Policing Matters

  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

At a time when law enforcement faces unprecedented recruitment challenges, agencies often struggle to attract and retain candidates who embody the right mix of skills, values and emotional intelligence. While some departments rely on traditional methods, the Rochester Police Department (RPD) in New York has taken a bold and innovative approach. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Sergeant Justin Collins, a veteran officer and director of RPD's Police Recruitment and Workforce Development, about the dynamic program he has created that not only recruits candidates but prepares them to succeed while fostering community connections. This program allows potential police officer candidates to participate in training and community engagement opportunities in preparation for the police exam. Initially designed to keep candidates engaged and create realistic expectations of the duties of a police officer, the program has evolved to include strategies designed to increase repres

As law enforcement faces significant challenges in recruitment and retention, understanding generational shifts has never been more critical. With Gen Z officers entering the workforce, police leaders are navigating the unique traits and expectations of this new cohort. This generation, shaped by technology, a need for meaningful work, and a different approach to risk and resilience, requires fresh perspectives on training and leadership. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Dr. Janay Gasparini about how agencies can evolve to meet these demands. Gasparini, a police officer, former field training officer (FTO) and police training expert, is at the forefront of these conversations. She co-authored with Jim Dudley, “Recruitment and Retention of Gen-Z Law Enforcement Officers,” which tackles pressing topics such as the importance of adaptive recruitment methods, the impact of generational traits on training and strategies for fostering resilience among new officers. About

Traffic stops are one of the most common points of interaction between police and community members, yet they can be fraught with misunderstanding, fear and tension. This disconnect has fueled mistrust and, in some cases, escalated into conflict. Recognizing the urgent need to address these challenges, Dwayne Bryant wrote “The Stop: Improving Police and Community Relations.” In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley talks to Bryant about the inspiration behind his book and strategies to build trust, and create safer, more constructive encounters during traffic stops. 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 constantly evolving world of law enforcement, connecting police officers with the latest research is crucial for effective, evidence-based decision-making. Yet, traditional academic publications are often inaccessible, both in cost and in technical language. Applied Police Briefings (APB) steps in to bridge this gap, providing law enforcement with free, practical and concise summaries of cutting-edge research. By transforming academic findings into easily digestible briefs, APB empowers officers and departments to stay informed and apply data-driven strategies in their everyday duties. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with APB founders Craig Bennell and Kirk Luther about their mission to make police-relevant research accessible and impactful. Both established academics and passionate advocates for evidence-based policing, Bennell and Luther saw firsthand how critical findings were failing to reach those in the field. Through APB, they’re addressing this need by cu

In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, we explore the groundbreaking work of the FBI Behavioral Science Unit. Host Jim Dudley interviews retired FBI agent Jana Monroe, who shares her expertise in serial killer profiling and her experience consulting on notorious cold cases in her book, “Heart of Darkness.” Monroe, who is known as the real-life inspiration for Clarice Starling in “Silence of the Lambs,” discusses advancements in forensic science and the importance of ethics in true crime media. As one of the first female agents in the FBI Behavioral Science Unit – now known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit – Jana Monroe was involved in over 850 homicide investigations, helping shape FBI profiling techniques used today. 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.

As the 2024 election draws near, critical issues that directly affect law enforcement are taking center stage in national discussions. Crime reporting, immigration, drug cartels and public safety reforms are just some of the key topics that could see dramatic changes depending on the outcome. In this special election episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley and retired New York State Police Investigator and Professor Terrence Dwyer delve into how the 2024 election might impact policing in America. The conversation covers a wide range of critical issues, including the handling of ghost guns and red flag laws, the consequences of a porous border and drug cartels, and the role of executive orders in shaping law enforcement policies. Dwyer shares his extensive experience as a former investigator and current professor to offer insights into how officers are coping with staffing shortages, crime trends and public safety reforms. The discussion highlights the pressing need for changes in crime report

