When two Madison Police officers showed up in her hospital room, a woman who had just overdosed on heroin, thought she was likely going to jail. Instead, the officers offered her an opportunity that helped change her life. 

Now Shawn Sveum hopes to help to others who are struggling by appearing on this podcast and candidly talking about her difficult path to a healthy and happy life.

It all started when those officers in the hospital told her about MPD’s Madison Addiction Recovery Initiative, or MARI. Joining Sveum on the podcast is MARI coordinator, Officer Bernie Albright, who provides exciting news about the program’s future.

A MARI Success Story

The Madison Police Department is recognized nationally and internationally as one of the leaders in community-based policing where officers are all recognized as leaders and encouraged to be problem-solving guardians. In these podcasts the chief talks about policing the Madison way while addressing topical issues.

Government

Community Engagement Specialist Alex Rickets discusses the importance of engaging youth in our community and highlights the MPD's involvement in the Late Night Basketball program through the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County.

Ball with us: MPD participates in Late Night Basketball Program

Chief Barnes sits down with former MPD Leaders, Chief David Cooper (1972-1993) and Chief Noble Wray (2004-2014), to discuss their experiences leading the Madison Police Department in years past. They reminisce on how MPD has changed to reflect the Madison community and their ever-evolving response to new community needs.

MPD Throws back to hear from former Chiefs

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. In this episode, learn how our officers help those living with mental health concerns. We talk about everything from our training to the CARES program to ways your family can safely communicate during a stressful situation.

Compassion and Coordination: MPD’s approach to helping those with mental illness

In our inaugural Episode, entitled "Where I'm From" Henry Sanders, from Madison 365 will assume hosting duties. This episode explores a few moments in the life and career of Chief Barnes which greatly influenced his professional leadership style and philosophy around policing, as well as, MPD's vision for public safety here in Madison.

A MARI Success Story

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