Precinct 444: The National Law Enforcement Museum Podcast

On this episode of Lifeline, we're joined by Deputy Director of OSW Programs, Matt Garcia, and Dennis Nayor, Adjunct Professor for the Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership Master's Degree Program at the University of San Diego, with more than 25 years of law enforcement experience. The conversation focuses on the general nature of trauma experienced by law enforcement officers, the impact of unprocessed trauma on officers' mental and physical health, and the challenges of retirement a...

On this episode of Encore, we're revisiting "Changemakers of Law Enforcement: Post-9/11 Exhibit Series", which was released in September of 2021, brought together the "changemakers" who helped the country move forward following the September 11th attacks.The response to the challenges brought by the 9/11 attacks—or, in some cases, simply illuminated by the attacks—needed law enforcement leaders willing to innovate and answer the call of duty. By speaking to a selection of these changemakers t...

On this very special episode of Lifeline, we take another look at mindfulness practices as a way to address traumatic memories and flashbacks as they may related to the September 11th attacks. Many officers state that as a result of post traumatic stress induced events, they experience bouts of anxiety and crippling depression, which can result in unhealthy compensatory mechanisms such as substance abuse, or even suicide.We welcomed back Mary Petto, the Memorial Fund's Chief Marketing and Cor...

In the early morning hours of June 3, 2011, IU sophomore Lauren Spierer disappeared as she headed home from a friend’s apartment in Bloomington, Indiana. In. The 13 years since Lauren’s disappearance, her case continues to vex investigators and IU students alike. On today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we will discuss the disappearance of Lauren Spierer and some of the most logical theories that have arisen regarding her disappearance. https://nleomf.org/museum/precinct-444/

On this episode of Lifeline, we're evaluating the importance of mental wellness exercises. There are many approaches to improving mental well-being in the law enforcement field, including the effectiveness of mindfulness. Mindfulness is a type of meditation practice that provides officers with the ability to focus their mind on a particular problem. Studies have shown that implementing regular mindfulness exercises reduces stress and directs the brain towards more positive responses. Du...

Originally airing back in July 2023 and hosted by the National Law Enforcement Museum, we revisit a program about federal policies and how those decisions can impact law enforcement officers and the communities they serve. There have been times in American law enforcement history when federal policy decisions affected law enforcement professionals and how they were expected to approach enforcing them. In some instances, these policies caused more harm than good on both law enforcement and com...

In this episode of Icons, Director of Programs, Anna Muckenfuss, sits down with retired Deputy Assistant Director of the ATF and published author, Peter J. Forcelli. They will discuss his experience rising through the ranks, the transition from NYPD homicide detective to federal special agent, the importance of holding our law enforcement institutions accountable, and much more.https://nleomf.org/museum/precinct-444/

When Andrew Phillip Cunanan was a senior in High School, he was voted “Most Likely to be Remembered” by his peers. Little did they know he would be known for a killing spree that ended in the death of Gianni Versace, famous fashion designer to the stars. In today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we will discuss the crimes of Andrew Cunanan and the curious criminal psychology behind his crimes.https://nleomf.org/museum/precinct-444/

On this episode of Encore, we take a look back at "Restorative Justice: Does it work?" from January of 2020, when the Museum hosted a panel of experts from the judicial, law enforcement and restorative justice fields who will discuss how their programs work and the results they have experienced. We invite you to listen in and decide for yourself the value of this initiative for building safer communities.Addressing criminal conduct, challenging obstacles to lasting corrections reform, and hea...

On this episode of Encore, we're looking back at the SAFLEO Suicide Awareness Program from May 2021, when the SAFLEO program was introduced as a new initiative for suicide awareness and prevention. SAFLEO develops training and technical assistance programs for law enforcement across the country. The entire program can be found below in the resources section. The National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum works in partnership with the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA...

On this episode of Lifeline, we're revisiting the most recent quarterly review of the NHTSA traffic-related fatality statistics. We're joined by NHTSA Program Manager Reo Nelson and Nick Breul who will discuss the dramatic increase in traffic-related fatalities in the first quarter of 2024.Nick will present preliminary facts and analysis of the most recent crash fatalities and touch on the final fatality numbers for 2023, as well as a mention of the continuing trend of police vehicles be...

25 years ago, the world watched as two armed students killed 12 of their classmates and one teacher at Columbine High School and ushered a society out of an age of innocence. In the quarter of a century since the tragedy, Columbine has remained at the forefront of many conversations, informing decisions about law enforcement responses to active shooter incidents, and public concerns for the mental health of our youth. In this month's episode of Law and Disorder, we examine the reasons why we ...

