A Tulare County Sheriff’s Office detective was shot and killed Thursday morning while serving an eviction notice at a home in Porterville, California, in what the sheriff described as a deliberate ambush, according to ABC30. Detective Randy Hoppert, who joined the department in 2020 after serving in the U.S. Navy, was struck by gunfire from the suspect — 60-year-old David Morales — who had barricaded himself inside the home armed with a high-powered rifle. Hoppert leaves behind a wife who is four months pregnant. The suspect, who had no prior criminal record, was later killed when he emerged from the home armed and in tactical gear and opened fire on a Kern County SWAT armored vehicle. It is the first line-of-duty death for the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office in nearly 20 years. 💙🖤 More here

Chief Breaks Her Silence

Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge spoke publicly for the first time Friday since being placed on paid administrative leave in October, following a pre-disciplinary hearing before the city manager, according to WCPO 9. The hearing came after the city released a nine-page report concluding she had “not been an effective leader,” citing an “old school approach,” lack of transparency, a culture of retaliation, and difficulty working with city leadership. Theetge and her attorneys pushed back forcefully, calling the process “hasty and unlawful” and the report speculative and politically motivated. Her attorney said the city must now decide whether to reinstate her or remove her, warning that removal would trigger a legal fight, and adding that no financial settlement could restore the damage done to her reputation. Theetge said simply: “We didn’t start this fight, but by God we’re going to finish it.” 🔗 More here

Brown Names New Chief

Brown University has appointed Colonel Hugh T. Clements Jr. as permanent police chief and vice president for public safety, following a December campus shooting that left two students dead and prompted a federal investigation into the university’s security failures, according to the New York Times. Clements, who served as Providence police chief for 12 years before directing the Justice Department’s COPS Office, had been serving in an interim role since days after the attack. The university’s previous chief, Rodney Chatman, whose tenure was described as contentious even before the shooting, departed this week. The U.S. Department of Education had cited concerns about Brown’s surveillance systems and emergency alert response, and the university has since added cameras and panic buttons across campus while two commissioned safety reviews remain ongoing. 🔗 More here

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St. Louis Sues Over Takeover

St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer filed a lawsuit Thursday challenging a state law that transferred control of the city’s police department from the mayor’s office to a board with a majority of governor-appointed members, according to St. Louis Public Radio. The suit argues the law’s requirement that the city spend a set percentage of general revenue on policing — without providing additional state funding — constitutes an unconstitutional unfunded mandate. The city’s proposed police budget of $220 million falls short of the board’s certified expenses of $250 million, a gap that includes 7% raises negotiated with the police union. The lawsuit is the third legal challenge to the state takeover, with two others already pending May hearings. 🔗 More here

Highway Safety Imperiled

World Cup Cyber Threats

Federal, state, and local agencies are preparing for a wide range of cyberattacks targeting this summer’s FIFA World Cup, with concerns ranging from disrupted broadcast signals and ticketing systems to attacks on transit networks and water treatment plants, according to Politico. CISA has conducted more than 1,000 security engagements specifically for the tournament since early 2025 and has completed physical and cybersecurity assessments of nearly all stadiums and team base camps. Top threats include Iran- and Russia-linked hackers, criminal ransomware groups, and unauthorized drone activity. Complicating preparations is the ongoing DHS shutdown — 40% of CISA’s bomb prevention staff are furloughed, FEMA’s $625 million in security grants to host cities has been slowed, and hundreds of TSA officers have quit. New York’s chief cyber officer captured the scale of the challenge: “It’s like there’s multiple Super Bowls happening over a six-week period.” ⚽️ More here

Drones Help Bust Drug Ring

A Maryland sheriff’s office used drone surveillance to help dismantle a cocaine trafficking ring tied to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, seizing more than 93 pounds of cocaine valued at over $4 million and 11 firearms across Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, according to the Washington Post. Drone footage of a truck stop drug exchange provided key court evidence, capturing two Home Depot boxes containing 53 pounds of cocaine being transferred between suspects. The investigation, which began in late 2024, involved monitoring 19 cellphones and has resulted in charges against 13 suspects. The case highlights the rapid expansion of police drone use — more than 1,000 agencies have received FAA approval for drone programs since a streamlined process took effect in May 2025, down from an 11-month approval wait to just one week. 🔗 More here

AI Pranks Draw Charges

Law enforcement in Florida is warning of a growing trend of AI-generated prank videos being used to deceive both the public and police, according to WKMG Orlando. A man in Seminole County was arrested on felony charges — including fabricating evidence — after showing a deputy an AI-generated video falsely claiming someone had broken into the deputy’s patrol car. The same suspect had previously approached shoppers in West Palm Beach with fabricated videos, including one appearing to show a customer’s husband with another woman. Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma called the misuse of AI deepfakes “a growing concern,” warning that fabricated videos targeting first responders can damage reputations, create unnecessary tensions, and raise real safety risks. 🔗 More here

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FBI Director Kash Patel issued a blunt warning to anyone who attacks law enforcement, vowing that those who “touch a cop” will be tracked down and arrested, according to Fox News. Speaking on a radio program Saturday, Patel emphasized that the FBI will back law enforcement partners and that anyone who assaults or interferes with officers in the lawful execution of their duties will “face the full force of law enforcement.” The comments come as the Department of Homeland Security reports that violence against federal agents has spiked to a record high since the start of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement crackdown. 🔗 More here

Local-Federal Common Ground

Federal, state, and local law enforcement leaders — along with prosecutors and labor organizations — convened to find practical agreement on intergovernmental immigration enforcement cooperation, according to the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Four core principles emerged: consistent two-way communication and early notification before federal operations begin; coordinated tactics to protect both officer and community safety; focusing enforcement on violent criminals and national security threats rather than broad population sweeps; and reducing politically charged rhetoric from all sides that undermines trust and collaboration. Participants agreed that community trust is an operational requirement that directly impacts crime reporting, officer safety, and law enforcement effectiveness at every level. 📝 Core Principles

Who’s Levying Complaints

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara now has 30 complaints filed against him, which is 15 times the number the last chief of police had on file. O’Hara says he thinks most of the recent heat he faces is related to the ICE surge in Minnesota.

Chief to Retire After Shooting

The Howard County, Maryland police chief announced his retirement amid scrutiny following the fatal shooting of a 25-year-old autistic man, according to WMAR-2 News. Alex LaMorie died on March 1 after calling 911 on himself for a wellness check and approaching officers with a knife; body camera footage shows an officer pleading with him before three officers opened fire. Chief Gregory Der had already notified County Executive Calvin Ball of his planned June 1 retirement before the public outcry began. In response to the incident, the county purchased 200 tasers — which were not standard issue at the time of the shooting — and the state Attorney General’s office is investigating whether criminal charges are warranted. 🔗 More here

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Camera Doesn’t Lie

Two contrasting local cases illustrate the value of body cameras, according to CNHI. In Hampstead, New Hampshire, body camera footage corroborated officers’ accounts in a 2024 shooting and validated their use of force. In North Andover, Massachusetts, the absence of cameras in a shooting involving two officers resulted in a “he said, she said” trial that ended in acquittal — with the judge noting prosecutors may have met their burden of proof had cameras been present. Chiefs who have adopted the technology report that cameras reduce complaints against officers, routinely exonerate them from false accusations, and build community trust. As one chief put it simply: “The camera doesn’t lie.” 📸 More here

Chief Addresses Court Fears

Nashville Police Chief John Drake fielded community concerns about whether Hispanic families can safely access Davidson County courthouses following reports of ICE arrests at courthouses in neighboring counties.

Disabling License Plate Readers

Law enforcement agencies across Washington state, including Seattle and Kent, have temporarily disabled mobile automated license plate readers to comply with a new state law that took effect March 30, according to KUOW. The law sets a 21-day data retention limit and prohibits capturing plate data near sensitive locations including immigration offices, schools, courts, places of worship, and food banks. Agencies are working with vendors Axon and Flock to develop geofencing solutions, but in the meantime officers have reverted to manually running plates — the same results, significantly slower. While chiefs acknowledge the new privacy protections have merit, particularly for domestic violence victims, some warn the 21-day retention limit could jeopardize property crime investigations where detectives may not identify a suspect vehicle until weeks after the incident. 🔗 More here

Mile High ALPR Swap

Denver moved from Flock to Axon for license plate recognition cameras after concerns that Flock had been sharing Denver data with other cities and immigration enforcement agencies, according to Denver7. Under the new $150,000 Axon contract, data is stored for 21 days, access is restricted exclusively to Denver police investigating active criminal cases, and no other law enforcement agency — including federal — can access the system. Axon does not maintain a national network, does not sell customer data, and confirmed its cameras capture vehicle and plate information only — not facial recognition or occupant images. 🔗 More here

More Than Just Enforcing Laws

For more than 25 years, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Anti-Defamation League have led police officers and recruits through a day-long training called Law Enforcement and Society, which uses photographs of German police during the Holocaust to prompt discussions about the role of law enforcement in a democratic society, according to the Police Executive Research Forum. The program was created by former Washington D.C. Police Chief Charles Ramsey after a museum visit led him to realize that German police — who took oaths similar to his own — played an active role in the Holocaust. “Through history we learn,” Ramsey told PERF. “We can learn from the Holocaust and help police understand that their role is about more than just enforcing laws.” The training is now part of recruit programs for agencies including the U.S. Capitol Police, Metropolitan Police Department, and Tampa Police Department, which has put every new officer through the curriculum since 2013. ✡️ PERF Report

Dropping This Week

This week's guest is Colonel Matthew Birmingham of the Vermont State Police — responsible for policing 200 of the state's 250 cities. Colonel Birmingham talks leadership, northern border enforcement, rural law enforcement, and officer mental health in a conversation you won't want to miss.

Oakland Launches Gun Blitz

Oakland police announced a 60-day enforcement operation in partnership with the ATF, FBI, and DEA targeting illegal gun sales and firearm-related crimes, according to KTVU Fox 2. The operation will include undercover operations, directed patrols, search warrants, and intelligence-led investigations, with Assistant Chief Casey Johnson warning that those found with illegal firearms could face federal charges. The announcement comes as city leaders report a 29% drop in violent crime in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year, including double-digit declines in homicides, robberies, and aggravated assaults. 🔗 More here

Mass Officer Charges

More than a dozen Massachusetts police officers have been charged with felonies in the first three months of 2026, nearly double the pace of recent years, according to MassLive. State oversight data show 20 current and former officers had their certifications suspended in the first quarter. Cases include four state police members facing manslaughter charges in the death of a recruit, a separate alleged DUI cover-up within the state police, and a Plymouth officer accused of sexually abusing her adopted son. Experts disagree on the cause — some point to weak leadership and inadequate hiring standards, while others say the prosecutions reflect an unwillingness among officers to cover for colleagues. A retired State Police major said: “The system is in failure mode.” 🔗 More here

Bomb Proofing Horses

The Atlanta Police Department is training its mounted patrol unit for crowd control and security during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will bring eight matches to the city including a semifinal, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. Officers are “bomb-proofing” horses — desensitizing them to loud noises, large crowds, flags, and fireworks — while also practicing crowd control techniques with partner agencies. Atlanta expects roughly two dozen horses on hand, with additional riders coming from the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, Savannah, and Memphis. Officers say the elevated vantage point on horseback is a significant tactical advantage in congested areas, and that the unit will also serve as community ambassadors to help fans navigate the city. 🐴 More here

Troopers Rescue Cub

New Jersey State Police troopers responded to an unusual call April 1 after a lone bear cub was spotted in a roadside ditch along I-78 in Union Township, according to NBC10 Philadelphia. Troopers safely secured the cub, transported it to the barracks, and released it to the state Department of Environmental Protection for proper care. A photo of a trooper cradling the tiny cub quickly won over social media, with police calling it a “paw-sitive” outcome. 🐻 More here

Students Build AI Tools

Three high school students in Columbia, Missouri won the state AI championship for developing artificial intelligence tools designed to assist local police, according to KOMU 8. The trio built a 911 call analyzer to identify crime trends, a video analysis tool, and a police reporting assistant — all developed from scratch in partnership with the Columbia and University of Missouri police departments. The students emphasized that their AI is designed to assist officers, not replace human judgment, with one noting the technology is “never making the last decision.” The tools are not yet in use by the department due to cybersecurity concerns around sensitive law enforcement data, but the students are now advancing to regional competition 💻 More here

