Command Talk with the Illinois Chiefs

Send us Fan Mail

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 enforcement professionals and civilian contributors as they share how these partnerships are helping agencies build trust, improve efficiency, and foster stronger community connections. Whether it's traffic control, administrative support, or neighborhood outreach, civilians are playing an increasingly vital role in modern policing.

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

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 the delicate balance between safety and support, the importance of relationship-building in schools, and the challenges SROs face in today’s climate. Whether you're a parent, policymaker, or educator, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how SROs are shaping, and being shaped by, the schools they serve.

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

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 do now to stand out. Whether you’re preparing to apply or just curious about the path to the badge, this episode is your essential guide to joining the force. 

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

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 in March 2024

Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/hvOuofSUepA

Watch episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

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 stories of officers who are making it work at work, and some who couldn’t.

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

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 unwavering support. Hear from officers and Special Olympics representatives as they share their stories about the mutual impact these partnerships create. It’s a look at policing beyond the badge where dedication meets compassion, and where every mile run and dollar raised changes lives. 

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

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 pressure. We hear firsthand from Illinois law enforcement professionals who have navigated this transition, sharing lessons learned, the mindset shift required, and how they balance leadership responsibilities with the values that brought them into the profession. Whether you're on the path to promotion or simply curious about what it takes to lead behind the badge, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the most pivotal stages of a policing career. 

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we explore the innovative Unity Partnership, whose mission is to have a positive impact on the relationship between police and civilians. They aim to accomplish this by creating opportunities for interactions that foster mutual understanding, erase negative stereotypes, and develop new pathways for dialogue in the community.

We discuss how this partnership is working to build trust, improve public safety, and bridge the gap between police officers and local residents. Join us as we discuss the challenges, successes, and future of this important partnership and law enforcement. Whether you're a community member, a law enforcement professional, or just interested in the evolving relationship between police and citizens, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of partnership in creating safer, stronger communities. 

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, hosts David Hochberg, Chief Kirk Brueggeman, Chief Ana Lalley, and Chief David Byrd chat with Field Training Officers (FTOs) and their chiefs about their crucial role in law enforcement. FTOs are the bridge between academy training and real-world policing, guiding recruits through the complexities of the job. We explore the challenges and rewards of being an FTO, the skills required to mentor and shape the next generation of officers, and their impact on rookie officers and the communities they serve. 

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we take you inside 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. 

Watch all episodes of Behind the Badge Illinois and more at https://www.youtube.com/@ilacp