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.
A retired patrol officer breaks down the gear he carried on duty — and explains how preparation, not equipment, still makes the difference on the street
Prosper Police Department’s CAD-integrated DFR program shows how early aerial perspective — paired with patrol drones and grant-supported partnerships — can help growing agencies adjust response in real time
From political violence and immigration enforcement to shifting criminal justice policy, 2025 forced local law enforcement to absorb the consequences of national decisions — regardless of ideology
Choosing the right driver specimen – blood or breath – may be a crucial decision in some cases
Attention to timing, instructions and demonstrations help reveal intoxication clues during pre-arrest screening
Maximize your effectiveness by laying on the charm and practicing patience in this stage
Watching for the little things, patience pays off when building a solid intoxication investigation case
By tracking metrics like use of force, sick leave and highly emotional envents, early intervention systems help agencies spot at-risk officers and provide proactive wellness support
If you feel you are policing in an untenable environment, avoid doing anything rash and irreversible without first considering all your options
A routine traffic stop. A disabled vehicle. A burning car. These everyday scenes can turn deadly in seconds — here’s how two experts say we need to rethink roadside response
Report writing is not a chore, it is the best tool for avoiding lost cases, lost lawsuits and lost careers
Spark discussion in the training room or shift briefing with a quote from “The Art of War”
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
In United States v. Giambro, the 1st Circuit ruled officers unlawfully entered a home without a warrant under the emergency aid doctrine
Unlike a physical injury, a mental traumatic injury like police PTSD can happen almost daily
Behind every stop is a story — and sometimes, a second chance. Here’s what it means to truly look beyond the stop
The road is one of the most dangerous places for officers; here’s what your agency can do about it
Two Timekettle devices went through real-world patrol and interview tests — one might earn a spot in your gear bag
Follow this expert guide to cleaning, conditioning and polishing your police boots, belts and gear the right way
The Glendale Police Department used real-time technology to track the suspect following a second vehicle assault on the department’s secured entrance
The 8th Circuit upheld officers’ use of force in Aden v. City of Bloomington, citing Graham factors and qualified immunity
A well-placed duty knife can be the difference between survival and tragedy
Across the country, police departments face historic staffing shortages while a highly trained, willing workforce stands ready — retired police officers
With nearly half of children with autism prone to wandering, CODE JOSHUA provides first responders with critical, personalized information — before they arrive on scene
The uniform doesn’t come with a manual for pet ownership — this might help
Reexamining the relevance of historical military thinkers in shaping modern police strategies
By giving officers real-time access to video, RTCCs are turning in-progress calls into solved cases and helping agencies close investigations faster and more safely
Nikki North, RTCC manager at the Flagler County (Fla.) Sheriff’s Office, shares how mutual respect and early involvement are key to successful communication
In Dimock v. City of Brooklyn Center, the court ruled warrantless entry and deadly force was lawful, citing exigent circumstances doctrine
In U.S. v. Turner, officers conducted a lawful warrantless protective sweep after exigent circumstances linked to a reported gunshot
Violence prevention is not only possible but also achievable through diligent collaboration, proactive intervention and a commitment to community safety
