When a shotgun blast tears through your face at point-blank range, survival seems unlikely. But for former Deputy Houston Gast, surviving was just the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

On a freezing January morning in 2015, Houston answered a domestic disturbance call that would forever alter his life. The blast from a 12-gauge shotgun shattered his face, knocked out his teeth, and filled his body with metal fragments that remain to this day. Through dozens of surgeries, a complete facial reconstruction, and learning to navigate life with permanent injuries, Houston discovered something unexpected – the power of forgiveness.

In this powerful episode, Houston shares the raw details of that fateful day and the grueling recovery that followed. He reveals the moment he made the remarkable decision to forgive the man who nearly killed him, sitting face-to-face with his shooter to say the words that liberated him from hatred. With unflinching honesty, he discusses the departmental abandonment many injured officers face and offers crucial guidance to police leaders on supporting their wounded.

Beyond the physical trauma, Houston opens up about the psychological battles – the nightmares, the suicidal thoughts, and the struggle to find purpose when your identity as an officer is threatened. His story isn't just about survival; it's about finding meaning in suffering and the freedom that comes from choosing forgiveness over vengeance.

The episode concludes with the team reviewing body camera footage, analyzing law enforcement tactics, and discussing de-escalation strategies that could save lives. Houston's unique perspective as someone who's faced death in the line of duty brings invaluable insight to these discussions.

Whether you wear a badge or simply want to understand the human capacity for resilience, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. Join us for an unforgettable journey through darkness into light with a true hero who insists he's "just a normal dude" who survived.

#police #lawenforcement #cops #policemonitor #policeoversight #policeoversightmonitor #bridgethegap #bethechange 

Join our Discord!! https://discord.gg/BdjeTEAc 

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com & https://www.thedonut.tv/
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”
Donate Here: https://buymeacoffee.com/twocopsonedonut 

🔔 *Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!*  
💬 *Join the conversation in the comments below!*

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct me

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

What started as an impromptu livestream with Erik enjoying some tequila while his family was away turned into a marathon five-hour exploration of policing, constitutional rights, and the complex gray areas of law enforcement. Joined by fellow former officer Banning Sweatland, the conversation takes viewers on a journey through real-world police encounters that demonstrate both the successes and failures of modern policing practices.

The hosts navigate the challenging territory of "fence-sitting" – receiving criticism from both police supporters and accountability advocates for their balanced approach to analyzing police conduct. With characteristic candor, they dissect several notable incidents, including an autistic homeowner detained on his own property, a teen auditor unlawfully arrested at a post office, and police responses to citizens legally carrying firearms while going about their business.

Through these case studies, Erik and Banning offer unique insights that only former officers can provide, explaining the practical realities of policing while holding firm to constitutional principles. They tackle sensitive topics like duty to intervene, proper detention procedures, and the critical importance of body cameras for accountability and transparency. Their analysis reveals how officers sometimes misinterpret laws regarding reasonable suspicion, probable cause, and citizens' rights to record in public spaces.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is the real-time community engagement, with viewers contributing questions, sharing videos, and participating in the analysis. The hosts respond thoughtfully to each contribution, creating an interactive learning environment where police practices are examined with nuance rather than simplistic judgments.

Whether you're concerned about police accountability, interested in constitutional rights, or simply want to understand the challenges of modern law enforcement, this marathon session offers rare insights from those who've stood on both sides of the thin blue line. Join us for an unfiltered conversation that proves meaningful dialogue about policing reform happens when we're willing to listen to perspectives from all sides.

#police #lawenforcement #cops #policemonitor #policeoversight #policeoversightmonitor #bridgethegap #bethechange 

Join our Discord!! https://discord.gg/BdjeTEAc 

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com & https://www.thedonut.tv/
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”
Donate Here: https://buymeacoffee.com/twocopsonedonut 

🔔 *Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!*  
💬 *Join the conversation in the comments below!*

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #Erik

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

From Hollywood producer to pioneering law enforcement reality star, Jerry Worms takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable career as the first officer ever featured on COPS. With disarming candor and decades of perspective, Jerry reveals how a documentary about the crack epidemic led to connections with the Broward Sheriff's Office, ultimately changing his life path and television history.