This month marks the 25th anniversary of the mass shooting that took place at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado. In addition to the upcoming Museum program, "Picking Up the Pieces: How Law Enforcement and Communities Rebuild After Mass Casualty Events" (link below to register), we at Precinct 444 decided to release a Lifeline-focused episode about mass shooter incidents. Lifeline is all about providing a holistic wellness approach focused on supporting American law enforcement, and...

On September 10, 1968, two female officers at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department made history when they became the first women in the United States to be given a patrol assignment in the same fashion as their male colleagues. Years later, Sergeant Betty Blankenship's daughter, Robin Tryon would become a police officer with the same department where her mother made history. In this special episode of Icons, Law and Disorder host, Anna Muckenfuss, sits down with Robin Tryon to disc...

In this month's episode of Law and Disorder, Anna Muckenfuss sits down with Dr. Jenifer Smith, who boasts a nearly 40-year career in the field of forensic science. They will discuss Dr. Smith's road to the forensics lab, the cases from her career that have stuck with her, and the power of women in the field of forensic science.https://nleomf.org/museum/precinct-444/

The National Law Enforcement Museum and the National Organization of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE) worked together to provide this live virtual discussion focusing on empowering women in law enforcement.Women constitute less than 13% of total officers in this country—with an even smaller proportion of leadership positions—despite comprising over 50% of the total US population. Despite recent efforts to increase representation, the percentage of women in law enforcement has remaine...

This week on Law and Disorder, we will introduce you to Frances Glessner Lee, who is regarded by many as the woman who invented modern forensics. Lee’s passion for the field of legal medicine led to the creation of a unique seminar for homicide detectives that focused on her handmade miniature crime-scenes that she called “The Nutshells of Unexplained Death.” This episode will dive into Frances Glessner Lee’s interesting life, and her Nutshells, which are still used to train homicide detectiv...

In partnership with the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the National Law Enforcement Museum presented Voices for Change: Excellence in Black Law Enforcement Media. This program brought together influential law enforcement officers from around the country who utilize various media platforms such as social networks, public speaking, and documentary films to inspire a new generation of officers and community leaders and create more awareness for the profession ...

Today's episode takes a look at NHTSA traffic statistics for the final quarter of 2023. Nick Breul provides an update on these latest law enforcement traffic-related fatality statistics and is joined by Reo Nelson, from NHTSA. These webinars aid listeners in understanding what types of crashes were the most common in 2023 and highlights details on the circumstances involved in the crashes. Nick will cover seat belt use, and other important crash data points, such as tire deflation ...

Law and Disorder features true crime stories, investigative techniques, forensics, and the people responsible for solving difficult crimes. On this special episode, Anna Muckenfuss sits down with Lori-Suzanne Dell, the author of "A Fallen Star", and Sheriff Kevin Joyce, of the Cumberland County (ME) Sheriff's Office, to discuss the case of Deputy Ebenezer Parker.Deputy Parker served with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office in the early 19th century and performed many of the same duties tha...

The National Law Enforcement Museum hosted a panel discussion concerning the implementation of body warn cameras by law enforcement. Each panelist began by sharing their involvement with body worn cameras, touching on issues of pilot program implementation, getting community input, and creating and analyzing policies for body camera programs. Panelists also explained how they worked to get communities on board with the idea of body cameras. Lt. Grenon shared how, in Seattle, they provided roo...

In today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we are going to discuss the case of “Baby Doe” who was discovered on June 15, 2015 on the shore of Deer Island, outside of Boston, Massachusetts. Baby Doe was ultimately identified as two-year-old Bella Bond, but until she was identified, it was the practice of Forensic Palynology that created the first real break in her case. This episode is Part 2 of our look into Forensic Palynology.Part 1 goes in depth about Forensic Palynology, if you aren't alread...

Our Lifeline show provides content with a holistic wellness approach focused on supporting American law enforcement, including health and wellness. What about financial wellness? Law enforcement professionals should be thinking about their financial future and the steps necessary to achieve financial security.Today's episode is for those in law enforcement uncertain about their retirement plans or goals. Troy Anderson, the executive director of Office Safety and Wellness at the National Law E...

For over 14 months, the DEA tracked a fishing boat belonging to the kingpin of the Tijuana Cartel. The boat, named the “Dock Holiday,” was often sailed off the Mexican coast until finally, in August of 2006, the boat sailed into international waters and was intercepted by the United States Coast Guard. The kingpin was captured and DEA agents were able to take down one of Mexico’s most notorious drug cartels. The surveillance of the boat was part of an investigation of the Tijuana Cartel known...

For over 14 months, the DEA tracked a fishing boat belonging to the kingpin of the Tijuana Cartel. The boat, named the “Dock Holiday,” was often sailed off the Mexican coast until finally, in August of 2006, the boat sailed into international waters and was intercepted by the United States Coast Guard. The kingpin was captured and DEA agents were able to take down one of Mexico’s most notorious drug cartels. The surveillance of the boat was part of an investigation of the Tijuana Cartel known...

