalty-child-rape-cases/https://www.wvtm13.com/article/alabama-bunker-bibb-county-brent-child-sex-ring-trafficking/65498959See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this K9 Roll Call episode, Dave and Steve sit down with Officer Gilpin from the University of Notre Dame Police Department to meet Barkley, a vapor-wake explosive detection dog with serious skills and plenty of personality.Officer Gilpin shares how he got into K9 work, the transition from his retired partner Toxy to Barkley, and why vapor-wake detection plays a critical role in public safety. The conversation breaks down how vapor-wake dogs work, what deployments look like in real time, and what civilians often don’t notice while a K9 team is working a crowd.They also dive into training, wellness, public interaction, life at home, and the realities of being a handler. The episode wraps with a fun rapid-fire “Barkley vs. Toxy” round that shows just how different working dogs can be.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dave and Steve explore the foundational principle of death investigations: treat every death like a homicide until it isn’t. Using the 2011 death of Ellen Greenberg as a case reference, they walk through the steps investigators typically take in unattended deaths and why beginning with the broadest possible approach protects the integrity of any final determination.The conversation highlights how questions, doubts, and public confusion often arise when early investigative steps aren’t fully documented or clearly understood. By examining widely discussed points surrounding this case — from scene processing to medical classifications and evidence preservation — Dave and Steve illustrate how thorough initial procedure helps prevent uncertainty later on, regardless of the ultimate manner of death.They also share The Detective’s Ten Commandments of Unattended Deaths, explaining how these guidelines support clarity, transparency, and trust in any investigation. The goal isn’t to judge past decisions, but to show how starting wide, staying neutral, and documenting everything ensures that the truth whatever it is can be confidently supported.Philadelphia Office of the Medical Examiner autopsy report for Ellen Greenberghttps://crimetimelines.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ellen-Rae-Greenberg-Autopsy-January-26-2011.pdfReview of Philadelphia MEO case 11-0420 (Ellen Greenberg)”https://dig.abclocal.go.com/wpvi/pdf/101325-wpvi-ellen-greenberg-death-dr-simon-review-PDF.pdfhttps://www.lambmcerlane.com/news/fighting-chance-for-parents-in-ellen-greenberg-civil-suit-judge-says-lamb-mcerlane-partner-joe-podraza-the-attorney-for-the-greenbergs-quoted/Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to our December Squad Meeting! In this episode, we sit down and look back at our unbelievable 2025 journey. From launching The Detectives Podcast in July to everything that’s happened since. We talk about how much we’ve learned along the way, and the incredible support from our listeners and Patreon subscribers.We also share stories from our recent trip to Mexico celebrating Steve’s birthday, including behind-the-scenes moments, and a few surprises. From there, we dive into conversations about our latest episodes, clear up some listener questions, and finish with an update on where things stand with our Cross Examined series, and what’s coming next.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Part II of this listener-requested episode picks up where the patrol journey ends and the detective path begins. Dave and Steve explore what happens when an officer decides they’re ready to enter criminal investigations and take the next step in their career.They break down the two ways officers typically become detectives, direct appointment or a competitive promotional process. They offer practical tips on how officers can set themselves apart from their peers, build a reputation for investigative thinking, and position themselves as the obvious choice for a detective promotion.From there, the conversation turns to the many types of investigative units officers can pursue and what it means to make the shift from patrol to a detective mindset. Dave and Steve discuss the importance of working with a strong team, learning from experienced detectives, and embracing the specialized trainings, certifications, and continuing education opportunities. They also touch on how college degrees can help aspiring detectives excel and explain why making mistakes is inevitable and essential in this profession.The episode doesn’t shy away from the hard realities of detective work: late-night callouts, the emotional weight of victim-centered investigations, shift demands, and the mental health toll that comes with the job. Dave and Steve also highlight the rewards of solving cases, helping victims and families, and knowing that your work leaves a real impact on the world.Despite every challenge, both hosts share why they love the job and why neither can imagine doing anything else. They close the episode by exploring ways civilians can contribute to investigative work without becoming sworn police officers or attending the academy.