Jerry shares eye-opening stories about policing tactics that have vanished from modern departments, including his specialized use of nunchucks (officially called "flex batons") as compliance tools before tasers and pepper spray became standard equipment. "When you squeeze down on that radial nerve, that guy would just comply," Jerry explains, offering a fascinating glimpse into pre-digital era law enforcement approaches.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as Jerry reveals insider secrets, including how COPS producers obtained releases from arrestees by telling them they were signing release papers—leading many to believe they were being freed rather than agreeing to show their faces on television. This revelation alone demonstrates the dramatic evolution of media ethics and police-public interactions.

What makes this conversation truly special is Jerry's unique perspective spanning four decades of American policing. From witnessing the birth of specialized riot control units to observing the profound impact of cell phones and body cameras, Jerry offers valuable insights on how technology has transformed the profession. He candidly assesses today's policing challenges, expressing concern about officers' over-reliance on tools and decreasing willingness to go hands-on with suspects—a perspective that bridges generations of law enforcement approaches.

Whether you're a law enforcement professional, a fan of the original COPS series, or simply interested in how policing has evolved, Jerry's stories and observations offer an invaluable window into an era of American law enforcement that shaped today's practices and public perceptions.

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com & https://www.thedonut.tv/
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”

🔔 *Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!*  
💬 *Join the conversation in the comments below!*

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit https://insightlpr.com/ 

Retro Rifle: Official Clothing of Two Cops One Donut. Hawaiian Shirts, Guns, and Pop-Culture! head to Retro-Rifle.com tell them we sen

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

What happens when a legal doctrine meant to protect good police becomes a shield for official misconduct? In this explosive debate, we dive deep into qualified immunity with experts from both sides of the thin blue line.

Force Science expert Von Kliem squares off against civil rights advocate Mr. BillFold in a passionate examination of whether qualified immunity serves its intended purpose. The discussion reveals startling statistics: only one-third of civil rights cases against officers involve qualified immunity defenses, and 99.98% of officers who lose qualified immunity protection never pay a dime out of pocket due to municipal indemnification.

The conversation tackles the "clearly established" standard that requires nearly identical precedent cases for rights to be protected—creating a troubling scenario where even obvious constitutional violations can escape accountability. We examine cases like Baxter v. Bracey, where officers received immunity after releasing a police dog on a surrendered suspect simply because he was sitting rather than lying down when he surrendered.

Our panelists debate whether qualified immunity truly protects good officers making split-second decisions or primarily shields bad actors from accountability. The data suggests qualified immunity cases take 23% longer than typical federal civil rights cases, contradicting claims that the doctrine efficiently resolves frivolous lawsuits.

Perhaps most surprising is that police use of force cases represent only about 23% of qualified immunity cases, with many others involving government officials like mayors and administrators. Over half of First Amendment qualified immunity cases involve alleged premeditated violations—not the split-second decisions the doctrine was supposedly created to protect.

Join us for this eye-opening examination of a judicial doctrine that affects police accountability, civil rights, and the pursuit of justice in America. Whether you support or oppose qualified immunity, this conversation will challenge your understanding of how it actually functions in our legal system.

#police #lawenforcement #cops  #bridgethegap #bethechange 

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com & https://www.thedonut.tv/
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”

🔔 **Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!**  
💬 **Join the conversation in the comments below!**

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit https://insightlpr.com/ 

Retro Rifle: Official Clothing of Two Cops One Donut. Hawaiian Shirts, Guns, and Pop-Culture! head to Retro-Rifle.com tell them we sent ya! 

