Policing Matters

Crime scene investigation isn’t just the stuff of primetime TV — it’s grueling, unpredictable work that demands a tough stomach, a sharp eye and a commitment to truth. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Gabrielle Wimer, a forensic specialist for the City of Ventura, California, and host of the podcast, The Walls Do Talk. With over 13 years of crime scene experience, Gabrielle offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to walk into the aftermath of violence and begin piecing together what happened — and who’s responsible. In their conversation, Jim and Gabrielle dive into everything from her early fascination with dead bodies (spoiler: she fainted the first time she saw one) to the cutting-edge tech that helps her recreate crime scenes with stunning accuracy. They explore one particularly brutal case that hinged on a tiny speck of blood she spotted — evidence no one else saw. Gabrielle also opens up about what inspired her to launch her podcast, the surprisin

Women remain significantly underrepresented in law enforcement, especially in leadership roles. But proactive mentorship, targeted training, and authentic conversations about career and family balance can change that dynamic. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with LAPD Captain Julie Rodriguez about her journey from frontline officer to influential leader, highlighting the critical role mentorship and advocacy play in supporting women through their police careers. With nearly three decades in law enforcement, Rodriguez is a passionate advocate for women in policing, mentorship and career development. She has served on the board of the Los Angeles Women Police Officers and Associates organization (LAWPOA) and is the incoming president of the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE). Rodriguez has leveraged her personal experiences — overcoming promotional challenges, balancing motherhood and career advancement, and thriving in operational leadership

Whether responding to a medical emergency, coordinating disaster relief or ensuring officer safety in high-risk situations, public safety radio systems provide mission-critical communications that enable first responders to fulfill their missions. What does it take to ensure these systems remain functional, interoperable and adequately funded? This special episode of the Policing Matters podcast, sponsored by Kenwood, features a panel discussion on public safety radio systems. Guest host Police1 Editorial Director Greg Friese speaks with three emergency management and communications experts about the vital role of radio communications in emergency response, the obstacles agencies face in maintaining and upgrading these systems, and best practices for building a reliable network that meets the demands of modern public safety. About our sponsor This episode is sponsored by KENWOOD, a trusted leader in public safety communications. KENWOOD ATLAS P25 Systems provide reliable, secure, and flexible solutions for mi

Police officers face immense physical and mental demands on the job. Strength, endurance and overall fitness aren’t just optional — they’re essential for peak performance and long-term health. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley talks physical fitness with Dru Mejico, a 13-year law enforcement veteran with the Orange County (California) Sheriff’s Department and the founder of 911 Strong and the Fit for Duty Academy. With a background in strength and conditioning coaching, Dru has helped more than 1,000 first responders improve their fitness, lose fat and build muscle — ensuring they are ready for anything. Dru’s insights offer a roadmap for police officers looking to stay fit and perform at their best on and off duty. Connect with Dru on Instagram. 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 lexip

Police work is more than just a job — it’s a reality that shapes those who serve. And when crime fiction is penned by someone who’s lived the job, walked the beat and investigated cases, it carries a different weight. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Dave Case, a retired Chicago Police Department lieutenant who now serves as a police commander in Bridgeview, Illinois. Dave has taken his decades of real-world experience and turned it into compelling crime fiction, with his novel “Out of Cabrini” earning critical acclaim. From his time working in some of Chicago’s toughest neighborhoods to his transition into writing, Dave shares an inside look at the realities of policing and how storytelling can capture the complexities of the job. Dave’s journey from the frontlines of law enforcement to the pages of crime novels offers a unique and insightful perspective into both the realities of policing and the power of storytelling. About our sponsor This episode of the Poli

From police pursuits to community interactions, "On Patrol Live" on REELZ offers an unprecedented, real-time look at law enforcement in action. Unlike scripted crime dramas, this docuseries captures the unpredictable nature of policing, offering transparency and education for the public while fostering appreciation for officers’ split-second decision-making. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley is joined by Captain Tom Rizzo, an analyst on the show and a seasoned law enforcement leader. He shares what goes into filming “On Patrol Live,” the challenges of maintaining transparency while respecting legal and ethical boundaries, and the overwhelming public response that has reaffirmed the importance of connecting officers with their communities. "On Patrol Live" airs every Friday and Saturday night on REELZ. 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 Officer

