Top Cop Leadership

Hello Reader, Succession planning is vital for any organization, but in law enforcement, it holds even greater significance. As leaders retire or move on, the continuity of leadership and the effective transfer of knowledge become critical to maintaining public safety, morale, and operational efficiency. Succession planning ensures that the next generation of leaders is ready to lead their agencies through challenges while upholding the standards and principles of law enforcement. I’ll...

Hello Reader, I hope this message finds you well. I am thrilled to announce the upcoming release of my new book, "Guardians of the Community: Uniting Communities Through Sir Robert Peel's Time Honored Principles," which will be available on August 13, 2024. As a dedicated member of the law enforcement community, you understand the importance of fostering trust and collaboration between officers and the communities we serve. My book revisits the foundational principles established by Sir...

Hello Reader, The role of a police chief is one of immense responsibility, leadership, and influence. For experienced law enforcement professionals seeking to step into or advance within this critical role, finding the right job is more than just a career move—it’s a decision that can impact the community, the police department, and the individual’s professional and personal life. Understanding the Importance of Job Fit The concept of “fit” in a job is crucial for any profession, but it is...

Hello Reader, The search for a new police chief today is not just a routine process but a dynamic and evolving one. Cities are increasingly leveraging online tools to engage their communities and ensure a transparent selection process. Among these tools, online community surveys have emerged as a particularly effective method for gathering input on the qualities and qualifications desired in a new police chief. These surveys, along with community forums where citizens can interact with the...

Hello Reader, Unlike sheriffs, the majority of police chiefs in the United States are appointed by City or County Managers, Mayors, Commission Chairs, or some other official. Typically, in small and large cities, the police chief reports directly to the mayor or other elected official, which can make the police chief's job difficult because of politics. In the cities in between, a professional, such as a City Manager, appoints the police chief. This gives the chief some distance from...

Hello Reader, For most police chief searches, the process is pretty straightforward. If so inclined, the city manager or Mayor just picks the police chief from an internal candidate pool. Usually, though, the job is advertised, and internal and external candidates apply. However, the hiring authority has no choice in some states and cities as the candidate pool is limited to internal candidates only. Image by Micha from Pixabay For example, the City of Akron's recent announcement that it will...

Help Me Select a Cover For My Upcoming Book Recently, I sent an email asking for your vote for the title of my upcoming book, which will discuss how Sir Robert Peel's 9 Principles of Policing are still applicable today. With your vote, the title of my book will be "Guardians of the Community: Uniting Communities Through Sir Robert Peel's Time-Honored Principles." I now need your help selecting the best cover for my book. There are two options. Click on the image of the one you prefer, which...

Hello Reader, In the competitive landscape of law enforcement leadership, aspiring police chiefs need to equip themselves with a resume that highlights their qualifications and sets them apart from other candidates. Crafting a winning resume requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach to showcasing relevant skills and experiences. This article will explore seven essential tips for creating a standout resume tailored specifically for aspiring police chief candidates. Image by...

Hello Reader, I hope this message finds you well. I'm excited to introduce a unique opportunity for your police department that not only serves as a daily reminder but also enhances the professional environment of your agency. Since 1989, the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in Graham v. Connor has set the definitive standard for evaluating police use of force. Known as "The Graham Factors", these essential guidelines are fundamental to every officer's training and decision-making...

Hello Reader, The job of a police chief is more complicated and challenging today than ever. I can speak from experience, as I have served as a police chief for the last 15 years. During that time, the challenges of crime have grown, personnel issues seem to percolate frequently, and public pressure for police reform continues. Most police chiefs expertly navigate these challenges daily. However, even the best police chiefs can make decisions or do things that can prematurely end their career...