Conversations on Public Safety: The Den

For today's conversation, Jessica introduces Dr. Jim Austin, the Director of Strategic Initiatives at JFA Institute, to The Den. Together, they discuss and reflect on his studies with observed and forecasted crime rates. The discussion highlights how policymakers and police leadership can analyze the intersection between criminal justice policies, socioeconomic factors, and long-term trends to und...

For today's conversation, Jessica welcomes Neil Hubbert to The Den, a research associate for IDEA analytics. Together, they discuss the complexities of creating boundaries for police districts or reporting areas through the lens of data analytics. Neil believes that a combination of experience-driven insights from officers and data-driven perspectives from analysts is essential for effective polic...

In the field of law enforcement, the use of intentional language is crucial to convey values, build relationships within communities, and create clear divisions within police departments. In this episode, the panelists engage in a debate about reimagining police departments, focusing on their ideal structures, correct language when naming them, and their hierarchy. The conversation highlights the...

In part II of the previous episode's discussion on policing capacity, today, the panel questions whether the traditional expectations of police officers, including being armed and having the power to detain, are appropriate for all aspects of their work. They explore the idea that sworn officers may not always be necessary to provide protection when responding to traffic accidents, mental health c...

Building on previous episodes that tackled crime, race, and capacity, today, the panel dives deeper into the capacity of leadership within public safety agencies. They explore innovative law enforcement approaches and challenge us to think differently about who and what public safety includes and does.  Throughout their conversation, they emphasize the need for leaders to embrace vulnerabilit...

During their conversations, the panel has questioned their role as consultants and the demands that come with it. They're called in to help agencies think differently and challenge norms, but often, they lack control over the implementation of the recommendations. Today, the panel reflects on the real value they bring to policing and how their analyses can truly make a difference.  Creating a...

In this episode, The Den dives into a discussion about the realities of community policing. Community policing focuses on forming partnerships and implementing problem-solving techniques to address public safety issues. But does this philosophy actually impact the communities themselves and their crime rates?  The panel agrees that community engagement is crucial for building trust and foster...

In this episode, Jessica, Steve, Rodney, and Harold dive into the primary challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in their efforts to reform, connect with their communities, and address crime effectively.  Throughout the conversation, they touch on the superficial nature of some reforms, the impact of organizational bureaucracy, and the difficulties of navigating large, complex agencies...

In this episode, The Den introduces Steve Rickman, an advocate who has dedicated over 40 years of his life to building positive relationships between law enforcement and communities all over the country. Today, Steve shares his journey from his early career in Washington, D.C., to a trusted advisor in community policing practices. His story exemplifies the power of data-driven decision-making and...

In this episode, The Den introduces Rodney Monroe, a former police chief who spent 22 years with the Washington DC Metro Police Department before serving in agencies in Macon, Georgia, Richmond, Virginia, and Charlotte Mecklenburg, North Carolina. Rodney is a dedicated and forward-thinking law enforcement leader known for his reformist approach to policing. He firmly believes in active community e...

Today, The Den introduces retired Chief Harold Medlock who shares his journey from growing up in a Mill Hill community during the 50s and 60s to becoming a seasoned law enforcement officer with a commitment to community trust and accountability. In this episode, Harold opens up about the experiences that ignited his passion for law enforcement. Initially joining the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police De...

In this episode, your host, Dr. Jessica Herbert, the founder and CEO of IDEA Analytics, introduces her background in public safety and shares the foundations that built "The Den" podcast. She opens up about her childhood experiences with police officers, why she has always questioned authority, and how her educational journey led her to see the potential for change in the field.  Dr. Herbert...

Conversations on Public Safety: The Den channels the courageousness of lions to showcase that when experts in criminal justice bravely come together to question every aspect of the system, they have the power to reset and reshape the landscape of public safety.   Whether you're a veteran of criminal justice, a newcomer who wants to foster change for the next generation, or someone active...