Police1’s "What Cops Want in 2024" survey focused on officer wellness and behavioral health. This year’s findings reveal the profound impact of mental wellness struggles among law enforcement officers, with many reporting issues such as sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress. The survey brings attention to the widespread effects of work-related stress, including alarming rates of suicidal thoughts and burnout. The results emphasize the pressing need for comprehensive wellness initiatives within police departments to help officers manage the emotional and psychological toll of their demanding roles. In this episode of Policing Matters, host Jim Dudley sits down with Dr. David Black, founder of Cordico and Lexipol's president of Wellness Solutions and a leading expert in law enforcement wellness and mental health, to discuss the findings from the "What Cops Want" survey. With nearly 3,000 officers responding, the survey sheds light on the pressing wellness issues impacting law enforce

In today’s rapidly evolving public safety landscape, drones are emerging as indispensable tools for law enforcement and emergency response. From reducing response times during natural disasters to providing real-time aerial intelligence at crime scenes, drones are transforming the way agencies handle critical incidents. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Adam Bry, CEO and co-founder of Skydio, a leader in autonomous drone technology. Bry discusses the groundbreaking developments in Skydio’s X10 platform, the role of drones as first responders (DFR), and how agencies like the NYPD are leveraging beyond visual line-of-sight operations to enhance real-time crime response. From extreme weather capabilities to improving community transparency through aerial footage, Bry shares his vision for the future of drones in law enforcement and how Skydio is pioneering these advancements. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by Skydio. Learn mo

Serial killers fascinate the public, but behind every infamous case lies a network of law enforcement officers, journalists and communities grappling with the horror. True crime stories like those of Ted Bundy, Son of Sam and Jeffrey Dahmer continue to captivate audiences. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Anne E. Schwartz, the journalist who first reported on the Jeffrey Dahmer case, to recount her experiences during the investigation. Having covered night shifts on the crime beat, Schwartz was the first on the scene and had unparalleled access to the detectives and officers who uncovered Dahmer’s atrocities. In this conversation, she offers insight into the challenges of reporting such a case, the psychological toll on law enforcement, and why, decades later, the public remains fascinated by true crime. Schwartz also addresses the portrayal of Dahmer in the media, including the controversial Netflix series, and offers a candid perspective on the real events behind

The tragic issue of officer suicide continues to challenge law enforcement agencies nationwide. In recent years, the focus on mental health support within the law enforcement community has intensified, leading to strategies like peer support programs and trauma-focused therapies. By understanding the contributing factors — such as accumulated trauma, organizational stress and personal challenges — agencies can develop comprehensive solutions that address the mental wellness of officers, from recruitment to retirement. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Matt Walsh, Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), who shares his vast experience on the topic of law enforcement suicide. Walsh discusses the groundbreaking data collection efforts by FDLE, which are shedding new light on the true scale of officer suicides. He also highlights FDLE's proactive approaches, such as peer support programs and trauma-focused therapy, aimed at reducing

This episode was recorded at Axon Week 2024. Axon Week 2025 will take place April 22-25 in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at https://www.axonweek.com/. In this special episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley talks with Thi Luu, vice president and general manager of virtual reality for Axon, and Andy Wrenn, head of training for Axon, during Axon Week 2024. The three meet to discuss a standout innovation: a self-contained, portable virtual reality (VR) training pod designed to address the common challenge of limited training space. Axon VR includes specialized controllers that simulate the TASER 10, TASER 7 and even a handgun, offering officers a realistic training experience. This setup enables officers to practice with true-to-life weapons in various scenarios, from static targets to dynamic, fast-moving situations. The VR range allows for extensive, cost-effective practice, providing invaluable experience in deploying TASER energy weapons on moving targets and under different conditions, which

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is increasingly recognized as an essential skill in policing, transforming how officers interact with their communities, manage high-pressure situations, and take care of their mental health. At its core, emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, manage and effectively express one’s emotions while navigating interpersonal relationships. For law enforcement, this skill can make the difference between de-escalating a tense encounter and letting it spiral into conflict. By improving self-awareness, social awareness and relationship management, emotional intelligence training is helping officers make better decisions under stress, communicate more effectively with their teams and the public, and improve overall well-being on and off the job. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley interviews Gregory Campbell, Ph.D., a federal law enforcement veteran and emotional intelligence expert, about the profound impact emotional intelligence can have on polici

