Policing Matters

Policing is one of the most demanding professions and advancing through the ranks comes with unique challenges, particularly for women in law enforcement. Retired Assistant Sheriff Sasha Larkin brings decades of experience to this conversation. From managing sleepless nights to building community trust during critical moments, Larkin exemplifies what it takes to thrive in a high-pressure environment. Now, as the Director of Intelligence for FIFA’s World Cup events, she shares her journey and offers actionable advice on leadership, career advancement and retirement planning for police officers. After retiring in May 2024 following a 25-year career with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Larkin reflects on her role as Assistant Sheriff, where she spearheaded efforts in community engagement, counterterrorism and leadership development. In her discussion with Policing Matters podcast host Jim Dudley, Larkin explores the complexities of law enforcement leadership, the significance of resilience and the importance of early retirement planning. She provides practical tips for officers transitioning to new careers, including how to craft targeted resumes, build professional networks and find a meaningful second chapter. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

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

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

This year has been a transformative year for law enforcement, marked by unprecedented challenges and critical turning points. From navigating thinning ranks to addressing societal and institutional pressures, officers have faced extraordinary demands. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley welcomes Tom Gandy, host of the War Stories podcast, to reflect on the defining moments of the year. Together, they explore evolving public perceptions of policing, the morale crisis among officers, and the pressing need to strengthen support for those on the front lines. Tom Gandy brings a wealth of frontline experience to the conversation. As a former patrol officer, field training officer, narcotics detective, and use-of-force expert, Gandy has firsthand insights into the realities of law enforcement. Through his War Stories podcast, he has created a platform for officers, veterans and first responders to share their untold experiences. In this episode, Gandy candidly discusses the morale challenges plaguing officers, the impact of poor leadership, and how technology both aids and complicates modern policing. His observations highlight the resilience of law enforcement professionals and their commitment to serving their communities despite the obstacles. About our sponsor eSOPH is a secure, cloud-based, pre-employment background investigation software system designed specifically for public safety agencies. Used by hundreds of agencies nationwide, eSOPH has been credited with cutting the time it takes to process a pre-employment background investigation by up to 50%, saving agencies significant time, money, and resources without sacrificing investigation quality. For more information, go to eSOPH.com.