Best Citizens Behind The Badge Podcasts (2025)

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Inside the Threat of Scams and Bank Robberies 1:02:49

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24h ago1:02:49

1:02:49

Send us a text In this powerful episode, we sit down with police chiefs, seasoned fraud experts, and a former bank employee who survived an armed robbery to unpack what safety really looks like in today’s financial world. From modern scams targeting everyday people to the tactics criminals use inside banks, our guests break down the red flags, the …

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JFK Assassination: Dallas Aftermath, FBI Tensions, and Jack Ruby’s Final Chapter 17:04

2d ago17:04

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Sixty years after the JFK assassination, the questions and consequences still echo through Dallas. In our final episode, historian Rick Janich shares the seldom-discussed aftermath: the federal tensions between the FBI and Dallas Police, the city’s scarred reputation, and the creation of what would become the Dallas Police Museum. We also examine t…

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JFK Assassination: The Human Stories - Marie Tippit, Clint-Hill, and-the Witnesses of Dallas 16:26

3d ago16:26

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Beyond the headlines of November 1963 were the families, officers, and everyday citizens whose lives changed forever in the aftermath of President Kennedy’s assassination. In Part Two, we explore the emotional heart of the story: Marie Tippit, widow of Officer J.D. Tippit Jackie Kennedy’s private grief and her letter to Dallas Clint Hill’s reflecti…

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JFK Assassination: How Lee Harvey Oswald Was Captured - The Dallas Police Timeline 20:16

4d ago20:16

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On November 22, 1963, shots rang out in Dealey Plaza — and the world changed in seconds. But behind the iconic images of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination was a frantic, chaotic, and deeply human response unfolding inside the Dallas Police Department. In this first episode of our three-part series, Dallas Police historian Rick Janich walks …

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What We Do: Real Defense. Real Results. 20:44

12d ago20:44

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Episode Summary: In this episode of Defending the Windy City, criminal defense attorney David Drwencke, founding partner of DRD Law, concludes his three-part series inspired by Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle. Having explored his “why” and “how” in earlier episodes, David now turns to the “what”—the real work DRD Law performs every day in courtrooms ac…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Becoming a Chief 49:47

16d ago49:47

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Send us a text In this season 2 episode, David Hochberg sits down with three experienced police chiefs to delve into their personal journeys, what they have learned along the way, and what they would have done differently, and the advice they have for aspiring police chiefs. Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.yo…

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Beyond the Badge Finding Purpose and Joy After Policing 32:08

16d ago32:08

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What happens when the badge comes off? When the mission changes, but the heart that served still needs a place to go? In this second part of a powerful two-part conversation, Heroes Behind the Badge host Dennis Collins continues his discussion with David Berez, Dave Howe, Bill Erfurth, and Craig Floyd—exploring what comes after awareness: rebuildin…

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The Weight We Carry Breaking the Silence on Police Suicide 35:51

18d ago35:51

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Every year, more law enforcement officers die by suicide than from all line-of-duty causes combined. In this powerful first part of a two-part conversation, Heroes Behind the Badge host Dennis Collins sits down with David Berez, Dave Howe, Bill Erfurth, and Craig Floyd to confront the silent epidemic of stress, trauma, and loss inside police cultur…

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How DRD Law Delivers Results: Inside David Drwencke’s Criminal Defense Approach 23:17

1M ago23:17

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Episode Summary: In this episode of Defending the Windy City, criminal defense attorney David Drwencke, founding partner of DRD Law, continues his three-part series inspired by Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle. After exploring his “why” in Episode 18, David now reveals the “how”—the practical strategies, tools, and values that drive his courtroom succes…

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Steve Sund on When Cops Are Told to Stand Down 1:01:41

1M ago1:01:41

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What happens when officers are ordered not to act, even as lives hang in the balance? In this gripping episode of Heroes Behind the Badge, former U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steve Sund returns to discuss the growing tension between politics and policing in America. From the real-life Chicago dispatch audio where police were told to stand down, to the…

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Chris Cosgriff | Officer Down Memorial Page Founder 45:47

2M ago45:47

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At just 19 years old, Chris Cosgriff founded the Officer Down Memorial Page (ODMP) from his college dorm room. What started as a student project has grown into the nation’s leading digital memorial for fallen law enforcement officers, honoring their sacrifice and ensuring they are never forgotten. In this episode of Heroes Behind the Badge, Chris s…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Journey from the Academy to the Streets 52:02

2M ago52:02

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By Illinois Chiefs

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This Is Why We Fight: The Purpose Behind DRD Law 20:50