Did you know that pollen and plant spores can actually be useful in cracking a case? In today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we are going to give you a brief crash course in Forensic Palynology, which is the is the study of pollen grains and other spores to prove or disprove a connection in criminal cases. The rather obscure forensic discipline has been officially in practice since the 1950s and can help investigators determine far more than you might expect!Part 2 concludes this series with ...

“Accepting normal reactions to an abnormal event.” – Kendra StillOn October 1, 2017, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history occurred at a Las Vegas concert when a gunman broke an upper-floor window in a nearby hotel and began shooting at concern goers below. Law enforcement quickly responded, but the chaos of the scene and multiple false reports impeded their ability to pinpoint the shooter’s exact location. Ultimately, the shooter was discovered, and the incident was over, but not befor...

For over 14 months, the DEA tracked a fishing boat belonging to the kingpin of the Tijuana Cartel. The boat, named the “Dock Holiday,” was often sailed off the Mexican coast until finally, in August of 2006, the boat sailed into international waters and was intercepted by the United States Coast Guard. The kingpin was captured and DEA agents were able to take down one of Mexico’s most notorious drug cartels. The surveillance of the boat was part of an investigation of the Tijuana Cartel known...

On this episode of Icons, we bring you a conversation between Jerry and Elliot, father and son, who chose law enforcement as their career path. Chase grew up around his father's ventures, and he grew a fascination with helping people and joining in on community activities. He saw his father's passion and dedication to the job that he wanted the have the same purpose in his life.Listen in to learn more about the dynamic between father and son, and how law enforcement shaped both of their lives...

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the role of police has expanded to include the enforcement of public-health safety regulations in congruence with local, state, and federal law. With citizens of their jurisdictions eager to escape quarantine and return to normal life, this has been a challenge.The tragedy and scope of COVID-19 has shown its face in astronomical death tolls and extreme personal sacrifice, with the weight of the pandemic falling hardest on minority communities – specifi...

In 1996, Nancy Riggins of Elkridge, Maryland disappeared without a trace. In the days immediately following her disappearance, the behavior of her husband Steven leads investigators to suspect he may have something to do with it. On this week’s episode of Law and Disorder, we will dive into a case that turned a storybook town into the epicenter of scandal and learn how to think like a detective – or even a prosecutor - to putting together pieces of circumstantial evidence together and make a ...

On today's episode of Lifeline, we welcomed retired chief of police Tom Weitzel into the studio to share his law enforcement story. His passion for the field led him down a career path of more than 30 years. In 1987 Tom was awarded the Kevlar/DuPont Survivor’s Club Award for having survived an armed encounter. He returned to work and with the support of his wife had a thriving career. He would rise through the ranks and attain the position of Chief of Police for Riverside, Illinois, a positio...

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the role of police has expanded to include the enforcement of public-health safety regulations in congruence with local, state, and federal law. With citizens of their jurisdictions eager to escape quarantine and return to normal life, this has been a challenge.The tragedy and scope of COVID-19 has shown its face in astronomical death tolls and extreme personal sacrifice, with the weight of the pandemic falling hardest on minority communities – specifi...

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the role of police has expanded to include the enforcement of public-health safety regulations in congruence with local, state, and federal law. With citizens of their jurisdictions eager to escape quarantine and return to normal life, this has been a challenge.The tragedy and scope of COVID-19 has shown its face in astronomical death tolls and extreme personal sacrifice, with the weight of the pandemic falling hardest on minority communities – specifi...

From 1979 to 2001, FBI Special Agent Robert Hanssen devised his place in history as one of the most devastating double agents in the Bureau’s history before he was ultimately arrested and sentenced to 15 consecutive life sentences. On today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we will dive into this case and the internal FBI investigation that brought him to justice. https://nleomf.org/museum/precinct-444/

Washington, DC, is home to roughly 27 Law Enforcement agencies with overlapping jurisdictions, which often require cross-agency collaboration to solve the nearly 34,000 crimes that occur in the district each year. Processing much of this evidence requires the expertise of trained scientists, and that is where the DC Department of Forensic Science (DFS) plays a crucial role.Known as “The People’s Lab,” DFS is the largest publicly funded forensics lab in the United States and operates independe...

Washington, DC, is home to roughly 27 Law Enforcement agencies with overlapping jurisdictions, which often require cross-agency collaboration to solve the nearly 34,000 crimes that occur in the district each year. Processing much of this evidence requires the expertise of trained scientists, and that is where the DC Department of Forensic Science (DFS) plays a crucial role.Known as “The People’s Lab,” DFS is the largest publicly funded forensics lab in the United States and operates independe...

