iStock.com/mikkelwilliamFew things are as precarious as the work–life balance in our profession. Police work is a demanding job, sometimes to the point of being all-consuming, and can easily bleed over into our home life. But boundaries should be set. Family time should be just that — time with the
iStock.com/gorodenkoffDave, we got in a fight with some guy and they think he’s gonna die. Homicide detectives want to interview me. Do I need an attorney?”I was at home, dialed in at full chill mode, when the phone rang. If stress isn’t the bride of our profession, the two are definitely dating. An
iStock.com/atakanThe issues of ethical expectations and behaviors form the foundation of law enforcement professionalism and deserve strong, visible emphasis throughout every phase of a policing career. The following letter is something I provided to every new officer and his or her partner during m
iStock.com/TeroVesalainenIn today’s digital world, a police department’s website is often the public’s first and most important impression of the agency. Yet many departments have not prioritized their online presence — and that’s a problem.Mark Deitch, publisher of American Police Beat and CEO of 9
Officer Austin Machitar (San Diego Police Department)In a heartfelt tribute to a dedicated public servant, the City of San Diego has unanimously approved the renaming of North Clairemont Community Park to Officer Austin Machitar Memorial Park. This decision by the Parks and Recreation Board serves a
iStock.com/PeopleImagesFor many police officers, the drive to overachieve feels like a badge of honor. The hustle and grind of doing more than the bare minimum is embedded in law enforcement culture — work hard, go above and beyond your peers and prove your worth every day. Excellence isn’t just enc
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund/NLEOMF.orgEvery year during the month of May, tens of thousands of people from across the country and around the world make the pilgrimage to Washington, D.C., to take part in National Police Week ceremonies. These events honor peace officer heroes who
C.O.P.S.My first National Police Week (NPW) was 22 years ago, in 2003, and I was completely unprepared for the impact it would have on my life’s trajectory. I attended as a newly trained peer from my agency, not fully understanding what NPW involved or looked like, and just hoping to support others.
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund/NLEOMF.orgAs we observe National Police Week and National Peace Officers Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the law enforcement officers nationwide who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty in 2024. Their dedication to protecting our communities
Patrick Yoes/National FOPEditor’s note: This article is reprinted with permission from the May 2025 issue of the FOP Journal, the official publication of the National Fraternal Order of Police.If you’ve ever attended Police Week in Washington, D.C., chances are you’ve heard the phrase “It’s all abou