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.
The hardest part of the job often begins when the scene clears and the silence sets in
Police1 invites readers to share the moments that changed them — lessons learned the hard way, passed on to the next shift
To combat “operational fatigue” in law enforcement, culturally competent support and proactive wellness programs are essential
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
Week-by-week tallies show the officer also put in for OT on days he called out “sick in family” and “sick with pay”
Remember to follow three simple principles: preparation, organization and clarity
How agencies can move beyond tech hype, integrate smarter systems and give officers real-time intel when they need it most
A survey of 200 officers reveals critical gaps in interview and interrogation training, exposing struggles with question formulation, rapport-building and overcoming resistance
Common errors that will get your report rejected by your supervisor or the courts
In many cases, victims of domestic violence stay because they sense the ever-present specter of their death
By empowering officers at every level, Hermosa Beach PD turned its staffing crisis into a leadership success story — proving that recruitment and retention aren’t about incentives, but about culture
Here are some pointers to help every new cop on their way to a successful law enforcement career
Follow this comprehensive guide to being an effective courtroom witness
First on the list: “You need to find some real criminals!”
In Stapleton v. Lozano, the 5th Circuit ruled officers were not deliberately indifferent after a drug user died in custody
Experience builds instincts, education sharpens strategy — both shape great cops. How can agencies balance real-world grit with academic insight to recruit and train the best officers?
Hesitation, communication struggles and fear of looking inexperienced — here’s how to tackle these challenges head-on and build real confidence in the field
Tough shifts demand tough feet — fix the pain now or it’ll take you out later
Police departments are expanding their leadership teams beyond sworn officers; here’s what it means for the future of public safety
Drones can deliver lifesaving devices in as little as 70 seconds; in critical situations like overdoses, cardiac arrests or drownings, those seconds can mean the difference between life and death
Do the excuses you’ve heard on patrol top the head-scratching claims we’ve heard
Many times officers deny the stress they are experiencing for fear of being viewed as weak or not being able to handle their job
Consider the following quotes and how they may help guide you in your police career and in life
Policies help foster accountability in public safety and in our personal lives; effective policies foster success in all areas of life
I preferred the night shift because there was great camaraderie among the ranks – but I paid the price for being a night owl
Dive into these captivating stories and real-life experiences shared by law enforcement officers
From odor-fighting sprays to heavy-duty hangers, discover the tools that make maintaining your gear easier and more effective