2M ago20:50

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Episode Summary In this first installment of a three-part series inspired by Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle, attorney David Drwencke, founding partner of DRD Law, shares the deeper purpose that drives his criminal defense practice. From childhood aspirations to a calling shaped by family values and years of courtroom experience, David explains why def…

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America’s Crime Crisis: Politics & Fallout (Part 2) 27:55

2M ago27:55

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In Part 2 of this series, we move beyond the statistics to reveal the real-world consequences of America’s crime crisis. From Baltimore’s violent crime surge to the collapse of proactive policing, we uncover how political decisions, media narratives, and staffing shortages affect both law enforcement officers and communities. Discover what it means…

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The Truth Behind America’s Crime Stats (Part 1) 13:57

2M ago13:57

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Why do politicians and media outlets say crime is down while Americans feel less safe than ever? In Part 1 of this two-part series, we expose the hidden truth behind America’s crime statistics, the shocking 44% rise in violent crime, and why most people have never heard of the National Crime Victimization Survey. You’ll hear about police staffing s…

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Chief Joe Morris 9/11 Story (Part 2) | Leading the Recovery at Ground-Zero 33:09

2M ago33:09

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In this second and final part of his powerful 9/11 story, retired Port Authority Police Chief Joe Morris shares what it was like to lead the recovery effort at Ground Zero after surviving the collapse of the South Tower. Chief Morris recounts how he organized hundreds of officers in the midst of chaos, the heartbreaking loss of colleagues like Capt…

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Chief Joe Morris 9/11 Story (Part 1) | From LaGuardia to Ground Zero 28:53

2M ago28:53

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On September 11, 2001, the Port Authority Police Department suffered the greatest single-day loss of life in U.S. law enforcement history. Thirty-seven officers never came home. In this first part of a powerful two-part series, Chief Joe Morris shares his firsthand 9/11 story. Starting the day as commanding officer at LaGuardia Airport, Joe recount…

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When the Prosecutor Overreaches: Fighting Inflated Charges and Overcharging 15:56

2M ago15:56

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Episode Summary In this episode of Defending the Windy City, Chicago criminal defense attorney David Drwencke, founding partner of DRD Law, unpacks one of the most common tactics used by prosecutors: overcharging. David explains how prosecutors often stack charges beyond what the facts support in order to intimidate defendants into plea deals or cr…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Police Portrayal in Hollywood vs Reality 58:49

3M ago58:49

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Send us a text From high-speed chases to courtroom drama, police TV shows and movies have shaped how the public sees law enforcement. But how much of it is true to life? In this episode, we sit down with police chiefs to break down Hollywood’s version of policing. They share what the big and small screens often get wrong, the rare moments that get …

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Boston Bomber Found Hiding in Backyard Boat 23:13

3M ago23:13

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Episode Description: The shootout was over, but the nightmare had just begun. With one bomber dead and the other wounded but dangerous, former Watertown Police Chief Ed DeVeau faced one of the largest manhunts in American history. In this concluding episode, discover how an entire metropolitan area came to a standstill and how a simple boat in a ba…

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Boston Bombers vs 3 Cops: 7-Minute Firefight 44:37

3M ago44:37

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Episode Description: April 19, 2013. Three small-town police officers found themselves face-to-face with the Boston Marathon bombers in what became the most intense firefight in modern American law enforcement history. Former Watertown Police Chief Ed DeVeau reveals the untold story of the seven-to-nine-minute shootout that involved hundreds of rou…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Social Workers and Policing 1:04:24

3M ago1:04:24

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Send us a text Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacpBy Illinois Chiefs

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Beyond the Badge: Exposing Flaws in Police Investigations 23:34

3M ago23:34

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Episode Summary: In this episode of Defending the Windy City, criminal defense attorney David Drwencke, founding partner of DRD Law, discusses the hidden problems in police investigations. David explains what a thorough and unbiased investigation should look like, and contrasts it with the reality of investigative shortcuts, blinders, and confirmat…

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Police Officer Becomes FBI Leader: 36 Years Behind the Badge 56:34

3M ago56:34

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From beat cop to FBI leadership - Louis Quijas made history as the first police officer to become FBI Assistant Director without coming up through federal ranks. This unprecedented 36-year law enforcement career spanning Kansas City Police Department, High Point Police Chief, and FBI leadership reveals how one officer changed federal law enforcemen…

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Police Reversal: From Defund to Refund - America Backs Blue 55:31

4M ago55:31

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Citizens Behind the Badge founders Craig Floyd, Dennis Collins, and Bill Erfurth reveal how their 5-year mission transformed the national conversation from "defund" to "refund" law enforcement. After cities slashed hundreds of millions from police budgets following 2020, the devastating consequences became undeniable: homicides surged 30%, officers…

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Chief Chat: Tinley Park Chief Thomas Tilton 31:24