Live Facial Recognition

North Yorkshire Police in the UK has announced plans to begin using live facial recognition cameras in intelligence-led locations to identify high-risk offenders and protect vulnerable people, according to the BBC. The technology scans faces in real time, comparing them against a watchlist of persons of interest, with non-matching images deleted immediately and the watchlist itself deleted at the end of each deployment. Several other UK forces are already using the technology. 🔗 More here

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A new white paper from the Violence Reduction Center argues that social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube are playing an increasingly significant role in driving shootings in underserved Black and Latino communities — a dynamic well known to law enforcement and violence prevention workers but rarely studied or reported on, according to The Guardian. Researcher Thomas Abt found that online disputes, taunts, and music videos trading barbs between rivals are escalating into real-world violence, compounded by algorithms that reward violent content with attention that can be monetized. Abt and his co-authors are calling for social media companies to come to the table and share how their algorithms work, invest in community-led digital monitoring, and develop ethical early warning systems — noting that every major platform was invited to participate in their research symposium but none sent a formal representative.📱More here

Camden’s Crime Turnaround

Once among the most dangerous cities in America with 67 homicides in 2012, Camden, New Jersey achieved its first homicide-free summer in 50 years in 2025 — an 82% reduction in murders over 13 years — according to the New York Times. The turnaround began in 2013 when the city dissolved its troubled police department and replaced it with a new county force built around community policing, extensive surveillance technology, and targeted dismantling of drug trafficking organizations. Community-based violence interruption programs, workforce development initiatives for youth, and the rehabilitation of more than 1,000 vacant properties complemented the policing changes. Residents and officials widely describe the progress as transformational, while acknowledging that poverty persists and that continued investment is needed to sustain the gains. 📉 More here

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Focused Deterrence

Salt Lake City police and prosecutors have launched a focused deterrence strategy targeting the 114 individuals identified through three years of crime data as most likely to be involved in future violence, according to Utah News Dispatch. Those on the list received letters in February warning of an accelerated law enforcement response to any new offenses, while also being offered an off-ramp through mental health and substance abuse treatment programs. The program, called the Targeted Offender Partnership Strategy, designates two prosecutors specifically to pursue swift action against any list member on supervised release who picks up new charges — cutting what previously could take weeks down to immediate response. A criminology professor from the University of Texas at San Antonio, who helped develop similar programs in Dallas and Boston, assisted in building the scoring system used to identify the group. 🔗 More here

Oakland Gains, Staffing Crisis

Oakland recorded its lowest homicide count since the late 1960s in 2025 — 56 murders — following back-to-back years of significant reductions driven by the Ceasefire strategy, surveillance technology, and federal law enforcement partnerships, according to The Oaklandside. Interim Police Chief James Beere, who has applied for the permanent position, credited community cooperation and interagency collaboration for the gains, but acknowledged the department is operating with just 500 of an authorized 678 officers and would ideally need 1,200 to sustain long-term crime reduction. 🔗 More here

Bomb Suspect Fled to China

A Florida man accused of planting an explosive device outside MacDill Air Force Base has fled to China, while his sister is now in custody after both were charged in connection with the incident, federal officials announced.

Jan. 6 Intelligence Failure

Former U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund testified before a House subcommittee that the January 6th Capitol attack was an “intelligence failure” that could have been prevented. Sund told lawmakers that significant intelligence existed ahead of the attack indicating individuals were plotting to storm the Capitol, target lawmakers, and discussing shooting officers — but no intelligence agency sounded the alarm. He drew a direct comparison to the intelligence failures preceding the September 11th attacks, warning that if the underlying issues are not identified and corrected, the country risks repeating history. Sund also called on lawmakers to grant the Capitol Police chief greater authority to request assistance from federal law enforcement agencies without having to navigate bureaucratic barriers. 🔗 More here

FirstNet Reauthorization Advances

A House committee voted 51-0 to advance legislation reauthorizing FirstNet — the federally supported communications network built for first responders following communication failures on September 11th — through fiscal 2037, according to CQ Roll Call. The bill includes amendments aimed at balancing oversight by the Commerce Department with FirstNet’s ability to deploy emergency resources and manage its own budget without bureaucratic delays. The reauthorization comes amid scrutiny of the AT&T-run network, including inspector general reports finding insufficient coverage during the 2023 Maui wildfires and attempts by senior officials to interfere with audits. The Fraternal Order of Police opposed the bill, arguing the changes could marginalize frontline input and delay critical decisions. The committee also unanimously advanced the Mystic Alerts Act, which would require wireless emergency alerts to be sent via satellite — named for the Texas summer camp where more than two dozen people died in flooding last summer when traditional networks were unavailable. 📡 More here

Drones: America’s Blind Spot

In an editorial, the Washington Post Editorial Board warns that a series of sophisticated drone incursions over Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana — a critical hub of America’s nuclear bomber fleet — exposes a serious gap in U.S. homeland defense. The drones, which reportedly delayed bombers headed to strike targets in Iran, were likely custom-built and required advanced signals expertise. The board draws on examples from Ukraine and NATO exercises to argue that drone warfare has fundamentally changed the battlefield, noting that Russia is now sharing upgraded Iranian drone designs, satellite imagery, and targeting data to help Iran strike American personnel and bases. The editorial concludes that the U.S. must urgently prioritize drone defense and counter-drone innovation. 🔗 More here

Briefing Room Podcasts

Missed a podcast? All episodes can be found on 🎙️ www.policebriefing.com

• Sheriff Dennis Lemma, Seminole County (FL) Sheriff’s Office — Service Over Politics: Being a Superhero and Building Safer Communities

• Sheriff Mike Chapman, Loudoun County (VA) Sheriff’s Office — From Cocaine Cowboys to County Sheriff

• Chief Stephen Redfearn, Boulder (CO) Police Department — From Dispatcher to Chief: Leading Through the Unthinkable

• Chief Doreen Jokerst, Overland Park (KS) Police Department — Protecting the Vulnerable and Running to Us for Help

• Chief Joe Sullivan, Wichita (KS) Police Department — How Data-Driven Policing Reduces Violence

• Chief Darrell Lowe, Redmond (WA) Police Department — Leadership and Accountability in Policing

• Kristen Mahoney, Public Safety Leader — Being Curious and Educating the Leaders of Tomorrow

• Colonel Michael Rapich, Utah Highway Patrol — What It Means to Serve: Leadership and Legacy

• Chief Stacey Graves, Kansas City (MO) Police Department — The Kansas City Chief: Not the Football Team

• Chief Lee Bercaw, Tampa (FL) Police Department — How to Reduce Crime

• Chief Katherine Lester, Sacramento (CA) Police Department — The Art of Police Leadership

• President Patrick Yoes, National Fraternal Order of Police — The Truth About Crime, Police Unions, and Public Safety

• Sheriff Mark Lamb, Pinal County (AZ) — Fear Not, Do Right

• Chief Renee Hall, Dallas (TX) Police Department — Policing’s Toughest Conversations

• Chief Bryan Rippee, Texas Highway Patrol — Protecting Those Who Protect Us

• Sheriff John Allen, Bernalillo County (NM) — Common Sense Over Politics

• Chief Kevin Davis, Fairfax County (VA) Police Department — Rising Trust and Falling Crime

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New data shows there were approximately 11,500 shootings within 500 yards of U.S. K–12 schools in 2025—an average of 31 incidents per day—impacting more than 10,000 schools nationwide, or about 8% of all schools. Over the past decade, roughly 26% of schools have experienced at least one nearby shooting, with about 4,500 people killed by gunfire near schools last year. While incidents have declined from pandemic-era peaks, the data underscores how frequently gun violence still occurs in close proximity to schools across both urban and rural communities. 🔗 More here

U.S. Guns Fuel Cartels

Authorities estimate that between 500,000 and as many as one million firearms are trafficked from the United States into Mexico each year, with about 80% of weapons recovered at crime scenes in Mexico traced back to U.S. sources. U.S. enforcement efforts have intercepted a small portion of that flow, with the ATF reporting just over 4,300 firearms seized over the past 14 months despite the scale of trafficking. The pipeline often begins with legal purchases at U.S. gun stores, shows, and private sales, then moves through networks using straw buyers, online marketplaces, and smuggling methods such as hidden vehicle compartments, private planes, and boats, making the supply chain difficult to disrupt. 🔗 More here

Older Drivers Debate

There is no national standard for older driver licensing, with each state setting its own renewal rules and testing requirements. Data shows older Americans are driving more than ever, and while their crash rates have declined over the past 25 years, risk increases again after age 80; by comparison, teenagers and drivers in their 20s have the highest crash rates overall. A study cited in the report, based on more than 19 million drivers across 13 states over two decades, found higher crash rates among drivers ages 65–74 in states that loosened renewal requirements, highlighting mixed evidence as states balance safety and mobility. 🚙 More here 

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Threats to Lawmakers Rising

Threats against members of Congress continue to increase, with U.S. Capitol Police investigating nearly 15,000 concerning statements and threats last year—a 58% increase over the prior year—according to . Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan told lawmakers the department is on pace to exceed that number this year, calling the situation a growing “threat environment.” The agency is seeking its first-ever budget exceeding $1 billion as its mission expands, including providing security support for lawmakers beyond Washington, D.C., through mutual aid agreements in all 50 states. 🔗 More here

New Podcast Live

In this episode, Sheriff Dennis Lemma of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership and service. He reflects on rising through the ranks, from correctional officer to sheriff, and shares how that journey has shaped the way he leads today. Sheriff Lemma also discusses the opioid epidemic, the importance of addressing root causes, and why he believes mental health is the next major challenge public safety must confront.

Judge vs. Police on Release

A Las Vegas judge ordered the release of a defendant with 35 prior arrests to an electronic monitoring program, despite police declining to place him in the program over safety concerns. Las Vegas Metro police said the defendant’s history includes prior bench warrants, failures to appear, and violations of the monitoring program, and argued Nevada law gives the sheriff authority to deny release if it poses “an unreasonable risk to public safety.” Sheriff Kevin McMahill said, “The safety of our officers is paramount… the safety of the public is key,” adding his office “will not violate the law… and let out people who he deems to be dangerous.” 🔗 More here

UK Launches Police AI Center

The UK is launching a new £115 million ($145 million USD) national center, “Police.AI,” to scale the use of artificial intelligence across policing, according to . Officials say the effort could free up the equivalent of 3,000 officers by automating administrative work, speeding investigations, and expanding tools like facial recognition and call transcription. The center will standardize, test, and deploy AI tools across all 43 police forces in England and Wales while also creating a public-facing registry to increase transparency and public trust. 🇬🇧 More here

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Drones and Crime Decline

San Francisco police report a sustained decline in crime and credit new technology, including drones and license plate readers, as contributing factors, with drones assisting in more than 1,000 arrests since their deployment in April 2024. The department currently operates 80 drones and 400 license plate readers as part of its Real-Time Investigation Center, which supports live monitoring and response to incidents. Car break-ins previously peaked at more than 28,000 reported cases in 2017, and the drone program was approved by voters in 2024 with 54% support. 📉 More here

The Origin of TASER

It starts with two brothers who fought so much as kids their parents gave them oversized boxing gloves just to manage the chaos — the same grit that later kept their company alive through moments that would have ended most startups. In this episode of Boldly Go, Tom and Rick Smith share the untold early days of TASER, from risky product tests (including the original pool demo) to near-arrest at LAX, fleeing Italy, and discovering a last-minute legal loophole that moved the company to Mexico and saved it. They also reflect on the moment their father told them they had “one more shot” — a line that defined what came next. And yes, we get into one of the most asked questions: can a TASER take down a bull — and what happens when it gets back up?