Lieutenant Joseph Petrosino was the first Italian-born officer in the NYPD and boasted a successful 25-year career busting organized crime with his Italian Squad. But his career – and his life – was cut short when he was sent on a fateful secret mission to Sicily and was assassinated on his way to meet an informant. On today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we are diving into the assassination of Lieutenant Detective Joseph Petrosino, who remains the only NYPD officer ever killed in the line of...

On today’s episode of Icons, we will introduce you to an iconic figure in Law Enforcement History. Lieutenant Joseph Petrosino was an Italian Immigrant who broke barriers in the New York Police Department in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Petrosino was a talented and determined investigator who set his sights on eliminating organized crime in Manhattan’s Little Italy. While Petrosino was assassinated at the peak of his career, his legacy lives on in both the Law Enforcement and Itali...

The National Law Enforcement Museum at the Washington Hilton Hotel held a discussion about the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan on March 30, 1981, by John Hinckley, Jr. President Reagan was only a few months into his presidency when he spoke to representatives from the AFL-CIO at the Hilton Hotel. As he was leaving the building, he waved to the crowds of people, and then a shot rang out. President Reagan’s Secret Service rushed the president into his limo and then to George ...

When violent crime occurs, both law enforcement and the general public often find themselves asking “what kind of person could do something like this?” The practice of criminal psychology exists to answer this question and in 1972, the FBI developed what is now the Behavioral Analysis Unit to study the motivations of violent offenders and recognize behavioral patterns between violent offenders to connect more cases and close them. The work of the early BAU was dramatized on Netflix’s series M...

The National Law Enforcement Museum at the Washington Hilton Hotel held a discussion about the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan on March 30, 1981, by John Hinckley, Jr. President Reagan was only a few months into his presidency when he spoke to representatives from the AFL-CIO at the Hilton Hotel. As he was leaving the building, he waved to the crowds of people, and then a shot rang out. President Reagan’s Secret Service rushed the president into his limo and then to George ...

Improvements in law enforcement technology can save lives, protect officers, and make operations more efficient, but how do we ensure technological advancements are deployed successfully?Precinct 444 revisits this conversation from June 29, 2022, featuring several experts in various fields of technology utilized by the law enforcement profession. This conversation considered the effectiveness of new technology, accountability for ethical implementation, and the community engagement needed to ...

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), collects and analyzes fatal law enforcement crash data to track any emerging trends and to provide timely safety recommendations to the field.On this episode of Lifeline, Nick Breul, the Senior Project Manager for the department of Officer Safety and Wellness here at the Memorial Fund, reviews the NHTSA second quarter statistics of 2023. He is joined by Captain ...

Similar to previous episodes of Icons, this episode will also feature two volunteers and law enforcement professionals. Kevin Fornshill proudly served in the United States Park Police for 24 years; he is the featured guest for this episode, and interviewing him as the guest host is his wife, Renee, who also has a background in law enforcement. Kevin talks about how his law enforcement career began, raising the family in a household with two law enforcement professionals, and what he does now ...

Improvements in law enforcement technology can save lives, protect officers, and make operations more efficient, but how do we ensure technological advancements are deployed successfully?Precinct 444 revisits this conversation from June 29, 2022, featuring several experts in various fields of technology utilized by the law enforcement profession. This conversation considered the effectiveness of new technology, accountability for ethical implementation, and the community engagement needed to ...

For the last century, fingerprints have been a cornerstone of identification in our criminal justice system and other criminal justice systems around the globe. But did you ever wonder how that came to be? On today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we are going to explore the history of fingerprint identification and identify its merits within forensic science. The National Law Enforcement Museum has a number of in-person forensics workshops for ages K-12. Learn more about them here.https://nleo...

Improvements in law enforcement technology can save lives, protect officers, and make operations more efficient, but how do we ensure technological advancements are deployed successfully?Precinct 444 revisits this conversation from June 29, 2022, featuring several experts in various fields of technology utilized by the law enforcement profession. This conversation considered the effectiveness of new technology, accountability for ethical implementation, and the community engagement needed to ...

Precinct 444 presents: Pride Behind the Badge: Hear Their Stories series to share the experiences, challenges, and motivations of LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals. This exclusive series is in conjunction with the Pride Behind the Badge digital exhibit, published today, and a companion program, airing live on YouTube Wednesday, June 28th at 2 pm. from LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals from all types of lawThe 5th and final part of this series features Michael Crumrine. H...

Precinct 444 presents: Pride Behind the Badge: Hear Their Stories series to share the experiences, challenges, and motivations of LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals. This exclusive series is in conjunction with the Pride Behind the Badge digital exhibit, published today, and a companion program, airing live on YouTube Wednesday, June 28th at 2 pm. from LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals from all types of lawEpisode four of this series features Don Mueller. He discusses the...

Precinct 444 presents: Pride Behind the Badge: Hear Their Stories series to share the experiences, challenges, and motivations of LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals. This exclusive series is in conjunction with the Pride Behind the Badge digital exhibit, published today, and a companion program, airing live on YouTube Wednesday, June 28th at 2 pm. from LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals from all types of lawEpisode three of this series features Julie Callahan. She discusse...

Precinct 444 presents: Pride Behind the Badge: Hear Their Stories series to share the experiences, challenges, and motivations of LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals. This exclusive series is in conjunction with the Pride Behind the Badge digital exhibit, published today, and a companion program, airing live on YouTube Wednesday, June 28th at 2 pm. from LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals from all types of lawEpisode two of this series features Albert Guarnieri. He talks abo...

Precinct 444 presents: Pride Behind the Badge: Hear Their Stories series to share the experiences, challenges, and motivations of LGBTQIA+ law enforcement professionals. This exclusive series is in conjunction with the Pride Behind the Badge digital exhibit, published today, and a companion program, airing live on YouTube Wednesday, June 28th at 2 pm. Episode one of this series begins with Greg Miraglia and Anthony Kasper. They rehash their early career challenges, what motivates them t...

On October 7, 1998, 21-year-old University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard was the victim of one of the most notorious anti-gay hate crimes to occur in the United States. In the years since his murder, his story has sparked conversation about hate crime legislation in the United States and led to the passage of the first federal hate crime law to include crimes instigated by an individual's perceived gender or gender identity. This episode of Law and Disorder examines the case – which come...

“When you connect with the community on a human level, they appreciate and start to trust you.”- Chief Fabienne Brooks, ret.Originally streamed on August 10, 2020, “Spotlight on Law Enforcement Anti-Bias Programs” features several high-profile guests to share their thoughts and experiences regarding the effectiveness and successes of national anti-bias programs adopted into various law enforcement agencies. The discussion focuses on implementing these programs, and the importance of knowing t...

The racially motivated murder of James Byrd, Jr. in the small Texas town of Jasper on June 7, 1998, sent a shockwave across the United States and internationally. Jasper has that quaint southern, small-town feel, and when news broke about James’ death, it seemed to have reversed everything its citizens had worked so hard to protect. On this episode of Law and Disorder, Anna unravels this 25-year-old case, sharing the heart-breaking experiences of the Byrd family, and the Jasper community...

“How you define it, determines how you approach it.”- Dr. Tracie KeeseeOriginally streamed on August 10, 2020, “Spotlight on Law Enforcement Anti-Bias Programs” features several high-profile guests to share their thoughts and experiences regarding the effectiveness and successes of national anti-bias programs adopted into various law enforcement agencies. The discussion focuses on implementing these programs, and the importance of knowing the difference between anti-bias and racism, what it m...

This Encore series of “Reflections on the 2010 West Memphis Shooting with Sheriff Mike Neal” concludes with part 2, when Sheriff Neal provides even more details about his experience on that fateful day, including what it was like knowing the other officers had his back at the scene. He talks about his training and what it’s like to be Sheriff in Monroe County, Arkansas. There is a Q&A at the end and closing remarks by Marcia Ferranto, the CEO of the Memorial Fund. If you haven’t alre...

“Glory is not good; Glory is for somebody who wants to look good, but Honor is what continues to make us be the best we can be with respect and commitment.” – Pat MontuoreFollowing the end of National Police Week 2023, Bill Alexander, the Memorial’s executive director sits down in studio with founder and president of the Police Unity Tour, Pat Montuore, and fellow co-president and board member, Erik Heller. Pat and Erik discuss their careers in law enforcement, the Police Unity Tour, and all ...

On today’s episode of Encore, we’re going back to May 2020 to revisit the conversation between Sheriff Mike Neal and Jonathan Thompson, the executive director of the National Sheriff’s Association, concerning Sheriff Neal’s response to a 2010 West Memphis Shooting ended with the deaths of two officers. Their names and engraving locations on the Memorial are below.Tune into this episode to hear Sheriff Neal's account of the day, specialized training of Game and Fish officers, and his overall c...

This episode of Precinct 444 will provide a comprehensive overview of the schedule of events for National Police Week 2023, which will be honored by the Memorial and Museum this year from May 9th thru May 20th. Listen in for specific information related to these events and in what ways the Memorial Fund is involved. Learn about the beginning of the Memorial and why Police Week was created. You may not know that National Police Week was around well before the Officers Memorial was constr...

