In this final episode of the IACP Critical Dispatch series, host Jeff Pegues speaks with Joe Petito, father of Gabby Petito, and Lt. Mark Wynn (Ret.), a subject matter expert for IACP on the topic of gender-based violence and lethality assessment training for law enforcement officers.

They examine the warning signs of domestic violence and the necessity of officer training. Drawing from real-life tragedy, body camera footage, and newly mandated lethality assessment protocols initiated by several states, this podcast delivers expert advice for law enforcement, educators, and families seeking to prevent abuse and save lives. Discover how proactive partnerships, targeted questioning, and community education can transform outcomes for victims and officers alike.

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Journalist and host Jeff Pegues continues his wide-ranging conversation with Joe Petito, father of Gabby Petito. In this episode, Joe shares lessons learned through personal tragedy, reflects on advocacy for missing persons of all backgrounds, and discusses the ongoing work to combat domestic violence and support survivors. Learn about the realities behind the headlines and the practical steps anyone can take to make a difference.

IACP’s channel here or on host Jeff Pegues’ channel here.>

Learn more about the Gabby Petito Foundation here.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) or text START to 88788.

For more information, additional resources, or to share your thoughts, visit the IACP website or email us at [email protected].

Be sure to follow, rate, and subscribe to Critical Dispatch to ensure you never miss the important conversations and actionable solutions building safer communities.

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Nearly four years after Gabby Petito’s tragic murder, her story continues to spark national conversations about domestic violence, accountability, and hope. In this first episode in a powerful series regarding domestic violence, host Jeff Pegues sits down for an exclusive, in-depth interview with Gabby’s father, Joe Petito on Critical Dispatch from the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

here or on host Jeff Pegues’ channel here.>

Joe opens up about the unanswered questions surrounding Gabby’s case, the emotional toll on his family, and his candid thoughts on the Laundrie family’s actions. He shares personal memories of Gabby, reflects on missed warning signs, and discusses the ongoing mission of the Gabby Petito Foundation to help others escape abusive relationships.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The emotional aftermath and ongoing impact of Gabby’s case
• The importance of recognizing all forms of abuse—emotional, financial, and physical
• How Joe and his family are turning grief into action, empowering survivors, and raising awareness
• Personal stories and practical advice for families facing similar struggles

Tune in for a moving, honest conversation about loss, resilience, and the fight to end domestic violence—plus, learn how you can support the cause and honor Gabby’s legacy.

If you, or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence and/or emotional and mental abuse, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or go to TheHotline.org for help and support for you and your loved ones.

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In this gripping episode of Critical Dispatch, host Jeff Pegues sits down with Trooper Julian Mapes to recount a harrowing night on Interstate 20 in Georgia. What began as a routine field training shift quickly escalated into a high-speed pursuit, a foot chase, and a life-or-death encounter when Trooper Mapes was shot while apprehending a fleeing suspect. Hear firsthand how training, split-second decisions, and courage under fire shaped the outcome of a night that could have ended very differently.

here or on host Jeff Pegues’ channel here.>

Discover the realities behind the badge as Trooper Mapes shares the intense moments leading up to the shooting, the physical and mental toll of being wounded in the line of duty, and the unwavering commitment to public safety that drives law enforcement professionals every day. This episode is a testament to the bravery, resilience, and quick thinking required of those who serve and protect.

The IACP believes in celebrating the heroes behind the badge. To learn more about the IACP Awards and how these stories of heroism are honored, click here.

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Tune in to Critical Dispatch as we explore the vital role of community policing in building trust and solving crimes. Learn from the Boston Police Department about the importance of police presence and community relations in fostering safer neighborhoods. Discover their innovative approaches to community engagement and the significant impact of proactive policing. Don't miss this compelling discussion on the power of community relations in law enforcement.

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Discover the unique intersection of cardiology and law enforcement in this compelling episode of Critical Dispatch. Host Jeff Pegues interviews Jonathan Enriquez, MD a board-certified cardiologist and part-time police officer in the patrol division in Roeland Park, Kansas (within the Kansas City metro area), as they delve into the alarming health challenges faced by law enforcement professionals. Learn about the factors contributing to reduced lifespans, heightened cardiovascular risks, and mental health issues among officers. Dr. Enriquez shares actionable insights on improving wellness through diet, exercise, and systemic changes in healthcare partnerships. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a man dedicated to saving lives on the streets and in the hospital.