Two terrorism-related attacks in Michigan and Virginia on March 12 intensified concerns about threats to public gathering spaces in the U.S., according to CNN. In Michigan, a Lebanese-born U.S. citizen rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a synagogue in West Bloomfield while more than 100 children were inside, injuring a security guard and setting part of the building on fire. In Virginia, a former National Guard member and convicted ISIS supporter opened fire inside an ROTC classroom at Old Dominion University, killing Lt. Col. Brandon Shah and injuring two students before cadets subdued him. Federal officials say the attacks do not appear connected, but they come amid a heightened threat environment tied to broader geopolitical tensions and renewed concerns about security at religious institutions and schools. 🔗 More here

Alleged Iran Drone Threat

An FBI intelligence bulletin says Iran allegedly aspired to launch a surprise drone attack from a vessel off the U.S. coast targeting locations in California if the United States carried out strikes against Iran. Officials emphasized the information was unverified but shared with law enforcement as a precaution amid heightened tensions.

NYPD Officers Hailed Heroes

Two NYPD officers are being praised for quickly intervening after suspects attempted to deploy explosive devices during protests outside Gracie Mansion, according to WABC. Assistant Chief Aaron Edwards and Sgt. Luis Navarro rushed toward a suspect who lit a fuse and dropped a smoking canister near a crowd, warning bystanders and chasing the individuals as the devices failed to detonate. Police arrested two suspects, ages 18 and 19, who investigators say were inspired by ISIS and allegedly planned to target anti-Muslim demonstrators, highlighting ongoing concerns about extremist threats at public gatherings. 🔗 More here

Medicaid Helps Reentry

A new federal policy now allows Medicaid to pay for certain health care and reentry services for incarcerated people up to 90 days before their release, helping jails and prisons better prepare individuals for the transition back into the community, according to The New York Times. The change addresses a long-standing gap in care that often left people without medications, treatment, or support immediately after release—a period when risks of overdose, relapse, and death are significantly higher. Twenty-seven states have sought or received federal approval to implement the policy, with California already enrolling tens of thousands of inmates through its Medi-Cal program. Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Jonsen called the shift “fantastic and long overdue,” noting that stabilizing people before release can improve public safety and create safer environments inside correctional facilities. 🔗 More here

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Thieves Target AI Hardware

Cargo theft in the United States is increasingly focused on high-value technology tied to the AI boom, with criminals stealing shipments of advanced chips, RAM modules, and server hardware worth millions, according to The Washington Post. Industry data shows cargo theft losses jumped 60% last year to about $725 million, with thieves using more sophisticated tactics such as fake trucking companies, fraudulent shipping paperwork, and supply-chain infiltration to divert loads before companies realize they’re missing. Investigators say organized criminal groups are increasingly involved as the rapid growth of AI data centers drives demand—and value—for specialized computing hardware. 🚚 More here

Chief Makes Arrest

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis personally detained a suspect after witnessing an unprovoked assault at the city’s Central Library that left a victim in critical condition, according to CBS Austin. Police say 30-year-old Daniel Vasquez struck a man seated at a computer, knocking him unconscious before allegedly stomping on the victim’s head multiple times. Davis was at the library for a community meeting when the attack occurred and held the suspect until officers arrived. Vasquez was later booked into the Travis County Jail on a charge of aggravated assault with serious bodily injury as the investigation continues. 🔗 More here

Trooper Killed During Traffic Stop

A Pennsylvania State Police trooper was shot and killed during a traffic stop Sunday night after pulling over a driver reported for erratic driving, according to the Associated Press. Authorities said the suspect fired from inside the vehicle as Corporal Tim O’Connor approached the car. “Anybody you talk to tells you what a great guy he was,” said acting State Police Commissioner George Bivens during a late-night news conference. The gunman then exited the vehicle, walked a short distance away, and fatally shot himself. O’Connor, a 15-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police who was married with a young daughter, was pronounced dead at a hospital. 🖤💙 More here

Chief Search Narrows

Albuquerque officials have narrowed their search for the next police chief to three finalists following a nationwide recruitment effort, according to KOAT. The candidates include Dallas Assistant Police Chief Gilberto Garza, Albuquerque Interim Chief Cecily Barker, and former Seattle Assistant Police Chief Perry Tarrant. City leaders say 19 applicants initially sought the position, and public input from more than 1,000 residents helped shape the priorities for selecting the department’s next leader, with a final decision expected by the end of the month. 🚓 More here

Robotaxi Safety Forum

Federal regulators will host a national forum with the CEOs of Waymo, Zoox, and Aurora to discuss safety and regulatory issues surrounding self-driving vehicles. The meeting will explore topics such as robotaxi performance, remote assistance, and future guidance as the U.S. considers how to accelerate autonomous vehicle deployment while maintaining safety oversight. 🤖 More here

Philadelphia Sues Glock

The City of Philadelphia and District Attorney Larry Krasner have filed a lawsuit against gun manufacturer Glock, alleging the company has contributed to gun violence by promoting or enabling the use of illegal “switches” that convert semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic weapons, according to FOX 29 Philadelphia. The lawsuit claims Glock’s marketing and social media demonstrations have helped normalize the devices—also known as auto sears—which can allow a handgun to fire up to 1,200 rounds per minute. City officials are seeking civil penalties and a court order blocking what they describe as “deceptive” or “predatory” marketing tied to the modifications, which have been linked to shootings in the city. Mayor Cherelle Parker said the company has “prioritized profit over the safety of its users and the general public,” while Glock had not publicly responded to the lawsuit at the time of the report. 🔗 More here

PERF at 50

The Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) is marking its 50th anniversary, reflecting on its founding in 1976 by 10 police chiefs who sought to advance policing through research, professional leadership, and open debate. Since then, PERF has played a major role in shaping modern policing practices—from problem-oriented policing and use-of-force reforms to leadership development and national policy discussions—while continuing to promote innovation and accountability in law enforcement. 📖 More here

Coming This Week

Dropping this week, Seminole County (FL) Sheriff Dennis Lemma joins The Briefing Room for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, policing today, and the challenges facing sheriffs’ offices across the country. It’s a candid discussion about what it takes to lead in a complex environment and how agencies are adapting to new expectations and technologies.

🎙️ To catch up on all podcasts with local, county, and state police leaders, click here.

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U.S. security officials warn that Iran represents a “multi-dimensional threat” to the homeland as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies, according to CBS News. Former counterterrorism officials say potential risks could include cyberattacks, proxy operations, or plots carried out by individuals recruited inside the United States, including criminal networks paid to conduct attacks or assassinations. While authorities emphasize that law enforcement and intelligence agencies have spent decades monitoring these threat streams, experts say the current environment requires heightened vigilance from both government agencies and the public as officials watch for possible retaliatory actions. 🔗 More here

TATP Explosive Device

Police say an improvised explosive device was thrown during dueling protests outside Gracie Mansion, the New York City mayor’s residence, prompting a terrorism investigation, according to NBC News. The device, described as a jar wrapped in tape and packed with nuts, bolts, and a hobby fuse, contained a compound believed to be TATP — a highly volatile homemade explosive. Two men, ages 18 and 19, were taken into custody, and investigators say one referenced ISIS during questioning as authorities from the NYPD, FBI, and Joint Terrorism Task Force continue examining the incident. 🔗 More here

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FBI Network Breach

The FBI confirmed its networks were targeted by suspicious cyber activity discovered in February after abnormal log data was detected on a system used for surveillance tools and investigative data, according to CBS News. The affected system, known as the Digital Collection System, contains law enforcement–sensitive information including pen register and trap-and-trace data used to track phone numbers and IP addresses during investigations. Officials have not identified the actor behind the incident and say remediation efforts are ongoing as investigators assess the scope and whether any information was compromised. 💾 More here

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D.C. Homicides Drop

Washington, D.C. began 2026 with nearly three weeks without a homicide — the longest stretch to start a year in decades — as violent crime continues to decline following a surge in 2023, according to The Washington Post. Police data show major crime categories, including robberies, carjackings, burglaries, and vehicle thefts, have fallen to or below pre-pandemic levels, with carjackings dropping sharply compared with recent years. Officials attribute the improvement to a combination of factors, including increased arrests and case clearances, federal law enforcement support, and expanded community-based violence intervention efforts, though experts caution the causes of crime trends are complex and still evolving. 🔗 More here

Repeat Offender Initiative

Louisville officials have launched a new initiative targeting repeat offenders who authorities say drive a disproportionate share of violent crime, according to WDRB. Data tied to the effort shows 581 repeat offenders were linked to 709 felony cases and nearly 1,800 felony charges in 2025, highlighting how a relatively small group accounts for a significant portion of crime. The program will bring together law enforcement, prosecutors and community partners to coordinate enforcement, intervention and rehabilitation efforts aimed at reducing repeat offending and improving public safety. 🔗 More here

Ballistics Tech Expands

Fort Wayne police are using advanced ballistic analysis technology to link shootings and identify gun offenders more quickly, according to WANE 15. The city’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center uses the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze microscopic markings on shell casings and connect firearms to multiple crime scenes. Detectives entered more than 1,400 shell casings into the system in 2025, generating over 130 investigative leads and helping strengthen cases against violent offenders. Officials say the technology — combined with partnerships between local police and the ATF — is already contributing to a decline in shootings compared with the same period last year. 🔗 More here

CGIC Grant Webinar

BJA will host a live webinar on March 10 to discuss the FY25 Local Law Enforcement Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC) Integration Initiative funding opportunity. The session will provide an overview of the grant program, which supports local agencies using ballistic intelligence tools and partnerships—such as NIBIN and ATF collaboration—to better identify shooters and link gun crimes. BJA officials will also walk through the application process. 📺 More here

Cocaine Cowboys to County Sheriff

Few leaders have seen the profession from as many angles as Loudoun County (VA) Sheriff Mike Chapman. Elected in 2011 and now serving his fourth term, he brings perspective shaped by 48 years in law enforcement. Before becoming sheriff, he worked major drug investigations with the DEA in Miami during the “cocaine cowboy” era and later served alongside international law enforcement partners in Pakistan and across Asia. In the latest episode of The Briefing Room, Sheriff Chapman reflects on the experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy — from high-risk federal investigations to leading a large sheriff’s office in one of the fastest-growing counties in America.

Mullin for DHS

President Donald Trump has nominated Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin to serve as Secretary of Homeland Security following the dismissal of Kristi Noem, according to PBS News/AP. Mullin, a former plumbing company owner, citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and former mixed-martial arts fighter, first entered Congress in 2012 and won his Senate seat in 2022. Known as one of Trump’s most outspoken defenders, Mullin said he would focus the department on “protecting the homeland” if confirmed. The role would place him in charge of a massive agency responsible for border security, immigration enforcement, cybersecurity, and domestic counterterrorism at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and homeland security concerns. 🔗 More here

AI in Policing

Police departments are increasingly using artificial intelligence tools to help identify suspects and analyze crime data, including systems that can scan license plate reader images and flag vehicles linked to crimes within seconds, according to WPVI. At the Camden County Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center, AI helps process thousands of images to detect stolen vehicles, illegal dumping, and other offenses more quickly than traditional investigative methods. Supporters say the technology can improve efficiency and investigations, while critics emphasize the need for transparency, clear policies, and safeguards to address concerns about civil liberties and potential errors from AI-generated information. 🤖 More here

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Former Austin Chief Named

The city of Taylor, Texas, has selected former Austin Police Chief Joseph Chacon to lead its police department, according to KVUE. Chacon, a 31-year law enforcement veteran who served with the Austin Police Department for 25 years and was chief from 2021 to 2023, will replace longtime chief Henry Fluck, who retired last fall. Chacon most recently served as director of emergency services for the city of Pflugerville and said he looks forward to helping guide public safety in the rapidly growing community. The Taylor City Council is expected to formally confirm the appointment later this month. 👮‍♂️ More here

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A UNC-Chapel Hill researcher has launched the Carolina Blue Project, a study examining how job stress drives unhealthy eating and elevated heart disease risk among law enforcement officers, according to UNC Research. Data from the project — which has enrolled more than 600 officers across 56 North Carolina counties — shows that U.S. police officers have the highest risk of developing and dying from heart disease of any occupation, with 10% of all on-duty fatalities attributable to sudden cardiac death. Initial findings from the first phase revealed that roughly 60% of participating officers were obese and nearly one in five had high blood pressure, with officers reporting higher levels of anti-police sentiment, PTSD, and fear of victimization significantly more likely to engage in binge and loss-of-control eating. ❤️‍🩹 More here

