In this compelling episode of Criminology Chats, JR, Miranda and Grace chat Sergeant Michele Wood. She has spent 25 years with the Chicago Police Department. One of a select few women to serve as a homicide detective on the city’s violent West Side. Her record is unmatched: thousands of cases, hundreds of arrests, and over seventy-five department awards.

Certified as an FBI crisis/hostage negotiator, Wood has led investigations into homicides, police- involved shootings, sex crimes, and domestic violence—bringing justice to victims and families.

Her drive comes from a personal vow she made after surviving a violent attack at age 11, an experience that fuels both her toughness and her compassion.

Wood is a familiar face in true crime television, appearing in Dick Wolf’s Dead Again, Oxygen, Investigation Discovery, ABC’s 20/20, and On Patrol Live. She’s currently developing an investigative documentary series based on her caseloads and a True Crime advocate- community engagement platform.

Beyond the badge, she got her master’s in public safety management - all while raising her daughter.