Leading a law enforcement agency is no easy task — especially in today’s challenging climate. But Sheriff Leon Lott of Richland County, South Carolina, has cracked the code. Now in his eighth term, Lott oversees nearly 900 personnel with an annual budget of $48 million. His leadership has earned him national recognition — and built a department where officers stay, without the recruitment struggles plaguing other agencies. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Sheriff Lott to discuss the leadership strategies that keep his agency thriving, the key to officer retention, and why he believes the term “peace officer” better reflects modern policing. Sheriff Lott also shares insights from his international work, including training security forces in Iraq and his role in global crime prevention efforts through Crime Stoppers. Richland County is also one of the agencies featured on “On Patrol: Live,” a reality show that gives viewers a firsthand look at law enforcement in ac

The use of force by law enforcement remains one of the most scrutinized and debated aspects of policing. While officers receive extensive training on force applications, public perception and policy shifts often reshape how they can respond to threats. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Joshua Coleman, vice president of the California Force Instructors Association (CALFIA), about the importance of evidence-based training, legislative challenges and why officers often find themselves caught between policy expectations and real-world dangers. In the discussion, Coleman explains why CALFIA was founded, the challenges of navigating force policies in a post-2020 landscape and how California's legislative changes have impacted officers' decision-making in critical incidents. He also highlights how misconceptions about techniques like the carotid restraint have led to policy decisions that, while well-intentioned, may ultimately put both officers and suspects at greater risk

In an era where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, law enforcement agencies are grappling with how to integrate new tools effectively. Drones, real time crime centers, artificial intelligence and digital forensics are reshaping the landscape of policing, offering agencies the ability to process vast amounts of data, enhance situational awareness and improve officer decision-making. But adopting new technology isn't just about purchasing the latest gadget — it requires a shift in mindset, policies and training. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Eric Wood, former IT director for the Chula Vista (California) Police Department and now security and compliance manager at Peregrine, to discuss how law enforcement can navigate these challenges and maximize the potential of emerging technology. Wood shares insights into the technological advancements that are redefining modern policing and the critical role of AI and data integration in streamlining law enfor

  Police recruitment and retention have become two of the biggest challenges facing law enforcement today. Agencies across the country struggle to attract qualified candidates and keep them engaged, while leadership gaps and cultural stagnation exacerbate the issue. But one department is proving that building a strong agency isn’t about flashy incentives or temporary hiring sprees — it’s about culture.   In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Hermosa Beach Police Chief Paul LeBaron and retired Air Force Colonel Rick Poplin about how their department has not only achieved full staffing but has also created a leadership pipeline that ensures officers are engaged, supported and set up for long-term success.   Chief Paul LeBaron took over the Hermosa Beach Police Department during one of the most challenging times in modern history: the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Facing staffing shortages, a fractured internal culture and community mistrust, he knew that traditional

  The debate over police officer education requirements has been ongoing for decades, but today, it's more pressing than ever. With some states mandating a college degree for police officers, agencies face law enforcement hiring challenges, balancing police recruitment needs with preparing officers for the evolving demands of the profession. Does a college degree for police officers produce better decision-making and leadership, or does it create unnecessary police recruitment challenges in an already difficult hiring environment? In this episode of Policing Matters, host Jim Dudley speaks with Officer Hunter Panning, a school resource officer in Chaska, Minnesota, who has extensively researched law enforcement hiring, police leadership, and the impact of higher education on officer performance. Panning, who holds a master’s degree in public administration and is pursuing a doctorate in leadership and adult learning, shares key insights into how police officer education requirements affect decision-making, us

Public safety agencies are evolving, and one of the most impactful shifts is the integration of civilian professionals into leadership and operational roles. While police officers and firefighters bring critical field expertise, civilian leaders contribute specialized knowledge in management, technology, finance and strategy — helping agencies run more effectively. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with experts from law enforcement agencies across the country to discuss the growing role of civilian leadership in public safety. We explore how civilian leadership is shaping modern policing, the benefits of professional staff in command positions, and practical ways agencies can enhance recruitment, retention and training for non-sworn personnel. About our sponsor eSOPH is a secure, cloud-based, pre-employment background investigation software system designed specifically for public safety agencies. Used by hundreds of agencies nationwide, eSOPH has been credited with cut

In a special crossover edition of Police1’s Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley joins forces with Aaron Zamzow, a firefighter from Madison, Wisconsin, and host of FireRescue1’s Better Every Shift podcast, to explore the critical intersections of police and fire department roles during emergencies. From the recent wildfires in California to active shooter scenarios, their conversation highlights the importance of cross-agency communication, training and shared resources to address evolving public safety challenges. 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.