Austin Mass Shooting

A mass shooting in downtown Austin’s popular West Sixth Street bar district left three dead and 14 injured in the early morning hours Sunday, with the FBI investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism, according to Axios Austin. The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal, was shot and killed by officers after driving around the block multiple times before opening fire on patrons at Buford’s Bar with a pistol, then exiting his vehicle and firing a rifle at pedestrians. Investigators found “indicators” on the suspect and in his vehicle suggesting a potential nexus to terrorism; he was wearing a sweatshirt reading “Property of Allah” and a shirt bearing an Iranian flag design. Three of the 14 hospitalized victims remain in critical condition, and the FBI said it is too early to determine an exact motive. 🔗 More here

Iran Threat: Homeland on Alert

Following U.S. and Israeli strikes that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security have moved to a heightened counterterrorism posture, warning of potential retaliatory attacks on U.S. soil, according to USA Today. FBI Director Kash Patel has directed the bureau’s 200-plus Joint Terrorism Task Forces nationwide to mobilize around the clock, while DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said her department is closely monitoring potential domestic threats. Experts note that Iran has a 46-year history of carrying out or plotting attacks on U.S. soil, and that U.S. authorities have disrupted at least 17 Iranian plots domestically since the 2020 killing of General Qassem Soleimani — including assassination plots against President Trump and former National Security Adviser John Bolton. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly vowed retaliation, and three American service members have already been killed in the ongoing conflict overseas. Federal officials are also warning of potential Iranian-backed cyberattacks against U.S. networks. 🔗 More here

AI Chatbots Duty to Warn

A growing debate over whether AI chatbot companies have a duty to warn law enforcement when users discuss plans for violence has gained urgency following two high-profile cases, according to the New York Times. In January 2025, Matthew Livelsberger used ChatGPT to research explosive materials before detonating a bomb-laden Cybertruck outside a Las Vegas hotel; OpenAI only provided chat logs to investigators after the attack. More troublingly, OpenAI’s internal monitoring system flagged a Canadian user, Jesse Van Rootselaar, in June 2025 for discussing gun violence, but the company determined there was no imminent credible threat and banned the account without notifying police — Van Rootselaar went on to kill eight people, including children, in British Columbia this month. The cases have sparked debate among legal experts, former law enforcement, and tech industry insiders over whether chatbot companies bear an ethical or legal obligation to report suspicious activity, with some calling for mandatory suspicious-activity reporting similar to requirements placed on banks, while others warn such mandates could overwhelm law enforcement and raise constitutional concerns. 🔗 More here

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Trooper Killed by Repeat DWI Driver

A North Carolina State Highway Patrol trooper was killed early Sunday morning when a wrong-way driver struck his patrol vehicle head-on, according to the News & Observer. Master Trooper Steven J. Perry, 30, a six-year veteran, died at the scene along with the other driver, 39-year-old Melshawn Moore, who investigators suspect was impaired at the time of the crash. Court records show Moore had been convicted of driving while impaired at least three times in North Carolina, and traffic citations ranging from reckless driving to open container violations had been dismissed in at least six separate cases dating back to 2010. 💙🖤 More here

Deputy Killed During Traffic Stop

A Bernalillo County (NM) Sheriff’s Office sergeant was killed in the line of duty Monday evening when a semi-truck struck the rear of his patrol vehicle while he was conducting a traffic stop, pinning him underneath and killing him at the scene, according to KOAT Action 7 News. Sergeant Michael Schlattman, a 14-year veteran of the department who had been promoted to sergeant in 2024, had served in special investigations, auto theft, and as a task force officer with both the U.S. Marshals Service and the DEA prior to his death. 💙🖤 More here

World Cup Security in Jeopardy

With just over 100 days until the FIFA World Cup kicks off, local officials from U.S. host cities warned Congress that frozen federal funding, inadequate coordination, and emerging threats — including drones, human trafficking, and cartel violence near Mexican host cities — are putting security planning at serious risk, according to ESPN. The federal government had earmarked $625 million for security across 11 host cities, but an 11-day freeze on Homeland Security funding has halted disbursement; Miami officials warned that without roughly $70 million in federal funds, late March marks a “drop dead date” for canceling Fan Fest events, while Kansas City officials said they lack sufficient staffing to cover all security threats. The National Fusion Center Association president testified that coordination between local agencies and the federal government remains far short of what is needed at this stage of planning. ⚽️ More here

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Pod: From Dispatcher to Chief

Chief Stephen Redfearn of the Boulder Police Department joins the podcast to reflect on a remarkable law enforcement career that began as a teenage dispatcher. He shares firsthand insights from responding to landmark tragedies such as Columbine, the Aurora theater shooting, and more recent acts of mass violence, including the Pearl Street terror attack in Boulder. He talks about how those experiences have shaped him, the impact on officer wellness, and the importance of community trust. The conversation also explores Boulder’s innovative use of technology and AI—from AI report writing to drones and the use of transparency dashboards—and why, even in an era of rapid technological change, policing remains a deeply human profession.

Cartel Drones Become Flashpoint

The growing use of drones by Mexican cartels has become a flashpoint in U.S.-Mexico relations, brought into focus by the temporary closure of El Paso’s airport last week, according to Reuters. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy attributed the closure to a cartel drone incursion, but government and airline officials later said the FAA shut the airspace due to risks from a U.S. Army counter-drone system being tested nearby. The Pentagon reports more than 1,000 drone incursions along the border each month, with cartels primarily using commercial drones to drop drugs and surveil border agents; experts note there has never been a confirmed cartel drone attack on U.S. soil. The episode comes amid repeated statements by President Trump about potential unilateral military action against cartels, with a DHS official previously warning Congress it is “only a matter of time” before law enforcement is targeted. 🔗 More here

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A Los Angeles Department of Water and Power-owned electrical substation near Boulder City, Nevada — a facility that transfers power from Hoover Dam to the Los Angeles Basin — was rammed by a vehicle early Saturday morning in what investigators are treating as a terrorism-related incident, according to ABC7. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Dawson Maloney of Albany, New York, shot and killed himself after the crash. Investigators recovered multiple weapons, including a flamethrower, from his vehicle, and found explosive gas and books related to extremist ideologies — including right- and left-wing extremism, environmental extremism, white supremacy, and anti-government ideology — in his hotel room. Maloney had driven cross-country from Albany in the days prior and sent a message to his mother referring to himself as a “dead terrorist son,” stating he felt obligated to carry out the act; he was also found wearing soft body armor. ☠️ More here

Intruder Shot at Mar-a-Lago

A 21-year-old North Carolina man, Austin Tucker Martin, was shot and killed by Secret Service agents and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputies early Sunday morning after breaching the perimeter of Mar-a-Lago armed with what appeared to be a shotgun and a fuel canister, according to the New York Times. Officers ordered Martin to drop the items; he set down the canister but raised the shotgun to a “shooting position,” at which point he was fatally shot. President Trump was not at the property at the time of the incident, which occurred around 1:30 a.m. Martin, a recent high school graduate from Cameron, N.C., had started a golf course illustration business in 2025 and was described by a cousin as coming from a family of “big Trump supporters.” His family had been posting on social media throughout the weekend that he was missing, unaware he had already been killed. Authorities have not yet determined where he obtained the weapon or established a clear motive. 🔗 More here

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Badge, Bets, Betrayal

New Haven, Connecticut Police Chief Karl Jacobson was arrested Friday and charged with two counts of first-degree larceny after investigators say he embezzled up to $85,500 in public funds — the bulk of it drawn from a confidential informant fund — while placing approximately $4.46 million in online bets through DraftKings and FanDuel between January 2025 and January 2026, resulting in a net gambling loss of over $214,000, according to the New York Times. Jacobson, a 15-year department veteran who rose to chief in 2022, was placed on administrative leave by Mayor Justin Elicker in January after admitting to misusing city funds, but retired the same day; his resignation drew scrutiny from Connecticut’s Gaming Division, which subpoenaed records from multiple platforms. In a secretly recorded confrontation, Jacobson admitted to the theft and the gambling, asked colleagues to falsify records, and attributed the escalating behavior to addiction, saying he had previously struggled with alcohol and had “turned to gambling.” 🎰 More here

No Termination for Detroit Officers

Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison reversed his decision to fire two officers who coordinated with federal Border Patrol agents in violation of department policy, according to the Detroit Free Press. After the city’s police oversight board voted unanimously to suspend the officers without pay for 30 days, Bettison said he was satisfied with the board’s decision and would not pursue termination. The reversal came after one of the officers — a 27-year veteran sergeant — filed a federal lawsuit arguing that department policies restricting contact with federal immigration authorities violate federal law prohibiting local governments from limiting communication with immigration officials; the suit also contends the sergeant contacted Border Patrol not to enforce immigration law, but to verify the identity of a person who presented a fraudulent Michigan driver’s license. DHS and ICE publicly praised the officers on social media, with ICE calling them “American heroes,” while Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield’s office said she supports the chief’s decision and respects the oversight board’s authority on disciplinary matters. 🔗 More here

Vegas Police Build AI “Brain”

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is developing what it calls an “AI brain” — a real-time system designed to connect internal databases, crime trends, and suspect histories — and expects to be among the first law enforcement agencies in the country to deploy the technology, according to KSNV. Sheriff Kevin McMahill announced the plans during the department’s annual State of the Department address, saying the system will accelerate investigations, shorten internal affairs reviews, and help prevent crime before it occurs. 🧠 More here

London Police Use AI Monitoring

Scotland Yard has confirmed it is using artificial intelligence tools developed by Palantir to monitor Metropolitan Police officers’ behavior — analyzing sickness levels, absences, and overtime patterns to identify potential misconduct, according to The Guardian. The time-limited pilot draws on data from multiple internal databases, with the force stating there is evidence linking unusual patterns in those areas to failures in standards and culture; officials emphasized that human officers make all final determinations. The Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, sharply criticized the program as “automated suspicion,” warning that algorithmic tools risk misinterpreting heavy workloads or illness as indicators of wrongdoing and called for reliance on human judgment and fair processes instead. 🔗 More here

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Historic Crime Drop Nationwide

Violent crime fell dramatically across the United States in 2025, with experts expecting it to be the sharpest single-year drop in homicides in recorded history, according to The Hill. Data from the Major Cities Chiefs Association — covering 67 agencies — shows homicides down 19.3%, robbery down 19.8%, and aggravated assault down 9.7% from 2024 to 2025; similar findings were reported by the Council on Criminal Justice across 40 large American cities. The decline marks the fourth consecutive year of falling crime following a record spike during the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts debate the cause, with some attributing the trend to pandemic-era federal funding that helped communities hire more police officers and support staff, while the Trump administration credits aggressive law enforcement, border security, and deportation of violent offenders. The FBI has not yet published its official 2025 crime statistics, but findings are expected to align with both reports. 📉 More here

Milwaukee Gun Violence

Milwaukee is experiencing a sharp rise in gun violence over the past several weeks that is alarming even those dedicated to stopping it, according to FOX6 News Milwaukee. Police responded to three separate shootings within minutes of each other early Saturday morning, leaving three dead and two injured, including 38-year-old Kelvin Bonds Jr. and his younger cousin, shot and killed near 6th and Vienna. Stephen Hopkins, a program manager with the city’s Department of Community Wellness and Safety, said the volume of firearms on the streets is unlike anything he has seen, adding that prevention advocates are now focused on unifying efforts across multiple organizations to address the crisis before it escalates further. 🔗 More here

Cold Weather Drives Transit Crime

New York City’s subway system has seen an 11% uptick in transit crime so far in 2026, which the NYPD is attributing to record cold temperatures driving more people into the transit system, according to CBS New York. Despite the increase, the department noted transit crime remains down 7.5% from two years ago, and that the spike amounts to roughly six index crimes per day across a system used by millions of riders daily. The surge drew public attention after two women and a teenager were randomly attacked in Brooklyn, with one pushed onto the subway tracks, prompting the department to add additional officers throughout the system in response. 🚃 More here

Indiana Officer Shot and Killed

Beech Grove, Indiana, police officer Brian Elliot was killed and a second officer was wounded in a shooting. It happened as officers were responding to a report of a domestic disturbance. Indiana State Police identified the suspect in the shooting as 47-year-old Kenneth Johnson. He was taken into custody by IMPD SWAT officers.

