On this episode of Behind the Badge, host David Hochberg is joined by Dekalb Chief of Police David Byrd, O’Fallon Police Chief Kirk Brueggeman, and Elgin Chief Ana Lally. Listen in while they discuss what Field Training Officers (FTOs) are and why they are a crucial role in law enforcement.

On this episode of Behind the Badge, guest host O’Fallon Police Chief Kirk Brueggeman is joined by Dekalb Chief of Police David Byrd, and retired Illinois State Police Colonel Mimi McGreal. Listen in while they give listeners an inside look at the world of police dispatchers and telecommunicators—the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our communities safe. From answering frantic 911 calls to coordinating emergency responses, these professionals are the lifeline between the public and law enforcement. But what does a typical day look like for them? What challenges do they face, and how do they manage the emotional and mental toll of being the first point of contact in life-or-death situations?

Hear firsthand accounts from dispatchers, learn about the skills and training required for the job, how they keep calm under pressure, and the critical role they play in public safety.

On this episode of Behind the Badge, host David Hochberg is joined by Dekalb Chief of Police David Byrd, O’Fallon Police Chief Kirk Brueggeman, and Vernon Hills Police Chief Pat Kreis. Listen in while they discuss what SWAT is and why this group of highly trained police officers is so important.

On this episode of Behind the Badge, host David Hochberg is joined by O’Fallon Police Chief Kirk Brueggeman, Highland Park Chief of Police Lou Jogmen and Springfield Police Chief and Illinois Association Chiefs of Police Executive Director Kenny Winslow. Listen in while they discuss the importance of public safety to the ILACP.

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On this episode of Behind the Badge, Highland Park Chief of Police Lou Jogmen, in for David Hochberg, is joined by O’Fallon Police Chief Kirk Brueggeman, Dekalb Chief of Police David Byrd and retired Illinois State Police Colonel Mimi McGreal. Listen in while they take a closer look at a recent poll that reveals an intriguing trend: trust in the police as a profession is on the rise. But what does this mean for the everyday realities that officers face on the streets? Join the panel as they explore the complexities of public perception and the ongoing challenges law enforcement officers encounter in building trust within their communities.

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On this episode of Behind the Badge, Highland Park Chief of Police Lou Jogmen, in for David Hochberg, is joined by O’Fallon Police Chief Kirk Brueggeman, Dekalb Chief of Police David Byrd and DeKalb County State’s Attorney Rick Amato. Listen in while they explore the crucial role of a state’s attorney in the criminal justice system. Mr. Amato also shares his perspective, having worked on both sides of the aisle as a defense attorney and a prosecutor.

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On this episode of Behind the Badge, host David Hochberg is joined by Lake County Sheriff’s Deputy Chief Chris Covelli, Fairview Heights Police Chief Steve Johnson, Rockford Police PIO Michelle Marcomb, and Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police Deputy Director AJ Bailey. Listen in while they discuss the crucial role of Public Information Officers (PIOs) within police departments, especially during times of crisis. PIOs serve as the bridge between law enforcement and the community, ensuring transparency, managing communication, and providing vital updates during critical incidents. The panel explores their responsibilities, challenges, and the strategies they employ to maintain public trust and safety.

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On this episode of Behind the Badge, host David Hochberg is joined by Elgin Police Department Chief Ana Lalley, Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police Deputy Director AJ Bailey, Springfield Deputy Chief Sarah Pickford and Bartlett Police Detective Maha Ayesh. Listen in while they dive into the journeys of remarkable women who are making a difference in the field of law enforcement and inspiring the next generation of trailblazers. From overcoming challenges and breaking stereotypes to leading with courage and compassion, our episode features stories and conversations with women who serve in various law enforcement roles.

On this episode of Behind the Badge, host David Hochberg is joined by Elgin Police Department Chief Ana Lalley. Listen in while the hosts tackle one of the most pressing issues in modern policing: the intersection of artificial intelligence and law enforcement. As AI technology rapidly evolves, so too do the challenges and opportunities it presents for police departments.

Ever wondered why a routine traffic stop sometimes looks more like a major operation? On this episode of Behind the Badge, host David Hochberg is joined by Dekalb Chief of Police David Byrd and Elgin Police Department Chief Ana Lalley. Listen in while they explore why multiple squad cars are often seen at what seems like a simple traffic stop. From the dynamics of officer safety and procedural efficiency to the underlying factors of local law enforcement practices, we reveal the situations that could lead to these scenes and why it shouldn’t be a big concern.