This episode was recorded at Axon Week 2024. Axon Week 2025 will take place April 22-25 in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at https://www.axonweek.com/. In this special episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley interviews Noah Spitzer-Williams, senior principal product manager of generative AI at Axon, about the company's new tool, Draft One, at Axon Week 2024. This tool, Spitzer-Williams tells Dudley, can significantly reduce the time officers spend on paperwork. The conversation dives into the capabilities of Draft One, its potential impact on officer efficiency and morale and the future possibilities for this technology in policing. For a behind-the-scenes look, visit this Policing Matters podcast article on Police1.com/policing-matters to see Jim and Noah in person! About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Axon, a global leader in public safety technology. To learn more about Axon's ecosystem of hardware and software products for policing defense and

Animal-related incidents, whether cases of neglect, cruelty or dangerous wildlife, can catch even seasoned law enforcement officers off guard. When responding to such cases, officers are often thrust into challenging situations, with limited resources and training on how to manage these unique encounters. Addressing these gaps, the Humane Society’s Law Enforcement Training Center offers crucial guidance for officers to navigate these scenarios safely and effectively. This training empowers officers to recognize and respond to animal cruelty, fighting rings, and wildlife-related incidents, helping protect both the community and the animals involved. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with retired Chief Trevor Whipple, now a trainer with the Humane Society’s Law Enforcement Training Center, about the complexities of animal crime investigations. The episode highlights how proper training can help officers safely manage dangerous animals, gather evidence for prosecutions, and

This episode was recorded at Axon Week 2024. Axon Week 2025 will take place April 22-25 in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at https://www.axonweek.com/. Please note that the first five minutes of this episode features a visual drone demonstration. To view the video of this, visit https://www.police1.com/drones/police1-reports-from-axon-week-the-evolution-of-law-enforcement-with-drone-technology. In this special episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley talks with Adam Bry, CEO of Skydio, and City of Miami Beach Police Department Sergeant Anthony Loperfido about the revolutionary role of drones in modern law enforcement. The discussion, recorded live at Axon Week 2024 in Miami Beach, delves into the capabilities of Skydio’s latest X10 drone, designed with direct feedback from public safety professionals. They explore how these advanced drones are transforming police operations, from providing real-time aerial intelligence to enabling autonomous, remote-controlled missions that can significantly enh

Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs are rapidly transforming public safety by providing police departments with advanced tools to enhance their response capabilities. These programs allow drones to be deployed immediately when a call for service comes in, arriving on scene before officers to provide crucial real-time aerial views. As DFR programs continue to evolve, they are revolutionizing emergency response, offering quicker, more efficient situational awareness and improving outcomes in critical incidents. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, we dive into how Fremont, California, is leading the way with a joint police and fire DFR program. By collaborating across departments, Fremont’s DFR initiative is transforming emergency response times and enhancing situational awareness for both police and firefighters. Host Jim Dudley interviews three key members of the Fremont DFR program: Lieutenant Heidi Kindorf and Sergeant Ken Kwok from the Fremont Police Department, and Deputy Fire Chief Heathe

This episode was recorded at Axon Week 2024. Axon Week 2025 will take place April 22-25 in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at https://www.axonweek.com/. In this special episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Rick Smith, the visionary founder of Axon, formerly known as TASER International. Smith talks about the advancements discussed during Axon Week, including the TASER 10, virtual reality-based training and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on policing. The conversation delves into how these innovations are poised to enhance officer safety, increase efficiency and reduce critical incidents. With real-world examples and insights, Smith explains the journey from early TASERs to the latest TASER 10, emphasizing its potential to outperform traditional firearms. The episode also explores how virtual reality is revolutionizing training methods, making them more effective and accessible. Additionally, the discussion covers AI tools like Draft One, which streamline re