This year in review looks back at the turning points that reinforced the strength, resilience and evolving demands of policing in 2025 — and how Police1 worked to report and explain their impact. Our columnists confronted the biggest stories head-on, offering sharp analysis when the profession faced fast-moving developments.
Across the year, we released downloadable resources built to meet the moment, whether officers were grappling with new investigative pressures, leadership challenges or staffing realities. Our webinars became gathering points when the field needed real-time insight, bringing frontline experts, researchers and innovators into focused conversations about what was changing and why it mattered.
We also opened new storytelling spaces in 2025. “Stories From the Streets” cut through the noise with firsthand accounts from the Police1 community that reminded readers what the job looks like at ground level — the decisions, the uncertainty, the human impact behind every call.
We reviewed dozens of submissions and selected the 10 that stood out. Explore this year’s finalists and vote for your favorite by December 28!
TOP INCIDENT ANALYSIS OF 2025
The fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk underscores why overlapping security layers and coordinated planning are essential in today’s threat environment
After the January 6 Capitol riot, DC Officer Jeffrey Smith died by suicide — his widow’s fight changed the law and redefined duty-related trauma
NEW IN 2025: STORIES FROM THE STREETS
What really happens when the radio goes quiet and the job moves on without you
From admitting “I don’t know” to listening when an officer challenged his decision, a sergeant explains how humility — not rank — became the foundation of his leadership
I didn’t expect my biggest lesson to come after I turned in my badge
A veteran sergeant’s simple advice changed how one officer learned to think, decide and lead in the moments that matter most
Most police officers dodge the “worst call” question. Here’s what happened the day I didn’t — and why it stayed with me
A young deputy expected to prove herself through toughness, but a heartbreaking call showed her that empathy was the strength her community needed most
After nearly 30 years in uniform, a sergeant reflects on the pride, loss and courage it takes to walk away from the only life he’s ever known
A raw look at the weight officers carry, the silence that follows them home and the reasons many still feel called to serve
A veteran detective reflects on how ceremony turns an ending into a beginning — for the officer, the family and the profession
From policing communities to guiding anglers, one deputy’s second act proves there’s life beyond the badge
Young officers often mistake confrontation for control. The best gang cops know conversation, consistency and documentation are what truly build cases
When a young gang member told me he couldn’t wait to go to the feds, that moment changed everything I thought I knew about crime, punishment and connection
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY ANNUAL SURVEY
Download this in-depth analysis of Police1’s State of the Industry survey on the rise in assaults on officers and the operational gaps leaving them exposed
EDITORIAL WEBINARS
Discover how to build strong community backing for your RTCC with clear messaging, proactive engagement and a partnership-first approach
First-year police chiefs share the strategies, surprises and lessons that shaped their first 12 months in command — with takeaways that apply to any leader stepping into a new role
You can’t control the chaos — but you can train the brain that faces it. Learn how to build decision-making that holds under pressure
Generative AI is emerging in police work. Join chiefs exploring how to harness its potential while addressing the challenges of oversight and trust
How law enforcement is strengthening defenses against evolving aerial risks
Master the critical skills, tactical strategies and interagency coordination needed to respond effectively to active shooter incidents
Starting or expanding a DFR program? Get expert insights, real-world case studies and best practices to boost your agency’s efficiency in this must-watch webinar
Explore how SWAT teams are adapting core tactics, team roles and training methods to meet today’s operational, legal and technological demands
Learn how two agencies replaced aging radio systems, eliminated dead zones and built hybrid LMR-LTE networks that stay online when it matters most
Want to take control of your police career and break through the ranks? Higher education could be your key to success
Expert strategies for optimizing your Drone as First Responder program as it scales, from staffing and policy to technology integration and community engagement
From crisis calls to tactical decision-making, discover how to apply de-escalation effectively while balancing officer safety, public trust and evolving policies
Unlock your real time crime center’s full potential — optimize intelligence flow, streamline coordination and deliver real-time results that drive impact
You face enough challenges in your career — this webinar will help you simplify your finances and secure your future with confidence
With a focus on replicable success stories and real-world examples, this interactive webinar offers insider access to cutting-edge solutions shaping police recruitment
POLICE1 RESOURCES
Download this resource built by and for women in policing — with real stories, actionable strategies and tools to help you grow and lead with purpose
Learn how to plan, fund and sustain a real time crime center with practical steps, proven funding sources and strategies to build community trust
Learn how to secure the funding you need to launch and sustain a DFR program that enhances officer safety, speeds response and improves community outcomes
Police1’s exclusive companion report to the “What Cops Want in 2025" survey reveals how officers combine awareness skills and new tools to stay safe
Police1’s exclusive companion report to the “What Cops Want in 2025" survey reveals critical gaps in training — and what’s at stake when agencies fail to act
A six-step roadmap to make police training realistic, frequent and accountable
Use this step-by-step guide to close coverage gaps, secure hybrid LMR – LTE systems and future-proof your budget
From managing unpredictable income to planning for early retirement, this guide offers essential financial strategies tailored to police, fire, EMS and corrections professionals
Get expert insights and actionable strategies to tackle 25 key challenges in modern policing
2024 YEAR IN REVIEW
Ketter survived a harrowing standoff and returned to duty, proving resilience knows no limits
Jim Dudley and Tom Gandy unpack the struggles, triumphs and lessons of 2024 for law enforcement, offering bold strategies to empower frontline officers in 2025
Law enforcement officers risk their lives every shift — and these heroic police rescues showcase how officers went above and beyond to save lives this year
Policing is a serious profession, but it isn’t lacking in hilarious moments. Take a look at our top 10 favorites!
When gunshots filled the air, Sgt. Joelle Harrell ran in their direction before coming face-to-face with a bloodied Ricky Pearsall, a wide receiver with the San Francisco 49ers
COMPLETE COVERAGE
From a very early age, Boston Police Officer Dennis “D.J.” Simmonds wanted to be a hero
Officers faced historic challenges during the pandemic, with many falling ill in the line of duty; NLEOMF has formally recognized COVID-19 as a line-of-duty death
Cops want to be part of the solution to the problems and challenges they face – maybe leaders and politicians should be willing to listen to the people doing the real work
“Your vote will not only honor the hard work of our officers but also inspire future generations to join our ranks and continue our mission!” Chula Vista Police Chief Roxana Kennedy posted
Check out the police recruitment videos inspiring the next generation of officers — plus, find out which video readers voted as their favorite!
The Police1 editorial team values the opportunity to collaborate with columnists and engage with readers
No one can claim policework is boring for the men and women working patrol
The number of attacks is alarming, but we are seeing more stories about successes from police intervention before and during attacks
Signs of backlash against increased crime associated with oppressive and punitive police reform measures are coming to light
See how law enforcement stepped up through acts of heroism to create some good this past year