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

In a groundbreaking conversation that bridges the gap between constitutional activism and law enforcement, Sean Paul Reyes (Long Island Audit) joins active police officers to explore the complex dynamics of First Amendment auditing and police accountability.

Sean reveals his philosophy behind conducting "audits" – filming in public spaces to test officials' respect for constitutional rights – and shares how his approach of professionalism and de-escalation has earned him both millions of followers and unprecedented opportunities to train police departments across America.

The officers candidly discuss the ego problem plaguing law enforcement and acknowledge how Sean's work exposes critical training gaps. Most striking is Sean's revelation that despite being arrested 11 times during his audits, he's beaten every criminal charge – a powerful testament to the legality of his activities.

This conversation tackles qualified immunity, police training deficiencies, and the importance of humanizing both sides of these encounters. Sean emphasizes he's not anti-police but pro-accountability, while the officers acknowledge the need for higher standards within their profession.

What makes this episode unique is the mutual respect displayed despite differing perspectives. Rather than talking past each other, these individuals engage in the difficult dialogues necessary for meaningful reform. When Sean describes training sessions he's conducted with forward-thinking police departments, we glimpse a future where constitutional rights and effective policing aren't viewed as opposing forces.

Whether you're concerned about civil liberties, interested in law enforcement perspectives, or simply want to understand how these complex interactions shape our society, this conversation offers rare insights into how progress happens when both sides commit to honest dialogue and mutual understanding.

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com and https://www.thedonut.tv/ 

📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at Two Cops One Donut

🔔 *Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!*  
💬 *Join the conversation in the comments below!*

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit https://insightlpr.com/ 

Retro Rifle: Official Clothing of Two Cops One Donut. Hawaiian Shirts, Guns, and Pop-Culture! head to Retro-Rifle.com tell them we sent ya! 

send us a message! [email protected] 

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

When those sworn to uphold the Constitution can't recall its basic principles, who protects our rights? This gripping episode delves into four contrasting examples of law enforcement conduct that will leave you questioning the state of police accountability in America.

We begin with a jaw-dropping deposition of Sergeant Joffrey, whose repeated claims that he "doesn't recall" the First and Fourth Amendments while under oath sparked outrage among our hosts. The sergeant attempted to enforce a vagrancy law repealed five years earlier and wrongfully demanded identification from a citizen engaged in constitutionally protected activity. This case starkly demonstrates how constitutional ignorance can lead to rights violations and eroded public trust.

In refreshing contrast, we analyze Sheriff Gregory Tony's masterful press conference defending jail deputies accused of excessive force. Despite his controversial background, the sheriff's methodical approach—establishing his record of accountability before presenting video evidence—provides a blueprint for transparent leadership in law enforcement. The footage reveals deputies using reasonable force against a combative inmate who bit and injured an officer.

The episode also examines two body camera incidents: a Kentucky trooper who repeatedly tased a passenger during a minor traffic stop (who was later indicted for multiple excessive force cases), and Oklahoma officers arresting a combative suspect with outstanding warrants. These cases highlight the spectrum of police conduct from unjustified escalation to necessary force.

What makes our analysis unique is our panel's inside perspective—all current or former law enforcement officers who refuse to operate as an echo chamber. We praise good police work while condemning misconduct, creating a space where accountability and improvement, not blind defense, drive the conversation.

Join us in this unflinching examination of police conduct and help us build a community dedicated to constitutional policing. Your engagement helps keep these crucial conversations going—like, subscribe, and share your thoughts on these complex issues of justice and accountability.

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com and https://www.thedonut.tv/ 

📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”

🔔 **Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!**  
💬 **Join the conversation in the comments below!**

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit https://insightlpr.com/ 

Retro Rifle: Official Clothing of Two Cops One Donut. Hawaiian Shirts, Guns, and Pop-Culture! head to Retro-Rifle.com tell them we sent ya! 