4M ago31:24

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Send us a text Deputy Director AJ Bailey sits down with Tinley Park Police Chief Thomas Tilton for a conversation about leadership, community policing, and the path that led him to where he is today. Get to know the person behind the badge - his motivations, challenges, and what it really means to serve and protect in today’s world. *Originally rec…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Citizens in Policing 45:22

4M ago45:22

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Send us a text In this episode, we explore the growing role of civilians in supporting law enforcement and enhancing public safety. From community volunteers and citizen patrol groups to non-sworn Community Service Officers, we take a closer look at how everyday people are stepping up to assist departments across the country. Hear from law enforcem…

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FBI Hero's One-Handed Miracle Shot - Part 2 24:52

4M ago24:52

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"When you're fighting for your life, anything and everything is an option." - Ed Mireles In the conclusion of the most harrowing survival story in law enforcement history, FBI Special Agent Ed Mireles accomplished the impossible - ending the Miami firefight with a one-handed shotgun technique that defied all odds and saved countless lives. This is …

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FBI Hero Shot Twice - How He Ended History's Deadliest Fight - Part 1 53:35

4M ago53:35

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"When you're fighting for your life, anything and everything is an option." - Ed Mireles, FBI Agent (Rtd.) On April 11, 1986, FBI Special Agent Ed Mireles faced the most violent confrontation in Bureau history during the Miami firefight that would forever change how law enforcement officers are armed and trained. This is Part 1 of Ed's incredible s…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: School Resource Officers' Evolution and Impact 55:19

4M ago55:19

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Send us a text In this episode, we explore the evolving role of School Resource Officers (SROs) and their growing impact on school communities. From their origins in public safety to their current place in educational environments, we explore how the responsibilities, expectations, and perceptions of SROs have changed over time. Our guests discuss …

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Police Department Abandoned Decorated Officer After Stroke - His Response Saved 15,000 34:35

5M ago34:35

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After surviving five gunfights that should have killed him, decorated Lieutenant Randy Sutton faced his most devastating battle - against his own police department. In Part 1, we heard Randy cheat death repeatedly during his legendary career. Part 2 reveals how a stroke on duty exposed the shocking truth about how police departments really treat th…

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Police Officer Survived 5 Shootouts in 34-Year Career: The Randy Sutton Story 26:44

5M ago26:44

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Lieutenant Randy Sutton survived five officer-involved shootings during his 34-year career - a statistical impossibility that would change the trajectory of American law enforcement forever. This decorated Las Vegas Metro Police veteran represents the 27% of officers who actually fire their weapon in the line of duty, but his story goes far beyond …

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How a Vietnam Veteran Built America's Most Sacred Police Memorial 33:32

5M ago33:32

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Jan Scruggs didn't just build the Vietnam Veterans Memorial – he saved the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and created a sacred space where we honor every police officer who made the ultimate sacrifice. When Craig Floyd was struggling to build a memorial for fallen law enforcement officers, he turned to the one man who had successfully b…

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The Truth About Marijuana Legalization in Illinois: Clearing Up Common Misconceptions 18:24

5M ago18:24

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Episode Summary: Attorney David R. Drwencke discusses common misconceptions about marijuana legalization in Illinois, covering possession restrictions, transportation requirements, DUI implications, and expungement opportunities. He provides practical advice for avoiding legal issues and insights into how law enforcement handles marijuana-related c…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: What It Takes To Become A Police Officer 54:37

5M ago54:37

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Send us a text Thinking about becoming a police officer? In this episode, we shine a light on the hiring process from written exams and physical tests to interviews and background checks. Hear directly from law enforcement leaders about what they’re really looking for in today’s recruits, the most common pitfalls applicants face, and what you can d…

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The story behind the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. 1:03:09

6M ago1:03:09

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In this special episode, we turn the tables on Heroes Behind the Badge founder Craig Floyd, making him the guest instead of the host. Join Dennis Collins and Bill Erfurth as they explore the remarkable 34-year journey of the man who built America's National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and Museum from the ground up. Featured Guest Craig Floyd …

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High Stakes Defense: Strategies for Serious Drug Charges 19:18

6M ago19:18

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Episode Summary: In this episode, experienced criminal defense attorney David R. Drwencke discusses the complexities of drug charges in Illinois, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. He explains defense strategies, recent changes in drug laws, and how the legal system approaches different types of drug cases. Key Timestamps: 00:09 - Introduction …

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Chief Chat: Addison Police Chief Roy Selvik 26:35

6M ago26:35

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Send us a text Deputy Director AJ Bailey sits down with Addison Police Chief Roy Selvik for a conversation about leadership, community policing, and the path that led him to where he is today. Get to know the person behind the badge — his motivations, challenges, and what it really means to serve and protect in today’s world. *Originally recorded i…

