In the Line of Fire with Gary Dillon

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Chief Jim Williams was appointed to the position of Chief of Police on July 1, 2003. Chief Williams began his career with the Staunton Police Department as a police officer in September of 1984. During his career, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal, Sergeant, and Captain, serving as shift commander, investigations unit commander, team leader of the Critical Incident Response Team, and Division Commander of the Community Involvement/Support Operations division.

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Crossover edition - Gary is catching with Dana Schrad from the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police for a 2026 Virginia Legislative update. 

Recorded: 3/12/2026

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Gary is catching with Dana Schrad from the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police for a 2026 Virginia Legislative update. 

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In this episode, I'm speaking with Gina Rollo White about an incredibly important topic: mindfulness, and how it can be applied in meaningful, practical ways for first responders.

Those who serve in law enforcement, fire, EMS, corrections, and other public safety roles face constant high-stress situations, fast decision-making, and the emotional weight that comes with the job. Mindfulness is often thought of as something quiet or abstract, but in reality, it can be a powerful tool for building resilience, improving focus, and supporting overall wellness in the field.

Gina brings valuable experience and insight into how mindfulness can be integrated into the daily lives of those on the front lines.

Gina's website: www.mindfuljunkie.com

Gina's podcast: Just Fucking Breathe

Gina's book: Tactical Brain Training

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Chief A.J. Panebianco has over 30 years of law enforcement service in Virginia and is a published author. He retired from the Town of Middleburg Police Department in 2022 and has been providing consulting services to localities since then. 

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On a quiet October morning in 1988, just outside the town limits of Warrenton, Virginia, the body of 20-year-old Tammy Thorpe was discovered on a gravel lane off Route 17. She had been shot multiple times in the face with a small-caliber firearm. Her car was found that same day parked at the Warrenton Plaza Shopping Center—unlocked, keys still in the ignition, and her purse left inside.

It’s been nearly 37 years since Tammy was taken from her family, and while investigators have worked tirelessly on the case, her murder remains unsolved. This is still an active investigation, and we will continue to work diligently to solve this murder and to get justice for Tammy and her family.

https://coldcase.vsp.virginia.gov/fauquier-sheriffs-office/

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I'm happy to have John Clair back on the show as the new police chief for the Town of Blacksburg, Virginia. 

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Chief Scott Booth, Roanoke (VA) Police Department discusses his career in policing and the Roanoke Police Department. 

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In this episode, I speak with Chief Tom LaBelle about his lengthy fire-rescue career and the many challenges facing volunteer fire departments.