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Season 6 - Episode 133

You may be enlightened as we welcome John Schwartz, a retired FBI agent and the visionary founder of the Center for Combating Elder Financial Abuse, to our latest episode from The CopDoc Podcast. John's journey from West Point to the U.S. Army, where he served in roles ranging from field artillery to ROTC instruction, laid the groundwork for his 24-year career with the FBI. From drug enforcement to counterintelligence and counterterrorism, John's diverse experiences with the Bureau have now converged into his mission to protect vulnerable seniors from financial exploitation.

Our conversation takes a deep dive into the alarming rise of elder financial abuse and the critical role that police agencies can play in addressing this often-overlooked crime. We shed light on the myriad schemes used to target the elderly, including handyman scams, sweetheart cons, and fraudulent sweepstakes. Highlighting notorious cases like Scott Cohen's $300 million Ponzi scheme, we stress the necessity for law enforcement to investigate these broader criminal enterprises, emphasizing financial predators' extensive and sophisticated reach.

The CopDoc Podcast explores the various forms of elder fraud, from impersonation scams to "pension poaching" aimed at elderly veterans. By sharing strategies employed by successful elder abuse units and discussing the importance of continued education and collaboration, we strive to equip our listeners with the tools to fight this pervasive issue. John Schwartz's insights and dedication serve as a powerful call to action for all of us to stay informed and vigilant in protecting our most vulnerable populations.

Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com

Website: www.copdocpodcast.com

If you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!

Season 6 - Episode 132

Ever wondered what it takes to lead a university's public safety department while championing progressive policing practices? Meet Dr. Jennifer Griffin, the dynamic Chief of Temple University's Department of Public Safety and Vice President, who shares her remarkable journey in this can't-miss episode of the CopDoc Podcast. From her beginnings influenced by her father's law enforcement career to her pivotal role at Delaware State Police, Jennifer's story is one of resilience, mentorship, and leadership. She talks about her unique experiences, the importance of equal pay, and the invaluable lessons from her male mentors who played a significant role in shaping her career.

Jennifer also reflects on the unique challenges and triumphs women face in policing. With a background rooted in a military family, she brings a fresh perspective on resilience in law enforcement. The discussion takes a deep dive into the necessity for researchers to be embedded within police agencies to better understand stress, burnout, and resiliency among officers. Jennifer emphasizes how both internal and external research can lead to enhanced law enforcement practices, creating a stronger, more resilient police force.

Transitioning to her current role at Temple University, Jennifer discusses merging higher education with progressive policing. She shares her enthusiasm for evidence-based policing and her collaboration with researcher Jerry Ratcliffe, underscoring the importance of data-driven strategies. Listen to her insights on leadership, community engagement, and the structured approach she's implemented to drive significant changes within a short period. From setting expectations to fostering collaboration and building relationships, Jennifer's leadership lessons offer invaluable takeaways for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of policing.

Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com

Website: www.copdocpodcast.com

If you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!

Season 6 - Episode 131

What if the key to effective policing is not just about enforcing the law but building trust within the community? We have an engaging conversation with Matt Packard, the Colonel of the Colorado State Patrol. With 24 years of service under his belt, Matt's journey offers a profound look into the Patrol's roles in traffic safety, counterterrorism, and beyond. From his initial aspirations to join the FBI to his influential roles within CALEA and the IACP, Matt's experiences provide a rich tapestry of insights into law enforcement leadership and organizational development.

Leadership is often about making tough decisions with limited information. In our discussion, Matt underscores the importance of decisiveness, humility, and the value of feedback in fostering an engaged and innovative workforce. We delve into the New Ideas for Research and Development (NERD) initiative, which empowers staff to contribute directly to leadership, illustrating how involving employees in problem-solving enhances organizational adaptability. The conversation highlights strategies for nurturing future leaders, addressing recruitment challenges, and implementing innovative solutions in hiring practices and academy structures.

Beyond enforcement, policing is about community engagement and trust-building. Matt shares poignant stories of the Colorado State Patrol's efforts to enhance public safety through visibility and approachability. We explore the holistic approach to officer wellness, integrating physical and mental health to foster a supportive organizational environment. By focusing on community needs and building a culture of trust, this episode offers invaluable insights into the broader role of policing and the critical importance of officer well-being. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode that redefines what it means to lead in law enforcement.

Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com

Website: www.copdocpodcast.com

If you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com