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Left for Dead: The Park Ranger Shot 9 Times Who Fired Back 48:23

6M ago48:23

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In this powerful episode of Heroes Behind the Badge, we tell the extraordinary survival story of Utah State Park Ranger Brody Young. While patrolling alone on a November night in 2010, Ranger Young approached a vehicle at a remote trailhead outside Moab, Utah. What began as a routine check ended with Young being ambushed and shot 9 times at point-b…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Love in Law Enforcement 45:51

6M ago45:51

45:51

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the complex world of love and law enforcement. Love Behind the Badge - What happens when officers fall for each other or try to balance a romantic relationship while working a demanding, high-stress job? From shared or switched shifts to the challenges of maintaining relationships, we explore real storie…

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"We Ride For Those Who Died" | The Police Unity Tour's Remarkable Journey 51:57

7M ago51:57

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The Police Unity Tour began with just 18 riders in 1997. Today, it's grown to over 2,000 officers biking 300 miles to honor fallen law enforcement heroes, raising more than $40 million for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. In this powerful episode, founder and retired Police Chief Pat Montuore shares the inspiring story behind th…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: Powerful Bond Between Police and Special Olympics Illinois 44:17

7M ago44:17

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Send us a text In this heartwarming episode of Behind the Badge Illinois, we spotlight the deep and inspiring connection between law enforcement and Special Olympics Illinois. From local fundraisers to the iconic Law Enforcement Torch Run, officers across the state are building meaningful relationships with athletes and communities through their un…

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Behind the Badge Illinois: The Transition from Officer to Leader 48:12

7M ago48:12

48:12

Send us a text In this episode of Behind the Badge Illinois, we dive into the challenges and growth that come with moving from officer to supervisor in law enforcement. Leaping to a leadership role, such as sergeant, means more than just a new title. It involves shifting perspectives, managing former peers, and making difficult decisions under pres…

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Checks and Balances at Risk: Police Filing Charges Without Prosecutor Approval 24:20

7M ago24:20

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Episode Summary: In this episode of Defending the Windy City, host Abigail Vaca and criminal defense attorney David R. Drwencke discuss Chicago's new program allowing police to directly file gun charges without prosecutor approval. They explore the implications for due process, community relations, and civil rights protection. Key Timestamps: 00:09…

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Beyond the Presidential Protection Detail - Tim McCarthy's Law Enforcement Journey - Part 2 22:17

7M ago22:17

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Law enforcement careers demand sacrifice that extends far beyond a single moment of heroism. In this compelling conclusion to our interview with Tim McCarthy, the Secret Service agent who took a bullet for President Reagan, we explore his remarkable 50-year career spanning federal protection and local policing. After recovering from his near-fatal …

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Secret Service Agent Tim McCarthy - The Man Who Took a Bullet for President Reagan 37:40

7M ago37:40

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When bullets rang out at the Washington Hilton on March 30, 1981, Secret Service Agent Tim McCarthy made the split-second decision that defines the ultimate sacrifice in law enforcement – turning his body into a shield for President Reagan during an assassination attempt. In this powerful Heroes Behind the Badge interview, McCarthy recounts his 50-…

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Some Superheroes Wear Badges 16:06

7M ago16:06

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Off-duty Deputy Michael Castaneda was at the right place and the right time to save children from a car that was stalled on the tracks and a train bearing down on them. All occupants had just cleared the vehicle when the train hit! Support the showBy Royce Bartlett

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Revolutionizing Criminal Defense: The DRD Law Approach 22:32

7M ago22:32

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Episode Summary: In this episode, attorney David Drwencke shares how technology, particularly AI tools, has revolutionized the legal profession, making it more efficient and effective. He discusses using AI for legal research, case preparation, and summarization, and how these tools can boost productivity and case outcomes. While embracing technolo…

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Legislator Proposes Law Enabling Assaults on Officers 19:11

8M ago19:11

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Just when you thought you'd heard everything silly under the sun, this story pops up. An Illinois Democrat lawmaker has introduced a bill that would effectively legalize violence against police if an attacker is having a mental health episode, potentially imperiling the safety of the state’s law enforcement officers. Support the show…

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The Healing Power of Police Week: A Family's Journey After Line-of-Duty Death 30:31

8M ago30:31

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The Harold Vitale Legacy (Part 2) In this moving conclusion to the Harold Vitale story, the Heroes Behind the Badge team explores how one family transformed unimaginable grief into an extraordinary legacy of service and remembrance that has spanned nearly four decades. Les Vitale shares the profound impact of the family's first visit to National Po…