Drunk Driver Kills DC Officer

Newly obtained video shows the aftermath of a crash that killed Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer Terry Bennett, a 32-year-old eight-year veteran who was struck and killed while assisting a motorist on I-695, according to NBC4 Washington. The driver, Jerrold Coates, had a blood alcohol content of 0.16 — twice the legal limit — and also had marijuana in his system at the time of the crash; surveillance footage shows him speeding and weaving through traffic moments before striking Bennett, who was thrown approximately 22 feet. In a jailhouse interview, Coates acknowledged drinking but said he didn’t believe he was impaired. He has been charged with second-degree murder while armed and is being held without bond pending trial. 🔗 More here

North Carolina Trooper Killed

A North Carolina Highway Patrol trooper was killed early Sunday morning after losing control of his patrol vehicle while on duty in Robeson County, according to WSOC-TV. Master Trooper Stein Davis, Jr., a member of the 141st Basic Patrol School, drove off the road and overturned in a swampy area; he was pronounced dead shortly after midnight. The crash remains under investigation, and officials said information on a memorial service is forthcoming. 💙🖤💙 More here

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Federal investigators have identified a growing threat termed nihilistic violent extremism, characterized by a fundamental hatred of society and a desire to trigger the collapse of civilization through indiscriminate chaos. According to The Washington Post, this emerging strain of violence lacks a traditional political or religious agenda, with many young assailants radicalized in online subcultures that venerate mass killers as romanticized loners or “saints”. The internet serves as a primary catalyst, providing solitary individuals with technical expertise for attacks—such as drone-delivered explosives—while fostering a sense of community among those who believe society is beyond repair. High-profile cases include a 15-year-old in Madison who authored a “War Against Humanity” manifesto and a Wisconsin teenager who murdered his parents as part of an “accelerationist” plot to overthrow the government. ☠️ More here

Canadian School Shooting

Authorities have identified all eight victims of a mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., which stands as the second deadliest school shooting in Canadian history. According to CBC News, 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar—who was born a male and began transitioning six years ago—first killed her mother and 11-year-old half-brother at their home before driving to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where she fatally shot five children aged 12 and 13 and one educator. Police engaged the shooter within two minutes of arriving at the school, where she was found deceased from a self-inflicted wound alongside a long gun and a modified handgun that was not legally registered. While a formal motive has not been established, RCMP officials noted a significant history of mental health-related calls to the residence and revealed the shooter had been previously apprehended for assessment under the Mental Health Act. 🇨🇦 🖤 More here

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Causes of Police Shootings

In an upcoming issue of Critical Issues in Policing, Dr. Justin Nix conducts an analysis of officer-involved shootings in the United States, noting that recent data-driven research offers a more nuanced perspective on the causes of these encounters. According to Professor Nix, situational variables—specifically the presence of a weapon and the level of suspect resistance—are the primary drivers of an officer’s decision to use deadly force, often carrying more weight than demographics in real-world scenarios. While data shows that Black Americans are overrepresented in fatal shootings relative to their share of the population, Professor Nix explains that this disparity largely disappears when benchmarked against involvement in violent crime, illustrating how methodological choices shape the public perception of bias. His findings emphasize the role of organizational accountability, noting that agencies with stricter reporting requirements for pointing a firearm see fewer fatal outcomes, and he advocates for viewing these incidents as preventable system failures rather than purely individual errors. 🔗 More here.

Pressures of National Investigations

Retired Moscow (ID) Police Chief James Fry recently highlighted the immense strain local law enforcement faces during high-profile cases like the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie, describing the spotlight as a force that can cost a leader their career if handled poorly. According to The New York Times, Fry admitted his own failure to communicate quickly during the 2022 University of Idaho murders and stressed that the massive influx of media and tips creates a “special type of pressure” that requires immediate transparency to maintain public trust. He noted significant parallels between the two cases—specifically the reliance on video footage and DNA analysis—and warned that while national attention can generate crucial leads, it also risks prompting hasty police work or the arrest of the wrong person. Despite the personal toll of such cases, including chronic anxiety and exhaustion, Fry maintained that the grueling effort is justified by the eventual resolution for the victims’ families. 🫆 More here

New BR Pod: Chief Redfearn

He was a teenage dispatcher when Columbine happened, a sergeant responding to the Aurora theater shooting, and chief when a terrorist attacked (using a flame thrower) a solidarity walk for the Israeli hostages. Hear Chief Steven Redfearn share his journey and lessons from these defining moments on the latest episode of The Briefing Room podcast. Click above to listen 👆…

ICE Partnerships Surge

The number of local law enforcement agencies deputized to make federal immigration arrests has skyrocketed by 950% this year, rising from 135 to 1,168 nationwide. According to NBC News, this rapid expansion of the “task force” model is driven by massive federal incentives, including $100,000 for new vehicles and up to $2 billion in total potential funding for participating departments. While Florida and Texas lead the country with a combined 638 agreements, major agencies in Dallas and Maryland have opted out, citing concerns over diverted resources and a primary focus on local public safety. Although the administration maintains these partnerships are vital for community safety, public disapproval of such tactics has reached 60% following a recent fatal shooting involving federal agents in Minnesota. 🔗 More here

LAPD to Record ICE

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has issued an executive directive requiring LAPD officers to activate and preserve body camera footage when present at federal immigration enforcement scenes. According to the Los Angeles Times, the policy aims to increase accountability during federal raids by requiring officers to document agent credentials and record any reports of misconduct. While the Department of Homeland Security criticized the move as a legally questionable interference with federal responsibility, local advocates and former officials questioned whether a short-staffed LAPD can effectively audit the massive amount of new video data this directive will generate. 📸 More here

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NYPD Upgrades to Taser 10

The NYPD will equip officers with the Taser 10 this year as part of a broader modernization effort announced by Commissioner Jessica Tisch during her annual State of the NYPD address. According to the New York Post, the new model offers a 45-foot range—nearly quadruple the 12-foot reach of current devices—and carries 10 individually targetable probes to increase accuracy in high-stress situations. Commissioner Tisch emphasized that the upgrade is intended to reduce lethal force encounters by allowing officers to resolve dangerous situations from a safer distance, while also transitioning the department from handwritten logbooks to a fully digital command system. Additionally, the department plans to revamp the 311 dispatch system and is seeking federal authority from the Trump administration to disable unauthorized drones near major city events. 🔫 More here

Laser Tech at Border

The U.S. government has begun deploying high-energy laser weapon systems near the southern border to neutralize a pervasive drone threat from cartels, though the initiative has sparked significant safety disagreements between federal agencies. According to CBS News, Customs and Border Protection used a palletized laser system earlier this week near El Paso, leading to a temporary flight ban due to FAA concerns over the safety of civilian aircraft and the potential for unintended targets. While the lasers provide an instantaneous method to disable drones used for narcotics and human smuggling, early domestic deployment resulted in at least one mistaken engagement of a party balloon. Experts note that these efforts are a key component of the administration’s “Golden Dome” initiative, which aims to defend the homeland from all air and missile threats through a layered defense system including radio frequency disruption and directed energy. 🔗 More here

When Bots Attack

Last week, I wrote about the need to rethink policing for the age of artificial intelligence. Just as Sir Robert Peel invented modern policing to bring order to the chaos of the Industrial Revolution, we face a new frontier: how do we police a world shaped by autonomous machines? A few days later, that argument stopped being theoretical.

A Denver-based engineer woke up last Wednesday to find an AI agent had published a lengthy blog post bullying him. The reason? He had rejected code the agent submitted to an open-source project. The bot accused him of hypocrisy and bias. Hours later, the bot issued an apology. When an AI system causes harm—who do you call?

In the physical world, if a stranger harasses you, breaks into your car, or threatens to harm you, you call 911. We have been trained for a century that when there is an emergency, you call for help and police show up. 🤖 Full Substack here

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Arizona authorities have identified Pilot Robert Skankey, 61, and Trooper-Paramedic Hunter Bennett, 28, as the two crew members killed when their Department of Public Safety (DPS) helicopter crashed. The crew of Ranger 52 was responding to a chaotic domestic violence call in Flagstaff, where a 50-year-old suspect had opened fire on officers with a semiautomatic rifle from a residential rooftop. The crash remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. 🖤💙 More here

States Restricting ICE Cooperation

Multiple states are moving to prohibit or limit local law enforcement participation in federal immigration enforcement through 287(g) agreements, which allow local agencies to assist federal authorities in identifying and detaining people suspected of being in the country illegally. Maryland lawmakers have passed legislation requiring local sheriffs to end such agreements, while several other states have already enacted restrictions or are considering similar measures. Supporters argue the bans prevent local police from being drawn into federal immigration enforcement, while federal officials contend cooperation improves public safety and reduces arrests conducted on neighborhood streets. Since early 2025, agreements between federal authorities and local agencies have expanded rapidly nationwide, intensifying debates over states’ roles in immigration enforcement and prompting additional legislative efforts to further limit cooperation or restrict data sharing with federal immigration authorities. 🔗 More here

Immigration Oversight Strategy

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis has detailed a new oversight protocol intended to balance the requirements of state law with the necessity of community trust. While emphasizing that the Austin Police Department does not proactively enforce federal immigration law or consider status when responding to calls, Davis noted that the department must comply with Texas Senate Bill 4, which prohibits local policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. To navigate these complex legal boundaries, the department now requires that a duty commander be notified whenever federal officials request assistance with administrative warrants. This senior ranking member makes the final determination on whether such assistance is “reasonable or necessary” after reviewing the totality of the circumstances. This strategic layer of accountability is designed to prevent unnecessary detentions while ensuring that the department’s critically limited resources—currently facing severe staffing shortages—remain focused on emergency response and the city’s most urgent safety needs. 📰 Op-ed here

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Milwaukee Bans Facial Recognition

Following a contentious public hearing, Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman announced a voluntary department-wide ban on the use and acquisition of facial recognition technology (FRT), effective immediately. The decision halts a proposed agreement with the data company Biometrica, which would have traded 2.5 million police mug shots for software licenses—a deal that drew over three hours of public testimony from residents and advocacy groups concerned about high misidentification rates among people of color and the potential for data misuse. While Chief Norman acknowledged FRT as a “useful technology to assist in generating leads,” he stated that maintaining public trust is “far more valuable” than the investigative benefits of the tool. However, the Milwaukee Police Association expressed deep disappointment, arguing that removing FRT—coupled with new restrictions on vehicle pursuits—unnecessarily limits law enforcement’s ability to solve violent crimes and protect the public. More here

New MCSA President

Last week, Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff Bob Gualtieri was sworn in as President of the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) during the association's Policy Conference in Washington, DC. Senator Rick Scott administered the oath of office to Gualtieri, who will lead the professional association for a two-year term representing the nation's largest sheriff's offices—those serving jurisdictions with populations of 400,000 or more. Gualtieri stated that the MCSA is well-positioned to impact national public safety through advocacy, policy priorities, and the collective expertise of its member sheriffs, who together serve a combined population of over 120 million citizens. 🔗 More here

Tucson Police Chief Retires

Tucson Police Chief Chad Kasmar has announced his retirement from law enforcement after 25 years of service to accept a role as deputy county administrator for Pima County beginning March 1, 2026. During his tenure as chief since 2021, Kasmar was credited with professionalizing the force and expanding the Community Service Officer program under the city’s Safe City Initiative. To ensure a smooth transition, City Manager Tim Thomure has appointed Deputy Chief Monica Prieto, a 26-year department veteran and Tucson native, to take over the leadership role. Prieto, who has served as the department’s number-two for the last three years, has stated that her primary goals include maintaining community trust and officer safety while continuing the collaborative safety strategies established by her predecessor. 🔗 More here