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

We're joined by Nick from Nick Off Duty, whose YouTube channel documenting real police work has garnered over 200,000 subscribers. He shares insights from his 18 years in law enforcement and introduces his groundbreaking police recruiting app designed to revolutionize how departments find qualified candidates nationwide.Behind the badge lies a world far more complex than most civilians ever see. Through candid analysis of real police encounters, we journey into the split-second decisions and psychological burdens that officers carry every day. 

What happens when less-than-lethal tactics fail during a confrontation? We dissect bodycam footage showing the moment when an apartment call escalates to lethal force, examining both what happened and the emotional aftermath officers face. The reality is stark—no officer wants to take a life, yet when that tragic moment comes, they're subjected to intense scrutiny, investigations, and psychological trauma that can last a lifetime.

Rural policing emerges as a surprisingly challenging reality, with officers patrolling territories spanning hundreds of miles with backup potentially an hour away. This geographic isolation creates unique tactical considerations that urban departments rarely face. When you're the only officer for miles and a situation turns dangerous, how does that reality affect your decision-making?

The mental health crisis emerges repeatedly throughout our conversation—both the toll on officers themselves and the challenges of responding to mental health emergencies with limited resources. County jails have become de facto mental health institutions, a role they were never designed to fulfill.

Whether you're in law enforcement, considering a career in policing, or simply seeking to understand the human beings behind the badge, this episode offers rare, unfiltered insights into the profession's unseen realities. Subscribe now and join the conversation about what it truly means to protect and serve in today's complex world.

#police #lawenforcement #cops  #bridgethegap #bethechange 

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com 
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”

🔔 **Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!**  
💬 **Join the conversation in the comments below!**

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit https://insightlpr.com/ 

Retro Rifle: Official Clothing of Two Cops One Donut. Hawaiian Shirts, Guns, and Pop-Culture! head to Retro-Rifle.com tell them we sent ya! 
#police #lawenforcement #cops  #bridgethegap #bethechange  

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

Former Sheriff Mark Lamb "America's Sheriff" and Friday's with Frank, Frank Sloup joins us!

• Sheriff Lamb clarifies the critical difference between sheriffs and police chiefs – elected versus appointed – and why this matters for accountability
• We explore the complex reality of body cameras, weighing their benefits against resource allocation challenges
• Our panel discusses California's immigration enforcement crisis and the dangerous consequences of poor communication between federal and local agencies
• We analyze contentious body cam footage showing a handcuffed suspect being punched, providing perspective on justified versus unjustified force
• The team breaks down a Nashville suicide-by-cop incident, offering tactical analysis of officer decision-making
• Frank shares his experience working with media to demonstrate accountability to constituents
• We examine a controversial Phoenix traffic stop that escalated to deadly force, highlighting the importance of de-escalation timing
• The episode concludes with exciting news about our partnership with DTV (Donut Network) to create law enforcement educational content

#police #lawenforcement #cops  #bridgethegap #bethechange 

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com 
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”

🔔 **Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!**  
💬 **Join the conversation in the comments below!**

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit https://insightlpr.com/ 

Retro Rifle: Official Clothing of Two Cops One Donut. Hawaiian Shirts, Guns, and Pop-Culture! head to Retro-Rifle.com tell them we sent ya! 

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

When a routine patrol suddenly becomes a life-or-death situation, what really goes through an officer's mind? In this riveting episode, former officers Erik and Banning deliver raw, unfiltered analysis of real police encounters caught on bodycam.

The heart-stopping footage begins with an Indiana officer engaging a suspect who had shot his wife before fleeing with their baby. As bullets fly across a snowy bridge, the hosts break down the officer's remarkable tactical decisions that saved both his own life and the child's. Their expert commentary reveals the complex calculus of confronting armed suspects while accounting for innocent bystanders—a masterclass in crisis response under extreme pressure.