The National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum works in partnership with the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and the Institute for Intergovernmental Research (IIR), on this national suicide awareness and prevention program, which develops training and technical assistance programs for law enforcement across the country.Join us for an overview of SAFLEO, presented by Nick Breul, the Officer Safety and Wellness Senior Project Manager, as he explains the importance o...

Suicide prevention is a major concern within law enforcement. Health and wellness programs are being created across the country to help officers and their families ensure that they will not become victims of a suicide tragedy. This virtual panel discussion will explore such prevention programs and share other avenues that address suicide prevention by engaging law enforcement leadership in their strategies and best practices. Law enforcement chiefs from across North America will share th...

In this third part of Law and Disorder's coverage of the 30th anniversary of the Waco siege, we are going to take a closer look at the 51-day standoff between FBI negotiators and the Branch Davidians. We will examine the key events of the siege and consider the effect that Waco's tragedy has had on the practice of federal law enforcement over the last three decades.This episode is brought to you by Off Duty Management. Off Duty Management is dedicated to supporting and protecting law enforcem...

Suicide prevention is a major concern within law enforcement. Health and wellness programs are being created across the country to help officers and their families ensure that they will not become victims of a suicide tragedy. This virtual panel discussion will explore such prevention programs and share other avenues that address suicide prevention by engaging law enforcement leadership in their strategies and best practices. Law enforcement chiefs from across North America will share th...

On February 28, 1993, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) attempted to serve a warrant at a compound inhabited by the radical religious group, The Branch Davidians, outside of Waco, Texas. In this special edition of Icons, we will hear from Retired Special Agent Blake Boteler who was an agent on the ATF’s Special Response Team out of the Dallas division that served the warrant on the Branch Davidian compound that day. While Boteler’s experience a...

As an organization that supports law enforcement professionals, we certainly have former law enforcement on staff to assist us on our mission. This particular episode feature’s Bill Alexander, the Memorial’s executive director, a retired officer from Prince George’s County P.D. and United States Air Force veteran. He is joined by his wife, Jennifer, who is our guest interviewer for today’s episode of Icons. In this episode, Bill talks about how his law enforcement career began, some of those ...

On the third and final installment of Breaking the Blue Ceiling, the discussion wraps up with topics surrounding why law enforcement is often and wrongly described as a "man's job", the importance of recruitment and retention of women in law enforcement, and when would be the best time for women to enter the law enforcement profession (spoiler alert: it's now!).As part of Women’s History Month, we hope you enjoyed this look back at Breaking the Blue Ceiling and will listen to parts 1 and 2 if...

With more than 50 years of combined law enforcement experience, we’re proud to introduce two of the National Law Enforcement Museum’s volunteers: Suzanne Beam, formerly with the Montgomery County (MD) Police Department and Lisa Somers, formerly with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). They are joined in studio by Madison Scott, the Museum’s manager of volunteer services, to discuss their careers as women in the law enforcement profession. Each of them shares some of the difficulties th...

From February 28 to April 19, 1993, federal agents found themselves in a standoff with members of the Branch Davidian sect at a compound in the desert outside of Waco Texas. The initial raid ended with the deaths of four ATF agents and five Branch Davidians, and the fiery conclusion of the 51-day siege continues to haunt federal agents 30 years later. In this episode of Law and Disorder, we begin our deep dive into the Waco siege with a look at the history and crimes of the Branch Davidians –...

On January 31, 2023, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund hosted a pivotal event on the topic of prevention of firearms injury and line-of-duty deaths. This entire day event featured law enforcement and firearms experts and leadership, as well as statistical data from NLEOMF’s proprietary Mid-Year and End-of-Year Law Enforcement Officers Fatalities Reports to deliver actionable content and tools. The nation’s most respected law enforcement tactics practitioners, combined with t...

On part 2 of this addition of Breaking the Blue Ceiling, former director of the ATF, Regina Lombardo leads a discussion about the hurdles women have had to face upon entering the law enforcement profession. This discussion includes the perspectives of the panelists, providing a unique look into their career in law enforcement. As part of Women’ History Month, we invite you to continue listening to this high-profile panel of women and men in law enforcement as they discuss the challenges ...

On this edition of Encore, we’re looking back at Breaking the Blue Ceiling, originally introduced live on December 9 of 2020. As part of Women’ History Month, we invite you to take a listen to this high-profile panel of women and men in law enforcement as they discuss the challenges of the recruitment of female officers, and the unique experiences that women face in their roles to serve and protect.This is a three-part series, with part 1 beginning with opening remarks by the Memorial Fund’s ...

In this final installment of Black Trailblazers in Blue for 2023, we are going to highlight the stories of three key public servants and Chiefs of Police who have led major city police departments – and the cities themselves - through times of turmoil and created policies that have greatly shaped the way policing is done today. Black Trailblazers in Blue honors the service and sacrifice of black law enforcement officers throughout history and highlights some of the key individuals who have ma...

