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News of a Florida police officer who arrested a county sheriff’s deputy went viral on Police1, not for the infraction of driving 88 mph in a 55 mph zone, but for the Ormond Beach Police Chief’s statement. Chief Jesse Godfrey, in a written statement, said:
This episode of the Wellness Brief, featuring Emily Hitchings and Greg Friese, examines the incident and its aftermath. Their discussion highlights a powerful example of leadership and accountability. By standing firmly behind the decision, Chief Godfrey reinforces trust, morale and the expectation that no one is above the law.
Hitchings and Friese also explore why visible leadership support matters, how it impacts officer confidence and agency culture, and why doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult, strengthens departments and the profession as a whole.
NEXT | Why increasing officer morale should be a priority for every police leader
“Police officers in our What Cops Want Surveys want out of their leaders ... stand up for us, to believe in us. That we’re doing the right thing.”
About The Brief: Wellness Edition
The Brief: Wellness Edition video series explores the wellness implications of current events for public safety professionals. Each episode brings a timely conversation that connects unfolding events to the day-to-day realities of first responders.