The conversation takes a surprising turn with the infamous "rat dog incident," where a trespassing stop escalates dramatically after a suspect throws a small dog at an officer before fleeing. This bizarre encounter sparks a thoughtful discussion on identification requirements, consensual police contacts, and the legal boundaries of detention. Viewers gain rare insight into how officers distinguish between merely suspicious behavior and actual criminal activity.

Perhaps most illuminating is the hosts' candid assessment of controversial incidents, including a deputy who pulled over a state trooper traveling at 105mph without emergency equipment. Their nuanced take on "policing other police" and pursuit policies demonstrates the ethical complexities within law enforcement that rarely make headlines.

Throughout the episode, Erik and Banning's chemistry shines as they weave professional expertise with humor, creating an educational experience that appeals to both police supporters and those skeptical of law enforcement tactics. Their transparent approach—acknowledging both exemplary police work and moments where different strategies might have yielded better outcomes—offers a refreshingly balanced perspective on modern policing challenges.

Ready to see police work through the eyes of those who've worn the badge? Subscribe now and join our growing community of critical thinkers who appreciate nuanced discussions about the realities behind the badge. Leave a comment with your own thoughts on these incidents—we value your perspective as we work to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

#police #lawenforcement #cops  #bridgethegap #bethechange 

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com 
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “Two Cops One Donut”

🔔 **Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!**  
💬 **Join the conversation in the comments below!**

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit htt

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut

Ever wonder what happens when a pet raccoon steals a meth pipe during a routine traffic stop? Or how officers balance crisis intervention with protecting potential victims? This eye-opening conversation with Ray Beshirs—23-year law enforcement veteran, defensive tactics expert, and founder of Blue Shield Tactical Systems—takes you behind the badge to explore the complex realities facing modern policing.

Ray brings his extensive experience as a former internal affairs supervisor, crimes against children investigator, and martial arts expert to shed light on the critical importance of proper training. We dive deep into the nuances of de-escalation, challenging the common misconception that it's solely about talking someone down. As Ray explains, effective de-escalation often requires appropriate physical intervention to prevent escalation to deadlier force options.

The highlight of our discussion comes through analyzing never-before-seen police body camera footage. From the surreal moment when an officer discovers a raccoon playing with drug paraphernalia to the heart-stopping rescue of a choking child, these real-world scenarios showcase the unpredictable nature of police work. Most poignantly, we examine a domestic disturbance call that reveals how conflicting training protocols—crisis intervention versus standard emergency response—can create impossible situations for officers with tragic outcomes.

Throughout our conversation, we tackle tough questions about police accountability, the legal duty to protect, and the challenge of making split-second decisions with limited information. Ray's insights on training methodologies, including his work with the DOJ COPS grant program, offer a roadmap for how policing might evolve to better serve communities while protecting officers.

Whether you're in law enforcement, interested in criminal justice reform, or simply curious about what officers really face on the job, this episode bridges the gap between police and public understanding. Join us for this frank, informative discussion that goes beyond headlines to explore the human side of the badge.

#police #lawenforcement #cops  #bridgethegap #bethechange 

🔗 Visit us at  TwoCopsOneDonut.com 
📧 Contact us at [email protected] 
🎧 Subscribe to us on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music at “2 Cops 1 Donut”

🔔 **Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on law enforcement and community safety!**  
💬 **Join the conversation in the comments below!**

#TwoCopsOneDonut #PublicSafety #ErikLavigne #firtsresponders 

Our partners: 

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Ghost Patch: tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you and get free shipping on Flex Shield orders! 

Insight LPR license plate recognition technology provides 24/7 real-time insight for homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Protect what matters most! Visit https://insightlpr.com/ 

Retro Rifle: Official Clothing of Two Cops One Donut. Hawaiian Shirts, Guns, and Pop-Culture! head to Retro-Rifle.com tell them we sent ya! 

send us a message! [email protected]

Peregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.

Support the show

Please see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut