Despite being called the International Association of Chiefs of Police conference, this annual event has something for everyone, from line officers throughout the ranks, as well as civilian and non-sworn agency staff.
After walking thousands of steps through the bustling exhibit hall and packed educational sessions, I’ve gathered the top highlights from this year’s IACP conference.
From immersive VR experiences to next-gen tools for public safety, this A-Z guide captures the innovations, insights and key takeaways that are reshaping law enforcement. Join me as we explore the latest developments impacting agencies and communities nationwide.
A is for Axon of course, whose booth featured giant cargo containers where dozens of attendees donned virtual reality headsets to experience the latest breakthrough technology. In the video below, Craig Trudgeon explains how Axon’s bodycam software enables real-time, two-way language translation, allowing officers to communicate with victims or witnesses in almost any language, saving valuable time at on-scene incidents.
B is for breakthroughs and BVLOS, which stands for “Beyond Visual Line of Sight,” a former constraint requiring a human observer to monitor a drone, including those used by law enforcement. Skydio helped the NYPD overcome this requirement, allowing officers to focus on other priorities at incidents.
C is for crime centers. Vendors like Motorola, Axon, Skydio and Flock Safety showcased how real time crime centers are being used to integrate ALPRs, public and private camera systems, bodycam video, drones, ZeroEyes gun detection software and more to deliver real-time intelligence.
D is for Dedrone, an emerging drone detection technology merging with Axon to show how unauthorized drones or threatening drones can be disabled in flight. Watch below as Mary-Lou Smulders explains how it works and when we might see it deployed.
E is for evidence-based policing. I attended a terrific panel moderated by Maureen McGough of NIJ and the 30x30 Initiative. Las Vegas Public Safety Chief Jason Potts, president of the American Society of Evidence-Based Policing, presented some of his research, along with David Cowan from Australia & New Zealand Society of Evidence-Based Policing. They presented innovative ideas to illustrate problem-solving strategies.
F is for Flying Cross, whose mission is to modernize uniforms to a degree that we have not seen since we got out of that heavy and itchy uniform from days gone by. See my interview with Aaron Silverstein and hear how today’s comfortable uniforms were inspired by Lululemon!
G is for guns. I spoke with Caitlin Wood at the GLOCK booth to learn what features and advancements are capturing the most interest from law enforcement agencies.
H is for health and wellness issues, which were discussed in many sessions at the conference. I caught up with some great folks in Boston, including Ernie Stevens and Lexipol’s Dr. Jaime Brower to chat about officer wellness. Both presented on panels to discuss strategies for officers and their families.
I is for international law enforcement. Officers from around the world journey to the IACP conference to meet their counterparts and see the latest developments in public safety. I had a chance to meet officers from Mexico, Brazil, Ukraine and Indonesia. Dr. Greg Campbell, a recent Policing Matters podcast guest, was showcased in a session called “How International Law Enforcement are Using Emotional Intelligence (EQ) for Recruitment, Hiring, Retention and Mentoring.”
J is for justice. A palpable sense of justice filled the conference, reflecting a renewed recognition of law enforcement and public safety as noble professions nationwide. Every session I attended was packed beyond capacity. The Boston Police presence throughout the venues added to the atmosphere, greeting and welcoming attendees each day with a strong sense of pride.
K is for K-9s. Lots of dogs were milling about at IACP, from bomb detection K-9s to comfort dogs and others. Their presence brought joy to so many at the conference.
L is for Lexipol’s founding father and risk management guru Gordon Graham, who was inspirational as always. Hear his message below.
M is for Massachusetts. Massachusetts proved to be a fantastic host, with Boston shining as a true gem. The Seaport area around the conference offered a perfect spot for a walk or run before or after a full day of sessions. The Boston Police Department and Massachusetts State Police were welcoming and gracious throughout the event.
N is for NAWLEE. The National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE) hosted its annual Leadership Breakfast during the conference. This event provides an opportunity for NAWLEE to thank members, supporters and advocates for women in law enforcement while offering an excellent networking platform.
O is for OverWatch. This technology in wristwatch form from 4Sight Labs allows vital signs monitoring of persons in custody from initial arrest through transport and while in custody at a facility. I met up with old friend, John DeFalco, who explained additional monitoring devices for officers as well. A great idea for single-person patrol who may fall into health distress alone or while engaging with a suspect.
P is for place-based crime strategies. The “Place Network Investigations to Reduce Violent Crime” panel, led by esteemed researcher Dr. Tamara Harold, focused on targeting high-crime and high-service-call areas. Joining her were Denver Chief Ron Thomas, Dallas Deputy Chief Stephen Williams, and researcher Dr. Michael R. Smith, each sharing insights on how place-based strategies can effectively reduce violent crime.
Q is for the quiet places offered throughout the conference hall as a quiet retreat from the bustling exhibit area when needed.
R is for resources, available in abundance at the IACP Hub, as well as at booths from the FBI, NIJ and others, offering free training and materials. Blue360 publications showcased law and policy-related books, including a collaborative work by Dr. Janay Gasparini and myself titled “Recruitment and Retention of Gen Z Law Enforcement Officers.”
The California Peace Officers Research Association was on hand to describe legal services and defense for officers nationwide.
S is for SWAT resources in the exhibition hall including gear, firearms, armored vehicles and air support. Listen to Blake Resnick, inventor of the BRINC Lemur drone, discuss how the company has evolved its drone product offerings.
T is for training, which was in generous supply in Boston. Attendees had the chance to connect with Dan Greene, President of the National Association of Field Training Officers (NAFTO), and Mo Canady, Director of the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO).
U is for use of force sessions covering the science and decision-making involved in use-of-force scenarios. Alongside instruction on defensive tactics and related topics, a range of use-of-force weapon options was on display.
V is for vehicles, which were in abundant supply at IACP. From ATF bomb trucks to armored vehicles, a helicopter and fully equipped patrol cars, the exhibition showcased a diverse array of operational vehicles.
W is for working smarter. The IACP conference highlighted tools and strategies designed to boost on-the-job efficiency, from automated systems to AI-powered insights. These innovations empower officers and agencies to “work smarter,” maximizing their impact while conserving time and resources.
X is for expediting the recruitment process. I took a little creative liberty with this one, but I had a great conversation with South Dakota Special Agent Hank Prim about recruiting the next generation of Gen Z leaders. I also spoke with Jess Guiton from Miller Mendel, who shared strategies for improving recruitment processes and speeding up background investigations.
Y is for why you should attend IACP. Many courses offer continuing professional education credits, and the exhibit hall provides a hands-on experience with products, along with opportunities to discuss new solutions directly with vendors to meet your agency’s needs.
Z is for ZeroEyes, a firearm locator and alert system that integrates with real-time crime centers, potentially saving lives by detecting firearms early. When AI technology detects firearms on video camera feeds, an alert is immediately routed to dispatch for a rapid response.
Conclusion
I’ve attended several IACP events over the years, and this year in Boston truly set a new standard. Each annual gathering offers something unique to see and learn, and this one was no exception. Looking forward to seeing you next year in Denver!
