Patrol Issues
The Patrol Issues topic page offers news, commentary, analysis, and tactical tips that will help prepare police officers for life on the thin blue line.
Officers can’t solve homelessness alone, but smart partnerships and specialized training show a better way forward
Retired Chicago police officer Leatrice Woody’s memoir is a blueprint for law enforcement career success and the importance of love for the job, people and community
When poor practices are modeled, the consequences can be long-lasting; here’s how leadership can step in early to set new officers up for success
Learn what police officers can and can’t do in five common situations, from traffic stops to public filming, and understand the laws that protect your rights
The best cops develop their cop instincts and then learn to trust them. If something feels wrong, it usually is wrong.
Having a principle-based plan to escape provides a tactical advantage — and builds confidence under pressure
Cellebrite’s 2025 annual industry trends survey reveals how law enforcement agencies are embracing new technologies to tackle growing digital evidence backlogs and investigative challenges
More can be done to fill today’s vacancies than just recruitment
A good place to mark the beginning of the modern patrol rifle concept – in which a rifle is a normal part of the everyday kit – is the Norco bank robbery
The fallout is lowered morale, legal risks and erosion of public trust
Following a Ninth Circuit decision on use of force, one sheriff’s new policy has sparked debate over legal interpretation, responder safety and the future of crisis response models
8 police officer book recommendations to help develop winning techniques on and off the job
Real toughness lies not in the acting, but in the actions of those who are sworn to serve and protect
Tired of aching feet? A veteran officer shares expert-backed solutions to keep you moving, stay pain-free and perform at your best
After 31 years with the Chicago Police Department, Dave Case brings his experiences to life through compelling crime novels — while continuing to serve in law enforcement
Apply these principles to de-escalate confrontations, reduce complaints and increase cooperation
A driver’s attitude and history can influence the decision to issue a traffic ticket as much as traffic conditions and the infraction itself
Never underestimate the value of officer presence on ensuring your time in court is successful
From crisis calls to tactical decision-making, discover how to apply de-escalation effectively while balancing officer safety, public trust and evolving policies
In U.S. v. Turner, the court examines how the search incident to arrest doctrine and automobile exception justify vehicle searches
Take a look at a comprehensive list of the APCO police 10 codes and their meanings
The founder of Verbal Judo explains the five universal truths of human interaction
Not getting adequate, quality rest can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health
No scripts. No second takes. Just real cops doing the job. Show analyst Captain Tom Rizzo on the success of this reality TV show
Since 2022, the reality TV docuseries has provided an unfiltered look at law enforcement in action, offering transparency, boosting community trust and even helping agencies attract recruits
How safe would you feel knowing your backup officer hasn’t had a restful night’s sleep in weeks and is struggling to stay awake?
Meet three black belt officers using martial arts to transform police training — locally, virtually and internationally
It can have a range of negative effects on both physical and mental health
With the right tactics, training and awareness, officers can improve their chances of detecting danger before it strikes
The 8th Circuit ruled in U.S. v. Hamber that an officer lawfully extended a stop to frisk a sleeping driver in a high-crime area
Here’s what to say instead for clearer, more effective reports
Don’t let simple mistakes tarnish your credibility
Officers face split-second decisions, but politics and misinformation are shaping the rules they must follow — often with dangerous consequences
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- Stop ‘othering’ to connect with your community
- ‘Lead where you are now': How a PD built a leadership-driven culture — and solved recruitment and retention
- Ticket for horn honking on Supreme Court docket reveals the far reach of police discretion