Back in February of 2021, together with the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the National Law Enforcement Museum held a program that sought to uncover ways to support black law enforcement officers and encourage new recruits to join the force and protect our communities. This panel discussion examined the potential “double backlash” facing Black police officers and pathways to changing the culture inside agencies that could result in a more positive perceptio...

In today’s special Black Trailblazers in Blue episode of Icons, we are going to examine the stories of two figures in Black Law Enforcement History who’s contributions to Law Enforcement played a significant role in fighting extreme racism in the wake of the Civil Rights Movement. Join us as we discuss the stories of Sheriff Lucius Amerson and Detective Ron Stallworth in this week’s episode.For a full list of Black law enforcement figures, please visit our archive, found here.https://nleomf.o...

The Icons series is not just about contemporary figures in the law enforcement community, but about all those who have served their communities and the world. This episode imbodies the essence of that goal. Today features Anthony Amerson, the son of famed Sheriff Lucius Amerson, the first Black elected sheriff in the south since reconstruction. We hear from Anthony about how his father’s legacy remains intact and what he’s done to continue the Sheriff’s penchant for serving the community. Mad...

In this week’s special Black Trailblazers in Blue edition of Icons, we look at the stories of three influential women of color in law enforcement history. Not only did they play a pivotal role in the history of law enforcement, they were the first to do so in their respective positions. Join us as we discuss the roles that Georgia Ann Robinson, Arva Marie Johnson, and Constance Baker Motley played at the crucial intersection of Black and women’s law enforcement history. For a full list of Bla...

Like our Doug Scott episode of Icons, this episode is also a conversation between father and daughter. Charles Humphrey, our very own simulator instructor, is joined in the studio by his daughter, Courtney, as they take a look back at his career and what sort of affect that had on the family. Charles brings more than 40 years of law enforcement experience to the Museum, including being a certified firearms instructor with the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, where he spent mos...

In a series of four episodes, the Black Trailblazers in Blue series will profile a selection of African American leaders in Law Enforcement and highlight their contributions to the field and its expansive history.From slave to U.S. Marshal, Bass Reeves went on to serve more than 30 years in law enforcement, becoming the first African American to serve as a U.S. Marshal. Listen in to learn more about his life and career in law enforcement.For a full list of Black law enforcement figures, pleas...

Back in February of 2021, together with the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the National Law Enforcement Museum held a program that sought to uncover ways to support black law enforcement officers and encourage new recruits to join the force and protect our communities. This panel discussion examined the potential “double backlash” facing Black police officers and pathways to changing the culture inside agencies that could result in a more positive perceptio...

It has been over a decade since the disappearance and murder of Florida toddler, Caylee Anthony dominated the airwaves and the case ended with the most shocking not guilty verdict since the OJ Simpson case. The tragedy of Caylee’s disappearance remains at the forefront of public consciousness and has even had an impact on the passage of laws to protect other missing children around the country. On today’s episode of Law and Disorder, we will discuss the timeline of the Caylee Anthony disappea...

More than 10 years ago, FirstNet - The Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network was created as part of the Middle-Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act (Public Law 112-96), which was officially signed into law on February 22, 2012. As a result, the FirstNet Authority was given authorization to carry out the building, deployment, and operation of the network. Part of the law also required the FirstNet Authority to establish relationships with federal, state, tribal, and local public safety e...

More than 10 years ago, FirstNet - The Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network was created as part of the Middle-Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act (Public Law 112-96), which was officially signed into law on February 22, 2012. As a result, the FirstNet Authority was given authorization to carry out the building, deployment, and operation of the network. Part of the law also required the FirstNet Authority to establish relationships with federal, state, tribal, and local public safety e...

More than 10 years ago, FirstNet - The Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network was created as part of the Middle-Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act (Public Law 112-96), which was officially signed into law on February 22, 2012. As a result, the FirstNet Authority was given authorization to carry out the building, deployment, and operation of the network. Part of the law also required the FirstNet Authority to establish relationships with federal, state, tribal, and local public safety e...

More than 10 years ago, FirstNet - The Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network was created as part of the Middle-Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act (Public Law 112-96), which was officially signed into law on February 22, 2012. As a result, the FirstNet Authority was given authorization to carry out the building, deployment, and operation of the network. Part of the law also required the FirstNet Authority to establish relationships with federal, state, tribal, and local public safety e...

Back in February of 2021, together with the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the National Law Enforcement Museum held a program that sought to uncover ways to support black law enforcement officers and encourage new recruits to join the force and protect our communities. This panel discussion examined the potential “double backlash” facing Black police officers and pathways to changing the culture inside agencies that could result in a more positive perceptio...

