Rural Law Enforcement
In the Rural Law Enforcement section you’ll find news reports and expert articles about what it means to be a police officer in rural America.
The public safety model promises savings and speed — but it’s not a fit for every agency
Discover how Fletcher PD is redefining small-agency policing through a bold rebrand that restored community trust and reshaped officer identity
After four days stationed deep in the canyon, Ranger Malerie Mento hikes out — balancing law enforcement and emergency medicine along one of the park’s most challenging patrol beats
Out of a series of conversations between the feds and rural cops comes a report detailing the dire issues facing those who police small-town America
Instead of using sick time or being placed on paid leave, officers would receive their full, regular pay
While policing in rural areas may lessen the risk of COVID-19 cases, agencies worry a single case of the virus would put whole departments out of commission
Residents can email the sheriff’s department and ask a deputy to check on vulnerable individuals who may not be entirely able to care for themselves
Rookie warden Austin Schumacher used old-school tracking skills to find and rescue a 13-year-old boy before a snowstorm struck
As all first responders gear up to respond to the impact of a global pandemic, rural and small agencies face significant challenges unique to their communities
Conservation officers can be an invaluable resource for police investigations
The initiative is a joint effort between federal and local law enforcement designed to increase public safety in indigenous communities
Rural cops routinely encounter violence related to anti-government sentiment
In this podcast segment, Jim and Doug discuss the shuttering of doors at police agencies, usually in smaller jurisdictions
‘Alaska PD’ highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in four Alaskan cities
After reading a news story about the challenges of rural policing in Alaska, Officer Peme Canas began collecting equipment and donations for one small town
You’re not competing with Piggly Wiggly or Burger King for applicants – you’re competing with every LE agency within reasonable commuting distance
The security cameras, monitored by civilians, are meant to complement the town’s diminished police presence
With some creative thinking, strategic writing and matching your needs to the grant agency’s purpose, you could be awarded funding to upgrade your department’s fleet
With clear planning and due diligence, rural departments can successfully launch a body-worn camera program
Smaller law enforcement agencies often face an uphill battle due to limited resources
Here are some unique grant funding sources to consider for your law enforcement equipment, training and other resource needs
The 11 children were found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico
Chester Hornowski, 71, was found dead of multiple gunshot wounds in a residence in Mountain Home, Ark.
Whether it is on a national wildlife refuge or a warehouse at an international airport, “man’s best friend” is making a difference for the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service
The gunman was out on bail, and others had complained about him firing hundreds of rounds from his house
Two hospitals said they were treating a total of seven gunshot victims, including at least three children
The declaration will allow the government to redirect resources, including toward expanded access to medical services in rural areas. But it won’t bring in new dollars
Officer Kristen Hearne was fatally shot Friday when she and Officer David Goodrich investigated a car found beside a rural road