I’m Going to Jackson

Mayor John Horhn has nominated RaShall Brackney, a former Pittsburgh police commander with a Ph.D. in instructional management and leadership, to serve as the next chief of the Jackson Police Department. Brackney, who would be the third woman to lead the department, was selected following a months-long recruitment process triggered by the retirement of Joseph Wade in September 2025. Her career includes previous roles as police chief in Charlottesville, Virginia, and at George Washington University, as well as academic work at George Mason University focusing on police legitimacy and transparency. If confirmed by the Jackson City Council, Brackney will take over a department currently celebrating a decline in homicides to pre-pandemic levels while navigating internal shifts, including the recent departure of an assistant chief due to alleged political pressures. 🔗 More here

Major Cities Violent Crime Declines

Preliminary year-end data from the Major Cities Chiefs Association reveals a significant downward trend in violent crime across the United States and Canada in 2025. In the US, homicides plummeted by 19.3%, falling from 6,758 to 5,452, while robberies saw a nearly identical drop of 19.8%. According to the MCCA survey, which includes data from 67 of 68 responding U.S. agencies, other violent categories also experienced decreases, with rape down 8.8% and aggravated assault dropping by 9.7%. Major metropolitan areas saw substantial improvements, with Chicago recording 170 fewer homicides and New York City seeing a 27% reduction in homicides alongside a decrease in overall aggravated assaults. Canadian cities reflected this positive shift as well, reporting a 25.2% decrease in homicides and a 7.5% reduction in robberies. 📉 MCCA report here

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Fully Automatic Handgun Used

Early Sunday morning, Fall River (MA) police fatally shot 40-year-old Nigel Vaughn after he allegedly opened fire on officers with a Glock handgun modified with a “switch” to make it fully automatic. According to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn, the encounter began following a 911 call regarding an armed man in an SUV; when officers attempted a pat-down, Vaughn allegedly resisted violently and produced the modified weapon during the ensuing struggle. Vaughn allegedly fired multiple rounds at the officers, striking one in the elbow and another in his bullet-resistant vest before police returned fire. All involved officers have been discharged from the hospital, while Vaughn, a previously convicted gang member who had served a lengthy prison sentence for a 2005 double shooting, was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at a local medical center. 🔗 More here

Crisis Teams in Crisis

Mobile crisis response teams, which dispatch mental-health professionals instead of police to psychiatric emergencies, have significantly reduced police time spent on mental-health calls — nearly 80% in Bozeman, Montana — while helping people stay safely at home and avoiding unnecessary ER visits and jail bookings. Despite rapid national expansion to roughly 1,800 teams, many programs face closure because funding is inconsistent; Medicaid and private insurers often reimburse only portions of the service, leaving teams dependent on grants and short-term funding, creating instability for communities trying to build alternatives to police-led crisis response. 🔗 More here

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U.S. life expectancy reached an all-time high of 79 years in 2024, driven by a historic 26% drop in drug overdose deaths and a steady recovery from the pandemic. According to The Wall Street Journal, this rebound marks the first time American longevity has surpassed its pre-pandemic peak, with the most significant improvements seen among young adults aged 15–24, who experienced a 37% decline in overdose fatalities. While heart disease and cancer remain the top leading causes of death, COVID-19 has officially fallen out of the top 10, replaced by suicide as the 10th leading cause of mortality. Despite this milestone, health officials noted that the U.S. continues to lag behind peer nations due to stalled progress in cardiovascular health and persistent maternal mortality rates. 📊 More here

Doesn’t Make Sense

The Los Angeles Police Department will not enforce a new California law that bans federal law enforcement officers from wearing masks while on duty. According to KABC-TV, Police Chief Jim McDonnell criticized the “No Secret Police Act” as poor public policy, stating that having one armed agency confront another to create conflict “doesn’t make sense”. The ban was originally introduced following a series of Southern California immigration raids, but it is currently being challenged by the Trump Administration on the grounds of potential discrimination against federal agents. While McDonnell expressed frustration over how recent immigration enforcement has been handled, he emphasized that the LAPD remains aligned with federal partners on all other public safety matters. 🔗 More here

AI Propaganda Fuels Info Wars

The proliferation of sophisticated AI-generated videos depicting fake clashes between local police and federal immigration agents is creating a “perfect storm” for political propaganda. According to Gothamist, several unlabelled videos have recently gone viral showing AI-generated NYPD officers arresting and berating purported ICE agents in locations like Times Square and the New York City subway. While the NYPD does not participate in civil immigration enforcement and no such arrests have occurred, experts warn that the sheer volume of this “synthetic media” threatens to undermine public trust in legitimate video evidence. As both sides of the political spectrum increasingly leverage these tools to inflame divisions, the trend highlights a growing national challenge: an information landscape where it is becoming easier for the public to discount real content while being manipulated by high-tech fabrications. 🤖 More here

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Political Threats Reach High

Threats against members of Congress, their families, and staff surged to record levels in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of increases. According to POLITICO, the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) investigated 14,938 “concerning” incidents last year—a nearly 58% spike from the 9,474 cases handled in 2024. Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan attributed the rise to a “false sense of anonymity” in online messaging and stressed that decreasing violent political rhetoric is the most effective way to reverse this trend. To manage the growing danger, the USCP has tripled its formal security partnerships with local agencies nationwide and expanded its 24/7 Protective Intelligence Operations Center to monitor lawmaker safety outside of Washington. 🔗 More here

BR Pod: Chief Doreen Jokerst

On the Core Mission of Policing

“The reason why policing exists is to protect the vulnerable from harm. We want people to run to us for help, and not run away.” — Chief Jokerst.

🎙️Listen to my entire interview with Chief Jokerst above.

UK Police Major AI Overhaul

The UK Home Office has announced a radical restructuring of British policing, shifting from a fragmented 43-force model to a unified “National Police Service” (NPS) designed to centralize data and accelerate the rollout of AI and surveillance tools. According to Computer Weekly, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood intends to use this new service to coordinate a massive deployment of live facial-recognition (LFR) technology, increasing the number of dedicated mobile units from 10 to 50 nationwide while investing £115 million into the “Police.AI” hub to automate administrative burdens. While the government frames these reforms as an essential “standardization” to reclaim six million policing hours and keep pace with sophisticated digital crime, the plan has sparked intense debate over state overreach. The proposal has faced scrutiny from both civil liberties advocates and conservative lawmakers who argue that such a centralized "panopticon" model must be balanced by ironclad legal safeguards to prevent state overreach and protect fundamental British rights. 🇬🇧 More here

I receive a lot of great emails about the stories we cover (thank you 🙏) which has generated some great discussions. I’d love to move that discussion here, in the comments section. Please feel free to leave your thoughts to continue the conversation with our community of public safety leaders, technologists, and researchers.

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Aloha, Chief

The Hawaii County Police Commission has selected interim chief Reed Mahuna to permanently lead the department following a near-unanimous 9-1 vote. According to Hawaii News Now, Mahuna, a 28-year veteran of the force, has served as interim chief for five months and received overwhelming support from both the community and the police union. Mayor Kimo Alameda noted that Mahuna’s current experience leading the department and his strong relationships across city agencies set him apart from the other seven candidates. Upon his formal swearing-in, Mahuna stated his first priority will be establishing regular community engagement goals for his entire command staff to ensure the department is listening to and acting on the needs of local residents. 🌺 More here

New Indy-Metro Chief

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has appointed Tanya Terry as its new chief of police, making her the first woman to permanently lead the department in the city’s history. According to WFYI, Terry is a 27-year law enforcement veteran who previously served as IMPD’s deputy chief of operations and was a founding member of the city’s Violent Crimes Unit. Mayor Joe Hogsett highlighted that her leadership contributed to homicides reaching an eight-year low. 🔗 More here

Colonel Tracy Trott, RIP

Tracy George Trott, the retired Colonel of the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, marking the end of a legendary 40-year career in public safety. Trott’s law enforcement journey began in 1976 at the East Tennessee State University Police Department before he joined the THP in 1978. Throughout his four distinguished decades with the agency, he ascended through every rank to ultimately become Colonel, earning national acclaim for his rigorous professional standards and his innovative data-driven strategies to reduce highway fatalities. His leadership was defined by a deep devotion to the men and women of the THP and a relentless drive to improve officer safety.

(Editor’s Note: Colonel Trott was a good friend and mentor to many who read The Weekly Briefing, including me).

Shift in Police Mental Health

The growing emphasis on mental health within local law enforcement reflects a broader national trend of departments moving away from traditional "suck it up" cultures toward proactive wellness models. According to the Telegraph Herald, the unique psychological challenges of 21st-century policing—including the near-constant public scrutiny brought on by the expectation of immediate body camera footage—have led agencies to double down on professional support. While many departments now leverage federal grants for annual psychological check-ins to build resilience, smaller agencies in "sanctuary states" face significant hurdles as they are increasingly cut off from these federal resources due to political conflicts between state and federal administrations. 🔗 More here

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Camera Success in Parks

A multi-year pilot program in Austin city parks has yielded a significant reduction in property crime, specifically targeting the surge of vehicle burglaries. According to KVUE, security camera trailers deployed at 15 high-traffic park locations resulted in a greater than 50% drop in vehicle break-ins across the monitored sites. Beyond property theft, officials noted a general decrease in vandalism, drug violations, and simple assaults. The program maintains strict privacy guardrails, explicitly prohibiting the use of facial recognition or audio capture while ensuring all footage is purged after 60 days unless required for an active investigation. 🎥 More here

The Fast, the Slow, and the Furry

Beyond The Briefing

If you’ve been listening to the Boldly Go Podcast, you know Rick Smith and I are focused on navigating the seismic shifts of “What’s Next.” We have officially launched the Boldly Go Substack as the podcast’s digital companion—a place to move our private deep dives into a public community. While this newsletter keeps you grounded in weekly public safety updates, Boldly Go is where we explore the frontiers of technology, leadership, and human potential. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the ideas we’re talking about, starting with this Wednesday’s episode featuring Scale AI CEO Jason Droege. Subscribe here.

The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has issued a formal call for the White House to exercise its convening authority to address growing strains on the national public safety system. Expressing concern over “heightened tension” and deepening divisions, the IACP emphasized that effective policing requires measured rhetoric from officials to reinforce public trust and the rule of law. The association reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional protections against unreasonable searches while underscoring that officer safety is a fundamental priority inseparable from community safety. To identify a “constructive path forward,” the IACP advocates for high-level policy discussions between federal, state, and local law enforcement leaders grounded in proven practices and accountability. 🔗 More here

MN Chief Speaks Out

Planning for Peace

A new report from the RAND Corporation outlines practical guidance for promoting peaceful protests by emphasizing preparation before events, proportional and patient responses during demonstrations, and structured reflection afterward, according to RAND. Published January 22, 2026, the research highlights the importance of continuous communication, collaborative planning between law enforcement and community stakeholders, tactical patience and de-escalation during protests, and post-event reviews such as after-action reports and community debriefs to reduce tension, improve safety, and strengthen long-term trust. 🔗 Report here

Historic Crime Decline

A comprehensive year-end analysis by the Council on Criminal Justice of 40 large American cities reveals that 11 of 13 major offense categories decreased in 2025, with nine offenses seeing double-digit percentage declines. The most significant finding is a projected 21% drop in the national homicide rate, which researchers estimate could reach approximately 4.0 per 100,000 residents—the lowest rate ever recorded in law enforcement data dating back to 1900. Violent crime has largely returned to or fallen below 2019 levels, with dramatic reductions in gun assaults (-22%), carjackings (-43%), and robberies (-23%) over the last year. Property crime also saw a major reversal as motor vehicle thefts plummeted by 27% in 2025, following years of consistent increases. Drug offenses were the only category to rise, increasing by 7%. 📊 CCJ report here

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Precision Over Saturation

Metro Nashville Police Chief John Drake says Nashville’s falling crime rates stem from more targeted, “precision” policing rather than broad hotspot strategies, according to The Nashville Banner. In a wide-ranging interview marking his fifth year as chief, Drake pointed to focused units addressing motor vehicle theft, robberies, and non-lethal shootings, along with community advisory groups and victim-centered approaches, as key drivers behind declines in homicides, robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults. He argued that wider adoption of technology—especially license plate readers and integrated video—could further reduce crime and offset staffing shortages, while maintaining that MNPD does not engage in immigration enforcement beyond addressing criminal activity. 📉 More here

AI Meets Cold Cases

Police departments are increasingly using artificial intelligence to accelerate detective work by searching vast stores of digital evidence, helping advance cold cases, missing-person investigations, and trial preparation, according to Axios. Agencies in Alaska, Washington, and Pennsylvania are using AI tools from startups like Closure and Longeye to analyze jail calls, interviews, photos, and case files in minutes rather than weeks, easing investigative backlogs caused by data overload. While police leaders say the technology surfaces leads for human review rather than automating decisions, civil liberties groups warn the growing use of AI in core criminal justice processes raises concerns about transparency, bias, and accountability. 🫆 More here

Waymo Under Scrutiny

U.S. safety regulators have opened a new investigation into Waymo after its driverless taxis repeatedly passed stopped school buses in Austin, Texas, raising concerns about student safety, according to Reuters. The probe follows at least 19 reported incidents since the school year began and comes after Waymo recalled more than 3,000 vehicles to update software tied to the violations, even as the company maintains its autonomous system is improving and has not caused any collisions.