With 30 years of experience, retired criminal justice instructor and law enforcement officer Doug Scott joins his daughter Madison for an interview about the impact such a career has on family life. They discuss the funny moments shared through Doug's career, but also delve into the ways the profession of law enforcement impacted raising a child. Madison, our manager of volunteer services at the National Law Enforcement Museum, shares her memories of growing up with a father in law enforcemen...

The path has been laid and it is up to us to follow it. Our guest Laurie Robinson is the Clarence J. Robinson Professor Emerita of Criminology, Law and Society at George Mason University. Robinson twice served as a Senate-confirmed, Presidentially appointed Assistant Attorney General for the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs, the research, statistics and criminal justice assistance arm of the Department. Laurie was the longest serving head of the agency in its 5...

When officers have the support they need there is nothing they can’t achieve.Our guest Patrick Burke currently serves as the executive director of the DC Police Foundation after finishing a term as the 42nd United States Marshal for the District of Columbia and serving 27 years with the DC Metropolitan Police Department. President Obama credited Patrick Burke with helping coordinate security for major events as the Metropolitan Police Department’s principal coordinator and incident commander ...

When officers have the support they need there is nothing they can’t achieve.Our guest Mike Chapman was elected Sheriff, Loudoun County, VA in 2011 and took office January 2012. He was reelected in 2015 and again in 2019. Sheriff Chapman is Vice President of Homeland Security for the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Sheriffs Association. He also serves on the DARE Law Enforcement Advisory Board and serves as the Co-Chair on the Depa...

Funding safety for the benefit of all.Our guest Karhlton Moore was appointed by President Biden as Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). Prior to joining BJA, Karhlton served as the Executive Director of Ohio’s Office of Criminal Justice Services where he oversaw state and federal grants for law enforcement, victim assistance, juvenile justice, crime prevention courts, anti-trafficking efforts, reentry, corrections programs, and traffic safety. In that role, he led Ohio’s grantm...

Leading communities toward healing and reconciliation.Our guest Ganesha Martin is an executive legal thought leader committed to improving the culture of public safety across the country for the betterment of our communities and those who protect and serve. From senior roles within the Baltimore City Police Department to the Mayor’s Office, she has leveraged her positions to develop and implement compliance and risk mitigation strategies, crime and violence reduction plans and legislative pri...

"The power of being unaffiliated and open-minded. "Our guest Billy Williams has held numerous positions of leadership. As U.S. attorney in Oregon from 2015-2021, he worked to forge relationships, foster understanding, and represent victim and state interests. He served on numerous advisory subcommittees and working groups, including the Native American Issues Subcommittee, Civil Rights Subcommittee, Border and Immigration Subcommittee, Domestic Terrorism Executive Committee, Ninth Circuit Fai...

The investigation of the Unabomb case remains among the longest and most expensive cases in the history of the FBI. A lone bomber – revealed to be reclusive academic Theodore “Ted” Kaczynski – terrorized American universities, and commercial airlines for nearly two decades with homemade bombs that he sent through the mail or in some occasions, hand delivered. His reign of terror killed three Americans and injured dozens. Join us on Law and Disorder as we discuss the Unabomb investigation and ...

So, is Die Hard a Christmas movie?From Hollywood to real life, "Reel to Real" is a look at some of the biggest American law enforcement films over the years and whether they live up to "real" law enforcement procedures and protocols. Join us for a discussion surrounding the cult classic "Die Hard" as we analyze key scenes and determine their viability in policing. Precinct 444 is joined by special guest Wayne Steinhilber, a retired D.C. Metro Police officer and one of the Museum's volunteers....

Join Precinct 444 for this revisiting of the special PBS documentary The Definition of Insanity. The film chronicles the Miami-Dade Criminal Mental Health Project, an innovative prison diversion program. The Definition of Insanity illustrates how one local judge’s novel approach to solving the mental health crisis could be the model to tackle the much larger epidemic throughout America.In part 2, our panelists talk through the progress made using empirical data. You’ll also hear about some of...

Today marks the 10-year anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting--one of the deadliest school shootings to ever occur in the United States. Dozens responded to the school in support of the victims and their families as the community came together in a time of great sorrow after such a horrific act. Among those who responded were police officers who were tasked with relaying information to the families and friends of the victims, which ultimately left an indelible mark on the h...

Join Precinct 444 for this revisiting of the special PBS documentary The Definition of Insanity. The film chronicles the Miami-Dade Criminal Mental Health Project, an innovative prison diversion program. The Definition of Insanity illustrates how one local judge’s novel approach to solving the mental health crisis could be the model to tackle the much larger epidemic throughout America.In this first part, you will be introduced to our panelists and learn about their roles within the Miami-Dad...