At IACP, we’re committed to helping agencies create lasting change. Explore officer wellness strategies and resources to support those who serve. For more information, visit our resource links or reach out to [email protected]. 

Doctor's Visit Checklist

Officer Health and Wellness Agency Assessment Tool and Action Planning Roadmap 

Fitness Considerations Guide 

Eating Well on the Go - Leadership Guide

Eating Well on the Go - Officers' Guide

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Chief Daniel Oates (Ret.) and Chief of Detectives Phil Pulaski (Ret.) talk with host Jeff Pegues revealing the 6 crucial steps law enforcement leaders must take during mass shooting investigations. Learn how to:

• Determine who leads the investigation
• Build an effective response team
• Manage multiple crime scenes
• Handle evidence properly
• Coordinate with hospitals and EMS
• Ensure operational security

Gain invaluable insights from these veterans of high-profile cases like the Aurora, Colorado, theater shooting, 9/11 aftermath, and the 2001 anthrax attacks. This podcast will help police leaders prepare for the unthinkable.

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A man unleashed a torrent of bullets in a mass violence incident killing three individuals in Farmington, New Mexico, in May 2023. The 18-year-old killer fired into homes and cars as he walked down the streets. 

In the latest episode of the Critical Dispatch podcast, Chief Steve Hebbe and Deputy Chief Kyle Dowdy of the Farmington, NM Police Department speak to host Jeff Pegues and pull back the curtain on one of the harshest realities of policing—those who are first to respond to a mass violence incident carry the weight of these tragedies long after they unfold. The response from the Farmington Police Department provides valuable lessons and identifies specific challenges for policing and the resources first responders need before, during, and after such a crisis.  

Through programs like Supporting Growth After Tragedy and the VALOR Officer Resilience training program, IACP is helping agencies foster cultures of support to equip officers with the necessary tools to process critical incidents and maintain their mental and physical well-being. And for agencies looking to strengthen their response strategies to mass violence incidents, IACP’s Mass Violence Advisory Initiative (MVAI) offers expert guidance and actionable solutions.

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In the aftermath of the brutal attack on Bourbon Street New Year’s Day that killed 14 people and injured dozens more, host Jeff Pegues speaks with Ronal Serpas, former Superintendent of Police in New Orleans.

Although believed to be acting alone, the assailant is said to have been inspired by ISIS. Serpas explains the flow of information from federal and state levels to local police departments saying, “Police departments in this country should be aware that there are people in other countries who ideologically hate us and want to hurt us.”

Regarding the alleged mass murderer’s lone wolf status, Serpas adds, “The federal government does have examples working with state and local or independently, when they do disrupt events that are going to be a terroristic ordered event. The point is in this one, maybe there just wasn't that information available.”

Serpas and Pegues discuss the chain of command in response to terrorist attacks and where the assets and resources exist to deter these types of attacks in the future.

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There have been 83 school shootings in 2024 with the latest being the shooting in Madison, Wisconsin where a 15-year-old girl killed a teacher and a student, and also injured six others. Since the pandemic when schools were largely shut down, there has been a stark increase in mass shootings nationwide, with over 500 mass shootings across the country, as of December 25 according to Gun Violence Archive.

Host Jeff Pegues speaks with Orange County Sheriff John Mina, who was the Orlando Police Chief when the Pulse shooting happened in 2016, where 49 people were murdered and more than 50 others injured. “[The Pulse Nightclub attack] did start as an active shooter type of situation, but then quickly morphed into a barricade, but also there was a terrorism nexus as well as the threat of explosives…The shooter was threatening to blow up half a city block and everyone inside or around the nightclub at Pulse,” says Sheriff Mina.

Then, you will hear from Max Schachter, whose son Alex was murdered in the Parkland School shooting in 2018. Schacter says, “I know what these families are going through and having your child predecease you in a mass shooting, there is nothing worse than that.”

Both Mina and Schacter share lessons learned from these terrible tragedies and offer their perspectives on the best practices needed to minimize and mitigate mass shootings.

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