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A British FBI

The U.K. government plans to create a new National Police Service—informally dubbed the “British FBI”—to centralize complex investigations such as counterterrorism, fraud, online child abuse, and organized crime, according to ABC News. The new force would consolidate existing national and regional units, including counterterrorism functions and organized crime teams, with the aim of relieving pressure on the 43 local police forces in England and Wales so they can focus on day-to-day policing. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the current system is outdated, and that a single national force could improve expertise, attract specialized talent, and reduce costs through centralized procurement, with full proposals expected to be presented to Parliament this week. 🇬🇧 More here

FirstNet Competition Fight

Two major law enforcement groups are urging Congress to allow more competition for public safety network funding as FirstNet’s 2027 reauthorization approaches, according to Broadband Breakfast. The National Sheriffs’ Association and the Major Cities Chiefs Association argue that current rules favor AT&T, which operates FirstNet, and no longer reflect today’s public safety communications landscape, citing reliability concerns and the growth of alternatives from Verizon and T-Mobile. The debate comes ahead of a Senate hearing on the future of the FirstNet Authority and amid ongoing litigation involving spectrum access at the Federal Communications Commission. ☎️ More here

New Pod This Week

In this episode dropping this week, I sit down with Overland Park (KS) Police Chief Doreen Jokerst about police leadership, community trust, and the future of public safety. Chief Jokerst shares her guiding principle of “protecting the vulnerable from harm,” reflects on her path from the University of Colorado to leading one of Kansas’s largest departments, and discusses lessons from major events, mentorship, organizational culture, and the responsible use of technology and AI in policing.

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The deployment of 3,000 federal agents into Minneapolis has created an unprecedented standoff between the Trump administration’s immigration initiatives and local city leadership. According to 60 Minutes (60 Minutes), federal officials characterize “Operation Metro Surge” as a series of targeted actions designed to remove violent offenders and restore order. However, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara warned that the scale of the deployment—now five times larger than the city’s own police force—has pushed the city to a point where “it all explodes,” complicating local efforts to maintain public safety. While ICE leadership defends the professionalism of agents who have faced a massive surge in assaults, the friction has shifted into the legal arena, with the Justice Department now investigating whether local officials have engaged in criminal interference with federal law enforcement duties. (Click on video)

Overdose Deaths Drop

U.S. overdose deaths experienced a sustained decline throughout most of 2025, marking the longest downward trend in decades as the national crisis shows signs of lasting improvement. According to the Associated Press, an estimated 73,000 people died in the 12-month period ending in August 2025, a significant 21% drop compared to the 92,000 deaths recorded in the previous year. While deaths fell in 45 states, researchers are currently debating the drivers behind the improvement, with prominent theories pointing to a reduction in fentanyl potency following Chinese regulatory crackdowns on precursor chemicals and the end of pandemic-era stimulus payments. Despite the encouraging 27% “plummet” in deaths since their 2022 peak, experts caution that the monthly toll remains higher than pre-pandemic levels and that recent policy shifts, including the cancellation of federal mental health and addiction grants, could impact future momentum. 📉 More here

DHS Drone Shield

The Department of Homeland Security is launching a new counter-drone office backed by a $115 million investment to secure upcoming high-profile national events. According to The Hill, the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems will deploy advanced technology to protect the 2026 FIFA World Cup and various celebrations for the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem characterized drones as the “new frontier of American air superiority,” noting the technology will also be utilized to protect the country from drug cartels. This initiative comes as federal leadership prepares for more aggressive land-based strikes against cartels, prioritizing the safety of millions of visitors expected for the World Cup matches hosted across 12 major U.S. cities. 🛡️ More here

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Austin Police Avert Tragedy

Austin police officers successfully neutralized an armed threat in the downtown area, taking a suspect into custody without discharging their firearms. According to the “Chief’s Badge of Honor” series, officers responded to reports of a man brandishing a handgun. Using a combination of real-time camera surveillance and field coordination, they located the suspect. When Jones ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon, an officer made a split-second decision to transition to his TASER 10, safely incapacitating the suspect and recovering the firearm. This coordinated response has been highlighted by the department as a textbook example of de-escalation training and effective teamwork in high-stress, dangerous encounters.

McManus to Retire

San Antonio Police Chief William McManus announced he will retire by September 2026, concluding nearly two decades at the helm and marking the longest tenure in the city’s history. Over a law enforcement career spanning more than 50 years, McManus led departments in Minneapolis and Dayton after rising through the ranks of the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department. San Antonio officials and the local police union credited his “steady leadership” with driving down crime rates and fostering unprecedented levels of communication and community trust. McManus, who briefly retired once before in 2014, will remain in his post through the fall to oversee a smooth transition for the department. 🫡 More here

Catch Up on Podcasts….

Chief Tapped for COS

Indianapolis Police Chief Chris Bailey has been appointed as Mayor Joe Hogsett’s new Chief of Staff, transitioning from law enforcement to one of the most powerful administrative roles in city government. According to the Indianapolis Star, Bailey is credited with overseeing a significant decline in violence, including a drop in murders from 166 in 2024 to 133 in 2025. A veteran of the force since 1999, Bailey previously served in various leadership capacities and briefly headed the Asheville Police Department before returning to Indianapolis. His appointment comes at a critical time for the administration as it navigates a transition following the departure of the previous chief of staff and an ongoing grand jury investigation into prior city development deals and staff conduct. 👮‍♂️ More here

From Novelist to Chief

Syracuse Police Chief Joseph Cecile retired last week, concluding a 40-year career that began not as a lifelong ambition, but as a literary experiment to gather material for police novels. According to Police1, the English literature graduate originally joined the force in 1985 to gain authentic experiences for his writing, but he eventually “flipped a switch” and committed to the profession. Over four decades, he rose to the department’s highest rank, where he prioritized officer wellness and community-based foot patrols to curb gun violence. Having successfully led the agency through a period of historic crime declines and staffing challenges, Cecile plans to spend his retirement finally writing the chapters he spent forty years researching. 📚 More here

Remarkable Clearance Rate

The Columbus Division of Police achieved a remarkable 83% homicide clearance rate in 2025, significantly outperforming the national average. According to NBC4 , the department successfully solved 70 out of 84 homicide cases last year while also closing 30 cases from 2024 and 12 cold cases dating back to 2000. Chief Elaine Bryant and other police leaders credited the success to a combination of modern investigative genetic genealogy, a dedicated non-fatal shooting team, and a surge in community cooperation through tips and video evidence. This high-performing investigative streak underscores the department’s commitment to accountability and providing closure for families, even in cases that have remained cold for over two decades. 🫆🫆 More here

Denver Homicides Down

Denver recorded a dramatic 48% decrease in homicides in 2025, reaching its lowest total in decades. According to CBS Colorado, the city reported 37 homicides last year compared to 70 in 2024, representing the lowest tally since 1990. Police Chief Ron Thomas attributed this success to a proactive model that combines rapid officer response and life-saving medical intervention with targeted infrastructure investments like improved lighting and safer community spaces. While law enforcement partnered with local foundations to provide youth outreach and “peace walks,” the department is now shifting resources to address a separate rise in fatal traffic crashes to ensure broader public safety in 2026. 📉 More here

Court Weighs Geofence Warrants

The Supreme Court has agreed to rule on the constitutionality of “geofence warrants,” a digital investigative tool used by law enforcement to identify every cellphone user near a crime scene. According to the Associated Press, the case stems from a 2019 Virginia bank robbery where police used Google location data to identify and convict a suspect. While defense attorneys argue these broad warrants violate Fourth Amendment privacy rights by sweeping up data on innocent bystanders, prosecutors contend that users voluntarily opt into location tracking. With federal appeals courts currently split on whether this practice constitutes an unreasonable search, the upcoming Supreme Court decision will establish a critical national standard for balancing modern digital surveillance with constitutional privacy protections. ⚖️ More here

Debunking Claim

The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) has released video footage to counter social media rumors alleging a trooper struck a protester in Memphis. The agency stated that the recording clearly shows the individual intentionally holding onto the front of a patrol car and lying down in front of it. According to the THP, the video captures the person then standing back up and leaving the area under his own power without being run over or injured. (Click on video)

Conference Registration Open

Registration is now open for the 10th Annual American Society of Evidence-Based Policing Conference in Washington, D.C. This important event brings together law enforcement professionals and researchers to share data-driven strategies for modern policing.

• May 20–22, 2026

• American University, Washington, D.C.

• Register here

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Officer Deaths Hit 80-Year Low

Law enforcement line-of-duty deaths nationwide fell to a near-historic low in 2025, reaching levels not seen since 1943. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 111 officers died in the line of duty last year, representing a 25% decrease from the 148 fatalities recorded in 2024. The report highlights significant declines across all major categories: firearms-related deaths dropped 15% to 44 incidents, traffic-related fatalities fell 23% to 34, and health-related or “other” causes saw a 37% decrease. NLEOMF officials attribute this downward trend to the adoption of better safety protocols and a heightened focus on officer wellness, marking a significant milestone in the effort to protect those serving in federal, state, and local agencies. 🚨 Full report here

Targeted Police Ambush

A Greenville, South Carolina, police officer is recovering after being shot multiple times in a targeted, “ambush-style” attack while sitting in his patrol vehicle early Sunday morning. The incident, which ended in a fatal shootout with the suspect, underscores a dangerous national trend: unprovoked attacks on law enforcement are remaining at historically high levels. According to recent data from the Fraternal Order of Police, ambush-style attacks have surged in the opening weeks of 2026, contributing to a broader “recruitment and retention crisis” as agencies struggle to protect officers from spontaneous violence. This latest assault follows a series of high-profile federal disruptions of extremist plots targeting law enforcement, signaling a high-stakes year for domestic security and police safety across the country. 🔗 More here

Tragedy Amid Federal Surge

The fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis has escalated tensions just days after the Trump administration deployed 2,000 federal agents to the area. According to CBS News, the video shows the shooting occurred as Good pulled her SUV forward while agents attempted to open her door, an incident DHS Secretary Kristi Noem characterized as “domestic terrorism” and an act of self-defense. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, while calling the outcome “predictable” and urging peace, confirmed his officers were not involved in the shooting but are now facing violence from protesters at the scene. The FBI has opened an investigation into the incident to determine the facts as local law enforcement struggles to maintain order amid the unrest. 🔗 More here

Local Federal Relationships Crack

A series of fatal shootings involving federal immigration agents has severely strained the traditional partnership between local, state, and federal law enforcement. While agencies typically coordinate on high-stakes investigations, officials in cities like Minneapolis and Portland report being excluded from recent shooting inquiries, leading to public clashes between local leaders and the Department of Homeland Security. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has defended the federal actions as necessary for public safety and criticized state oversight, while local authorities warn that this breakdown in communication and “toxic” federal branding hinders the ability to fight crime and maintain community trust. This growing fissure, according to The New York Times, represents a significant shift in American policing, moving into uncharted territory as states and the federal government battle over jurisdiction and enforcement tactics. 🔗 More here

New Briefing Room Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan to discuss his transition from a 30+ year career with the Philadelphia Police Department to leading one of the Midwest’s busiest police departments. Chief Sullivan shares his philosophy on data-driven policing, including a reimagined CompStat process, focused shooter reviews, and strong partnerships with federal and local agencies to reduce gun violence. The conversation also explores recruitment and retention strategies, the role of technology like real-time crime centers and drones as first responders, and the importance of telling policing’s story through initiatives like “Well Done Wednesday.”