Technology is changing the game in public safety. From smart city tools to real-time crime centers, police departments are using innovations like IoT devices, drones and advanced analytics to stay one step ahead. These high-tech solutions don’t just help solve crimes faster — they also make officers’ jobs safer and strengthen connections with the communities they protect. By combining modern tools with teamwork across agencies, law enforcement is finding smarter, more effective ways to keep neighborhoods safe. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley dives into this tech-driven transformation with Lieutenant Sean Riley, commander of Glendale Police Department’s Real-Time Intelligence Center. Riley shares how integrating IoT devices into city infrastructure has redefined public safety in Glendale, improving efficiency, response times and trust within the community. Riley details Glendale’s experience in building a Real-Time Intelligence Center from the ground up in just 10 months. From

Campus police departments serve as both protectors and partners, ensuring university safety while engaging deeply with the campus community. These agencies address unique challenges, from advanced training to diverse recruitment strategies, making them leaders in law enforcement innovation. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, Chief Brent Plisch from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department, and Major Steven Luce and Officer Abby Gambrell from the Indiana University Police Department, share their experiences and perspectives on campus law enforcement. From implementing advanced training programs and fostering a sense of purpose in recruits to leveraging mentorship and technology, they discuss what it takes to attract, train and retain officers in the ever-evolving landscape of university law enforcement. 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 OfficerSto

The recent murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan has sparked widespread discussion on the importance of private security and executive protection. While the tragedy raises questions about situational awareness and risk management, it also highlights the growing demand for skilled professionals in the security sector. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Chuck Andrews, a former law enforcement officer turned corporate security expert with over 40 years of experience, to unpack the complexities of executive protection and its intersection with law enforcement. 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.

Policing is one of the most demanding professions and advancing through the ranks comes with unique challenges, particularly for women in law enforcement. Retired Assistant Sheriff Sasha Larkin brings decades of experience to this conversation. From managing sleepless nights to building community trust during critical moments, Larkin exemplifies what it takes to thrive in a high-pressure environment. Now, as the Director of Intelligence for FIFA’s World Cup events, she shares her journey and offers actionable advice on leadership, career advancement and retirement planning for police officers. After retiring in May 2024 following a 25-year career with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Larkin reflects on her role as Assistant Sheriff, where she spearheaded efforts in community engagement, counterterrorism and leadership development. In her discussion with Policing Matters podcast host Jim Dudley, Larkin explores the complexities of law enforcement leadership, the significance of resilience and the

  Leadership is the cornerstone of any successful law enforcement agency, especially in a dynamic and challenging era. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley engages with Chief Troy Weisler of the New Mexico State Police to discuss how leadership drives operational success, builds trust within the ranks and connects officers with the communities they serve. From strategic police recruitment initiatives to mentorship programs, Chief Weisler provides a roadmap for fostering resilience, innovation and excellence in policing. About our sponsor eSOPH is a secure, cloud-based, pre-employment background investigation software system designed specifically for public safety agencies. Used by hundreds of agencies nationwide, eSOPH has been credited with cutting the time it takes to process a pre-employment background investigation by up to 50%, saving agencies significant time, money, and resources without sacrificing investigation quality. For more information, go to eSOPH.com.

Real-Time Crime Centers (RTCCs) are transforming how law enforcement agencies approach crime prevention and response. These centralized hubs leverage technology such as drones, automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and gunshot detection systems to provide officers with real-time data and situational awareness. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Major Patrick Krieg of the Dunwoody Police Department about his experience integrating advanced technologies into law enforcement operations and the recent launch of the agency’s RTCC. About our sponsor Flock Safety's full-service, maintenance-free products, like license plate readers, gunshot detection technology, video cameras, and real-time policing solutions, are trusted by more than 5,000 communities across the country to help solve and deter crime in the pursuit of safer communities for everyone. Flock's products are driven by a shift toward intelligent, real-time policing. Dive more into this world in Flock's new podca

This year has been a transformative year for law enforcement, marked by unprecedented challenges and critical turning points. From navigating thinning ranks to addressing societal and institutional pressures, officers have faced extraordinary demands. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley welcomes Tom Gandy, host of the War Stories podcast, to reflect on the defining moments of the year. Together, they explore evolving public perceptions of policing, the morale crisis among officers, and the pressing need to strengthen support for those on the front lines. Tom Gandy brings a wealth of frontline experience to the conversation. As a former patrol officer, field training officer, narcotics detective, and use-of-force expert, Gandy has firsthand insights into the realities of law enforcement. Through his War Stories podcast, he has created a platform for officers, veterans and first responders to share their untold experiences. In this episode, Gandy candidly discusses the morale challe