Patrol Issues
The Patrol Issues topic page offers news, commentary, analysis, and tactical tips that will help prepare police officers for life on the thin blue line.
A driver’s attitude and history can influence the decision to issue a traffic ticket as much as traffic conditions and the infraction itself
Never underestimate the value of officer presence on ensuring your time in court is successful
From crisis calls to tactical decision-making, discover how to apply de-escalation effectively while balancing officer safety, public trust and evolving policies
In Martinez v. City of Rosenberg, the court upheld officers’ actions after they arrested a man for walking on the wrong side of the road
In U.S. v. Turner, the court examines how the search incident to arrest doctrine and automobile exception justify vehicle searches
Take a look at a comprehensive list of the APCO police 10 codes and their meanings
Not getting adequate, quality rest can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health
No scripts. No second takes. Just real cops doing the job. Show analyst Captain Tom Rizzo on the success of this reality TV show
Since 2022, the reality TV docuseries has provided an unfiltered look at law enforcement in action, offering transparency, boosting community trust and even helping agencies attract recruits
How safe would you feel knowing your backup officer hasn’t had a restful night’s sleep in weeks and is struggling to stay awake?
Meet three black belt officers using martial arts to transform police training — locally, virtually and internationally
It can have a range of negative effects on both physical and mental health
With the right tactics, training and awareness, officers can improve their chances of detecting danger before it strikes
The 8th Circuit ruled in U.S. v. Hamber that an officer lawfully extended a stop to frisk a sleeping driver in a high-crime area
Here’s what to say instead for clearer, more effective reports
Don’t let simple mistakes tarnish your credibility
Officers face split-second decisions, but politics and misinformation are shaping the rules they must follow — often with dangerous consequences
Week-by-week tallies show the officer also put in for OT on days he called out “sick in family” and “sick with pay”
Remember to follow three simple principles: preparation, organization and clarity
How agencies can move beyond tech hype, integrate smarter systems and give officers real-time intel when they need it most
A survey of 200 officers reveals critical gaps in interview and interrogation training, exposing struggles with question formulation, rapport-building and overcoming resistance
Common errors that will get your report rejected by your supervisor or the courts
In many cases, victims of domestic violence stay because they sense the ever-present specter of their death
By empowering officers at every level, Hermosa Beach PD turned its staffing crisis into a leadership success story — proving that recruitment and retention aren’t about incentives, but about culture
Here are some pointers to help every new cop on their way to a successful law enforcement career
Follow this comprehensive guide to being an effective courtroom witness
First on the list: “You need to find some real criminals!”
In Stapleton v. Lozano, the 5th Circuit ruled officers were not deliberately indifferent after a drug user died in custody
Experience builds instincts, education sharpens strategy — both shape great cops. How can agencies balance real-world grit with academic insight to recruit and train the best officers?