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States to Limit Federal Immigration

Following the fatal shooting of Renée Good in Minneapolis, a growing number of Democratic-led states are advancing legislation to curb federal immigration enforcement within their borders. According to Politico, Lawmakers in states like California, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois are proposing measures that would prohibit federal agents from wearing masks during operations and restrict the sharing of data from schools and hospitals with federal authorities. While the White House maintains that these agents are performing necessary, high-risk duties to enforce federal law, state leaders argue that uncoordinated federal actions undermine local public safety and community trust. This mounting legislative push highlights a deepening constitutional tug-of-war over state sovereignty and the limits of federal enforcement power in local jurisdictions. 🔗 More here

AI Audits Shift Police Behavior

A first-of-its-kind study published in the journal Criminology reveals that artificial intelligence can measurably improve police professionalism. The randomized controlled trials, involving over 189,000 body-worn camera videos at the Aurora Police Department and Richland County Sheriff’s Department, found that AI-led auditing—which transcribes and scores officer language—led to a 57% reduction in “substandard” interactions in one agency and an 81.8% increase in “highly professional” conduct in the other. While some officers expressed concern that the technology creates a “fishing expedition” for minor policy breaches, researchers noted that providing direct feedback successfully encouraged officers to proactively meet higher standards. As 95% of body camera footage currently goes unreviewed due to resource constraints, the study suggests AI could transform passive recording into an active tool for accountability and training. 📖 Full article here

Tampa Deploys AI Policing

The Tampa Police Department has launched a suite of AI-powered tools designed to enhance officer response times and de-escalate high-pressure situations. According to Fox 13 News, the new technology includes “Prepared 911,” which allows dispatchers to receive live video feeds from callers’ smartphones, and “Axon Assistant,” a body-worn camera feature that provides real-time translation for over 50 languages. Additionally, officers now have access to “Policy Chat,” an AI tool that allows them to instantly look up department procedures via a voice-activated app. Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized that while these tools are intended to act as a “force multiplier” by providing real-time intelligence and removing language barriers, they are designed to support—not replace—human decision-making in the field. 💻 More here

Cincinnati Violence Hits Low

Cincinnati gun violence plummeted to a three-year low in 2025, marking the city’s least deadly year for shootings since the pandemic. According to Fox19, total shooting incidents dropped to 241, a significant decrease from the 313 recorded in 2023. While major neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine and the West End saw notable improvements, the data reveals a persistent challenge: juvenile shooting incidents remained nearly stagnant, and the total number of gun-related fatalities stayed flat year-over-year. These statistics suggest that while overall enforcement and community safety initiatives are successfully reducing the total volume of street violence, targeted intervention for youth remains a critical necessity for maintaining the city’s downward crime trajectory. 📉 More here

LA Homicides Record Low

Los Angeles recorded 230 homicides in 2025, marking the city’s fewest killings since 1966 and its lowest per capita murder rate since 1959. According to the Los Angeles Times, this 19% year-over-year decline mirrors a national trend of falling violent crime in major cities like Chicago and New York. While the drop is significant, the total count remains a subject of debate; under a new federal reporting system that includes “vehicular homicides” such as DUI-related deaths, the city’s total rises to 313. Law enforcement officials attribute the progress to targeted enforcement against repeat offenders and successful community safety partnerships, even as the LAPD continues to face staffing shortages and budget constraints. 📊 More here

New VSP Colonel

Virginia Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger has appointed Jeffrey Katz, a former Chesterfield County police chief with federal law enforcement experience, as the next superintendent of the Virginia State Police. According to WWBT, Katz led the Chesterfield force for six years before joining the FBI in 2024 to train senior law enforcement executives. Katz, a former president of the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police, will succeed Colonel Matthew Hanley as part of a senior leadership team Spanberger says is focused on addressing the Commonwealth’s challenges with practical solutions. The selection marks a high-profile move by the incoming administration to place a veteran local commander with national-level expertise at the helm of Virginia’s primary state law enforcement agency. 👮‍♂️ More here

Briefing Room Podcast

In this episode of The Briefing Room, I sit down with Redmond (WA) Police Chief Darrell Lowe for an in-depth conversation about leadership, accountability, and the future of public safety technology. Chief Lowe reflects on his journey from growing up in Los Angeles to joining the Santa Monica Police Department and later leading the Redmond, Washington, Police Department, discussing how early career “knucklehead” mistakes shaped his approach to leadership. He shares insights on race and policing, the importance of professional involvement beyond one’s own department, and Redmond’s pioneering Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) program.

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Delaware State Police Cpl. Matthew T. “Ty” Snook, 34, was killed in the line of duty after being ambushed while working an overtime assignment at a New Castle DMV. ABC News reports that the suspect, identified as 44-year-old Rahman Rose, shot the 10-year veteran from behind while Snook sat at a reception desk. Despite his injuries, Snook utilized his final moments to shove a DMV employee to safety and direct others to flee as the suspect continued to fire. The shooter subsequently allowed customers to leave the building and engaged arriving units in a firefight before being fatally shot through a window by a New Castle County officer. Snook, a husband and father to a one-year-old daughter, is the latest law enforcement fatality in a year that has seen multiple high-profile ambushes on officers during routine assignments. 💙🖤 More here

Homicides Reach Historic Lows

According to ABC News, the United States ended 2025 with an estimated 20% decrease in homicides, marking the largest one-year drop ever recorded in the nation’s history. Preliminary data from over 550 law enforcement agencies suggests that murder rates are returning to pre-pandemic levels, with cities such as Detroit, Philadelphia, and Baltimore on track for their lowest totals since the 1960s. Beyond homicides, major crime categories have seen significant across-the-board reductions, including a 23% decline in motor vehicle thefts and an 8% drop in aggravated assaults. While high-profile incidents like the Brown University shooting continue to drive public concern, law enforcement experts attribute the overall reset to strengthened federal partnerships, enhanced narcotics enforcement, and targeted operations against gang-related drivers of violent crime. 📉 More here

Fewest Murders Since 1965

Preliminary data released by the Chicago Police Department reveals that the city ended 2025 with 416 murders, the lowest number recorded in sixty years. According to ABC7 Chicago, gun violence saw a steep decline compared to 2024, with shooting incidents dropping nearly 35% from 2,274 to 1,471, and shooting victims decreasing from 2,797 to 1,847. Superintendent Larry Snelling attributed the gains to intelligence-driven policing, top-down leadership, and strengthened internal partnerships within the department. While analysts from the University of Chicago Crime Lab noted that similar downward trends are occurring in other major U.S. cities, local officials emphasized that strategic investments in specialized policing divisions were instrumental in achieving these results. 🔗 More here

Crime Drop in Baltimore

Fairfax Crime Reduction

Fairfax County realized substantial public safety improvements in 2025, led by a 15% reduction in homicides and a 100% case closure rate. Police Chief Kevin Davis told WTOP that the department’s multi-pronged strategy—focusing on recruitment, emerging technology, and high-visibility traffic enforcement—resulted in a 37% drop in non-deadly shootings and a 20% decline in robberies. Specialized units played a critical role in these metrics, with auto-crime detectives helping drive a 19% reduction in stolen vehicles and an urban team in Tysons contributing to a 22% decrease in retail theft. Furthermore, a 57% drop in motor vehicle fatalities accompanied a 7% increase in DWI arrests, as the agency prioritized changing driver behavior to deter broader criminal activity. With a 3% vacancy rate, its lowest in years, the department has successfully deployed neighborhood policing teams to sustain these gains across the county’s eight districts. 🔗 More here

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AI Democratizes Cybercrime

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally altering the cyber threat landscape by enabling low-skilled actors to execute sophisticated attacks at an industrial scale. Data from cybersecurity researchers indicates that 50% to 75% of all global spam and phishing is now AI-generated, with AI-assisted phishing campaigns achieving a 60% success rate—nearly four times higher than traditional methods. According to the The Wall Street Journal, the “democratization” of these crimes is driven by dark web marketplaces where malicious tools like WormGPT and FraudGPT are rented for as little as $90 a month, providing “hacker-in-a-box” capabilities to individuals with no coding experience. Furthermore, 2025 has seen the first documented cases of near-autonomous cyberattacks, where AI agents performed 80-90% of the tactical work—including vulnerability discovery and data exfiltration—in a fraction of the time required by human teams. 💻 More here

6000 Police Drone Programs

Law enforcement agencies are increasingly integrating drones into routine patrol and ordinance enforcement to optimize department resources, according to The Wall Street Journal. There are now at least 6,000 police drone programs active nationwide, a significant increase from just five years ago. In jurisdictions like Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, remotely piloted drones allow the department to patrol restricted areas without diverting two officers from higher-priority calls. Beyond monitoring, these tools are being utilized for active enforcement; in Elk Grove, California, police issued more than $300,000 in fines for illegal fireworks after capturing aerial video evidence during the July Fourth holiday. While civil liberties groups raise Fourth Amendment concerns regarding pervasive surveillance, departments emphasize transparency by making flight records public and maintaining camera focus on the horizon until a drone is within a quarter-mile of a specific service call. 🔗 More here

New Foreign Drones Banned

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a new rule banning the import and sale of all new drone models and critical equipment from foreign manufacturers, specifically targeting Chinese industry leaders DJI and Autel Robotics. According to CNN Business, these companies were added to the “Covered List” after an interagency security review concluded that foreign-made components could enable persistent surveillance and data exfiltration over U.S. territory. While the mandate prohibits the authorization of any next-generation models, it does not disrupt the continued use or purchase of previously authorized drones already in the domestic market. This regulatory action follows years of mounting federal scrutiny and aligns with a 2025 executive order aimed at accelerating the commercialization of domestic drone technologies to reduce reliance on foreign-controlled platforms. 🇨🇳 More here

ISIS-Inspired Attack Arrest

After about a year of planning, an 18-year-old was arrested on New Year’s Eve in a suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, accused by federal prosecutors and the FBI of intending to carry out a terror attack using knives and hammers that same day.

Strong Operational Performance

Prince William County (VA) has achieved significant public safety milestones under Chief Peter Newsham’s leadership, including an 11% decrease in overall crime and a 20% reduction in violent crime over the last five years. WTOP reports that the department maintained a 100% homicide closure rate for 2025, with only one case remaining open since Newsham assumed command. While community satisfaction sits at 96% according to recent accreditation surveys, the department faces ongoing pressure from a shrinking labor pool and aggressive recruitment by federal agencies offering high signing bonuses. Despite these headwinds, the agency has kept its vacancy rate below 12%, a critical metric as it manages the service needs of over 500,000 residents. 👮‍♂️ More here

Traffic Fatalities Reach Century Low

Iowa recorded 260 traffic deaths in 2025, the lowest annual total since the state began tracking crash fatalities in 1925. WQAD reports that this historic milestone marks a significant decrease from the 357 deaths recorded in 2024 and is a fraction of the state’s deadliest year in 1970, which saw 912 fatalities. Data from the Iowa Department of Transportation suggests the decline coincided with the implementation of a new hands-free driving law that took effect in July 2024. While law enforcement was limited to issuing warnings during the program’s initial six months, strict financial penalties began on January 1, 2026, including fines up to $1,000 for distracted driving violations resulting in death. 🚙 More here

Reversing Deadly Traffic Trend

Preliminary New Jersey State Police data shows a 15% reduction in traffic fatalities for 2025, totaling 575 deaths compared to the 30-year high of 684 recorded in 2024. According to NJ.com, this improvement exceeded both state safety goals and federal projections, even as nationwide mileage increased. Pedestrian fatalities saw a significant decrease, falling from 230 to 173, effectively reversing a 30% spike from the prior year. These gains coincided with the launch of the state’s “Target Zero” initiative, which recently produced a 72-page roadmap identifying 140 high-injury roadway sections for immediate attention. Law enforcement and transportation officials are now transitioning these recommendations to the incoming administration to sustain this downward trend through improved speed management and driver awareness. 🚗 More here

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