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Part I of this listener requested two-part episode explores how someone actually becomes a detective and answers the question of whether someone can bypass patrol and jump straight into investigations. Dave and Steve walk through the journey from the very beginning, starting with the decision to go into law enforcement itself. They talk about why this profession requires calling, purpose, and personal drive rather than money, status, or what people see in movies or television. They also explain why internships and job shadow opportunities with multiple agencies at different times of the year can make a huge difference in understanding if this work is truly for you.From there, they break down the path toward the academy, including minimum requirements, the application process, oral interviews, written exams, physical testing, polygraphs, psychological evaluations, background investigations, and more. They share stories from their own academy experiences and offer advice for surviving it and succeeding once you get there. The conversation continues into the Field Training Officer phase, where new officers learn to apply everything in the real world on patrol.Dave and Steve discuss why new officers can’t just jump directly into being detectives right out of the academy, and how the patrol years shape, develop, and prepare officers for investigative work. They share what officers can do on patrol to set themselves apart, earn trust, and begin positioning themselves for detective opportunities.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special Thanksgiving-week episode, Dave and Steve open up about what it’s really like to spend the holiday as a police officer and a detective. From eating Thanksgiving dinner in a patrol car to getting called out to crime scenes instead of gathering with family. They share the challenges, and the unexpected peaceful moments that come with working holidays.The guys also dive into everything they’re thankful for this year: their families, friends, coworkers, and their incredible listeners and Patreon members who make The Detectives Podcast possible. They explore the unique bond that forms among detectives through shared trauma and the intensity of the work, and they give heartfelt thanks to the lesser-known people behind the scenes who keep the wheels turning on every investigation.They wrap things up with some fun as they talk about the members of their investigative squad—what each detective brings professionally, and, of course, what they’d bring to the table at a Thanksgiving feast.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave and Steve dive into the wild world of animal encounters on duty. From deer appearing out of nowhere to run-ins with raccoons, opossums, and all kinds of critters, the guys share some of their funniest and strangest stories from the field. They even talk about the legendary tale of Dave’s pigeon case.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this Squad Meeting, we break down the launch of our K9 Roll Call series, and talk about how great it was having DPA Alex and K9 Roger join us on the show. We also talk about some of the upcoming types of K9s listeners will get to meet as this series continues forward.Next, we revisit our very first live stream and how much fun it was. We had a blast hanging out with everyone and the conversation took some wild turns more than once. We also go over our other Patreon exclusive series, Cross Examined, where listeners can come on the podcast and directly interview us. Anyone interested in our live streams or Cross Examined can join us at www.patreon.com/thedetectivesFinally…the moment many have been waiting for…we announce the 10 winners randomly selected from our giveaway! Each winner will receive an email where they can pick a Detectives Podcast t-shirt or mug and we’ll ship it out to them.We can’t thank everyone enough for listening, supporting the show, and leaving such incredible comments and feedback. It means the world to us and we’re excited for everything ahead.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave and Steve take listeners on a journey through nearly a thousand years of policing history. They begin with the origins of the badge, tracing its symbolism back to medieval heraldry and shields. Then they move into Old English sheriffs under common law, night watchmen, and the creation of the first organized police department in Boston.From there they explore how the American detective emerged from private investigation, focusing on Allan Pinkerton, the Pinkerton National Detective Agency, and how his methods influenced investigative work still used today. They also dive into the rise of federal investigative power, the creation of the Secret Service, U.S. Marshals, and the FBI, and how the government responded to the rise in interstate crime.The conversation continues into the television age as public perception shifts with shows like Dragnet. They discuss the impact of the War on Drugs and landmark Supreme Court rulings such as Mapp v. Ohio and Miranda v. Arizona that permanently changed how detectives gather evidence and conduct interviews. They close by examining the technological era with DNA, digital forensics, and modern policing, reflecting on how the mission of detective work has remained the same even as the tools and crimes have evolved dramatically. Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSources:https://www.theemblemauthority.com/the-history-and-significance-of-the-police-badgeEncyclopedia Britannica | BritannicaThe National ArchivesHistory – Boston Police DepartmentThe Unsuccessful Plot to Kill Abraham LincolnHistory — FBIhttps://www.fbi.gov/history/brief-historyHistoryhttps://www.theodorerooseveltcenter.org/exclusionary rule | Wex | US Law | LII / Legal Information InstituteMiranda v. Arizona | 384 U.S. 436 (1966) | Justia U.S. Supreme Court CenterUCLA Film & Television Archivehttps://www.dhs.gov/fusion-centersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dave and Steve pull back the curtain on the language of law enforcement—10-codes, signals, and the everyday jargon used on job. They kick things off with a mock example of an officer and dispatcher speaking entirely in code before breaking down what those codes actually mean, where they came from, and why they sound like a foreign language to anyone outside policing. They share how different agencies use different codes, and why so many departments are now shifting toward plain English on the radio. Also, they dive into detective jargon and the everyday terminology detectives use. Finally, they discuss how this shared language becomes a form of bonding within the profession.Connect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the first episode of The Detectives Podcast mini-series K9 Roll Call, Dave and Steve are joined by Alex, a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney who also serves as the handler for Roger, a highly trained electronic device detection K9. Roger’s job is unlike any other, he searches for hidden electronic devices such as cell phones, SD cards, USB drives, hard drives, computers, and more often uncovering evidence that even detectives can miss.Alex shares how Roger is trained, what he’s actually smelling for, and how his alerts help investigators find critical digital evidence. He also discusses his unique dual role as both a DPA and K9 handler, how he was chosen for the position, and the close bond he and Roger share.Listeners will hear how Roger’s nose has helped locate lost students, recover devices after fatal crashes, and even crack criminal cases. To wrap things up, Dave and Steve put Roger’s skills to the test with a live training exercise in the studio.Tippecanoe County Elected Prosecutor: Patrick Harringtonhttps://tcprosecutor.comRoger’s Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/esd_k9_roger/Owner & Trainer Jordan Detection K9: Todd Jordanhttps://www.jordandetectionk9.comK9 Sponsor: OUR Rescuehttps://ourrescue.org/esd-k9-programConnect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dave and Steve sit down with Dr. Kelly Dardeen, a clinical psychologist specializing in first responders. Together, they take a deep dive into the mental health challenges and trauma detectives and officers face throughout their careers.Dr. Dardeen shares how she began her work in trauma therapy, from her early days with the VA to her current role supporting 30 first responder agencies. She explains what makes trauma in law enforcement unique, why officers can’t simply “leave work at work,” and what civilians often misunderstand about the psychological toll of the job.The conversation explores the warning signs of trauma, how repeated exposure to humanity’s darkest moments impacts ethical decision-making, and the role dark humor plays in coping. They also confront the persistent stigma surrounding mental health therapy in policing and discuss how breaking that stigma can save lives and careers.Resources & Support:https://www.mofirstresponders.org/firstresponder-resourcesRESPONDERSTRONG - ResponderStrongNational Helpline for Mental Health, Drug, Alcohol Issues | SAMHSAConnect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In part III of The War We Owe Them, Dave and Steve interview Lori Cohen, CEO of PACT (Protect All Children from Trafficking), a nonprofit working to end child trafficking and sexual exploitation in the United States and around the world. Lori explains what trafficking is, what it is not, and why every child has the fundamental right to grow up free from sexual exploitation.Lori shares real cases from her career, outlines new tactics used to target kids online, and details how gaming platforms and social media are being weaponized by predators. She provides concrete steps for parents and everyday citizens, early warning signs to watch for, guidance on how to support victims, and a reminder that protecting children must be a national priority.Lori also explains the policy landscape, including PACT’s role in advancing legislation, the need to enforce existing laws, closing tech immunity loopholes, and the funding shortfalls that hinder prevention and response.PACT Website: https://www.wearepact.orgPACT Online Safety Guides: https://www.wearepact.org/guidesPACT Donation Page: https://www.wearepact.org/donateConnect with The Detectives Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thedetectivespodcastJoin us on Patreon for early access, ad-free episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/thedetectivesShop official merch: https://www.tritonpublishing.net/thedetectivespodcastDirectly support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedetectivesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.