Things Police See: Firsthand Accounts

In this intense episode of Things Police See, host Steve Gould sits down with the "Homicide Hunter" himself, Lieutenant Joe Kenda. With a career spanning 23 years at the Colorado Springs Police Department and a staggering 92% solve rate over 387 murder cases, Kenda shares firsthand accounts of the cases that defined his career and the transition from the streets to stardom on Investigation Discovery. Joe dives deep into his early days as a patrolman in the 1970s, recounting his first "hot call" and the chilling reality of investigating nearly 400 murders. We discuss the psychological toll of the job, his take on PTSD, and why he finds storytelling to be his greatest form of therapy. Plus, Joe gives us a preview of his book, Killer Triggers, exploring the "why" behind violent crimes, including a shocking case involving dementia-induced psychosis. Whether you're a fan of Homicide Hunter, American Detective, or a law enforcement professional looking for veteran advice, this interview offers a raw, unfiltered look at the reality of police work and the "greatest show on earth." Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheSergeantSteve

Retired Milwaukee Police Sergeant and bestselling author Patrick O'Donnell returns to Things Police See for a raw, no-filter conversation about his early days on the job. From his very first week—nearly shooting a suspect and witnessing open-heart massage on a dying man—to patrolling districts that mixed million-dollar lakefront mansions with some of the city's most violent neighborhoods, Patrick shares the unvarnished reality of big-city policing during the crack era. The Rookie Years - Patrick's latest book https://a.co/d/02dzfbNZ Reasons We Serve Podcast https://youtube.com/@reasonsweserve?si=799-ZHsMLq4pDoQp Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw

Step inside the extraordinary career of Bob Lessemun, a retired British homicide detective whose work spanned England, the Turks & Caicos Islands, and the United States. In this rare and highly requested interview, Bob shares unbelievable stories from 32 years in policing, including his time with Scotland Yard, his transition to U.S. investigations, and his later work consulting on Guantanamo Bay and terrorism cases. From his early days as a young "Bobby" on the streets of England to becoming one of Virginia's most experienced capital defense investigators, Bob delivers gripping, funny, and jaw‑dropping accounts of real police work. Bob's latest book https://a.co/d/02lg9Me1 Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw

In this episode of Things Police See, host Steve Gould sits down with Chad Jensen, a 25-year veteran of the Pomona Police Department and former SWAT team member. Chad shares harrowing stories from the front lines of Southern California law enforcement, including a high-stakes pursuit involving a Tech 9 submachine gun and a life-altering foot pursuit where a suspect would have killed Chad if his gun hadn't misfired. The conversation takes a deep dive into the most terrifying chapter of Chad's life: being indicted by the FBI following a use-of-force incident at the LA County Fair. Chad pulls back the curtain on the federal justice system, discussing the "Barbie FBI agents," the grueling reality of being chained in federal lockup, and the million-dollar legal battle to clear his name. Discover the truth behind the headlines, the importance of the Legal Defense Fund (LDF), and why Chad authored his new book, Badge Under Fire: A Fight for the Truth. Pre-order Chad's book here: https://a.co/d/0g1b4P5h Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com

Join host Steven Gould for an in-depth interview with St. Johns County Sheriff Robert Hardwick, a 32-year law enforcement veteran, former homicide detective, police chief, and retired National Guard member. Sheriff Hardwick shares powerful stories from his career, including his first homicide call involving a childhood friend, the bizarre 2008 staged murder case of Summer Smith (where investigators wired a coffin for a confession), and the heartbreaking 2021 Tristyn Bailey murder by Aiden Fucci. SJSO Unlocked, a St. Johns County Sheriff's Office podcast https://media.rss.com/sjsounlockedpodcast/feed.xml YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJsWnAMeSsc Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheSergeantSteve

Pinal County Sheriff Ross Teeple joins the show to discuss his bold leadership, the high-stakes Netflix series "Unlocked: A Jail Experiment" Season 2, and life inside Arizona's corrections system. Fresh off taking office, Sheriff Teeple shares how he was "strong-armed" (old friends) by predecessor Sheriff Mark Lamb into filming a groundbreaking re-entry program that unlocked jail cells, shifted to indirect supervision, and empowered inmates to self-govern—aiming to build responsibility, reduce recidivism, and break cycles of crime. Hear raw stories from his career: his first high-speed pursuit gone wrong, a terrifying hand-to-hand fight during an arrest, heartbreaking search-and-rescue recoveries (including a tragic plane crash in the Superstition Mountains), bizarre and intense calls, and a heartwarming success saving a young woman from a predatory relationship. Sheriff Teeple opens up about border security challenges near the Tohono O'odham Nation (where 80% of U.S. fentanyl crosses), cartel threats on American soil, drone smuggling risks, staffing shortages, pay raises for detention officers, and advice for new law enforcement recruits: put down the phone, build real-world communication skills, and seek face-to-face conflict resolution. Unlocked: A Jail Experiment Season 2 now on Netlfix - https://www.netflix.com/title/81476420 Follow Sheriff Teeple on Instagram @teepleforthepeople Pinal County Sheriff's Office on Youtube @PinalCountySheriffsOffice Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw

Join host Steve Gould on Things Police See for an unforgettable interview with Thomas Loughren, a true law enforcement legend with 51 years of service—from rural New York sheriff's deputy to Miccosukee Police in the Florida Everglades, four terms as Chenango County Sheriff, and service on the New York State Commission of Corrections. In this raw, firsthand account, Thomas shares his incredible journey starting as one of the youngest sworn officers in 1972. He opens up about high-speed cadet action, solo patrols in vast rural counties with dead radio spots, intense bar fights, and learning to overcome fear on the job. Bizarre voodoo rituals and black magic in the Everglades (complete with ritual kettles, skulls, and sacrifices) A chaotic midnight restaurant brawl where backup drove right past Wrestling alligators with the Miccosukee tribe A massive motocross riot involving biker gangs, fireworks, and thousands of rowdy campers in the 1970s Diving into a gator-infested canal to rescue drowning suspects Shooting a charging bear to protect an Indian village Building trust with the proud Miccosukee people who never surrendered to the U.S. Cavalry 📖 Grab his book "When Crisis Meets Courage" – https://a.co/d/0hVChhKI Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw

Discover the raw truth about traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD in law enforcement from retired officer Jeff Casselman, who served 27 years in the military and at Lorain Ohio PD. After multiple concussions from cruiser accidents, bar fights, and on-duty violence, Jeff faced memory loss, rage blackouts, seizures, and three failed marriages before a diagnosis changed everything. He shares powerful stories: brutal fights, bizarre calls (like a grim reaper walking a goat), heartwarming redemption with a former addict he helped save, and the "Wild West" days of policing. Jeff founded the Sentinel Neuro Awareness Institute and authored Survival Guide to educate officers, departments, and families on recognizing cumulative brain damage early—before it destroys careers, relationships, or lives. Topics include: firearm concussion risks, hyperactive startle response, adult-onset ADD from head trauma, medications like lamotrigine (Lamictal) for impulse control, and why early awareness matters for cops, veterans, and contact-sport athletes. If you're in law enforcement, a first responder, veteran, or love someone who is—this eye-opening interview reveals the hidden neurological toll of the job and how to fight back. Jeff's Book https://a.co/d/09rr36Ge Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/1FRkgeRM8F/?mibextid=wwXIfr Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheSergeantSteve

What's it really like to work as a Peace Officer in Alberta, Canada? In this episode, Steve sits down with Brad Larsen, a veteran CPO who has served since 2014, to break down the major differences between Canadian policing and U.S. policing — from authority levels to training, to why peace officers aren't armed, and how they work alongside the RCMP. Brad shares unfiltered stories from the road, including bizarre bylaw calls, intense foot chases, dangerous encounters, and the time suspects stole his patrol truck during a fight outside a hockey arena. He also talks about animal enforcement, impaired driving laws, provincial authority, and what it's like policing vast rural areas in Alberta. If you're curious about Canadian law enforcement, the Peace Officer Act, or the realities of rural policing, this episode delivers a rare inside look at a profession most people outside Canada have never heard of. Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve - @TheSergeantSteve https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw

Step inside the world of frontline policing with retired San Antonio Police Officer Ernie Stevens, co‑author, crisis‑response pioneer, and star of HBO's Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops. In this powerful interview, Ernie shares raw, unfiltered stories from 30 years on the job — from adrenaline‑pumping pursuits to heartbreaking death notifications, bizarre calls, and the creation of one of the nation's most respected police mental‑health units. Host Steve Gould of Things Police See dives deep into Ernie's early days as a young officer, his most intense and terrifying moments, and the emotional toll that comes with serving a major city like San Antonio. Ernie also opens up about responding to officers in crisis, the evolution of de‑escalation, and what policing really looks like behind the scenes. If you're interested in law enforcement, mental health, crisis intervention, or real‑world police stories told without filters, this episode delivers. Ernie and Scott's Book https://a.co/d/1ZnX4BO Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve - @TheSergeantSteve https://www.youtube.com/@TheSergeantSteve

Retired Waltham Police Sergeant and NEMLEC SWAT operator Jim Vaglica returns to Things Police See to deliver a full, unfiltered account of his response to the Boston Marathon bombing and the massive manhunt that followed. Jim walks listeners through the moment the bombs detonated, the chaos of deploying into Boston, the tense overnight searches in Watertown, and the dramatic final standoff where the second bomber was captured. His firsthand perspective reveals what really happened behind the scenes — the communication breakdowns, the tactical challenges, the danger of unexploded IEDs, and the sheer exhaustion of operators working more than 24 hours straight. This episode is a rare, detailed look at SWAT operations during one of the most significant domestic terrorism events in U.S. history. If you're interested in law enforcement, tactical operations, crisis response, or the Boston Marathon bombing, this interview is essential listening. Follow Jim on X - https://x.com/JimVaglica Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@TheSergeantSteve

Former FBI agent Barry Black joins Things Police See to share gripping firsthand accounts from his 31‑year career. Barry served as a sniper at Waco, responded to the Oklahoma City bombing, worked the Atlanta Olympic bombing, and deployed to Ground Zero after 9/11. He also trained military and law‑enforcement personnel around the world and recently released his memoir Hazardous Devices. In this interview, Barry breaks down what really happened at Waco, describes the chaos of Oklahoma City, explains the evolution of bomb‑tech work, and shares unbelievable stories from financial‑crime investigations to international terrorism cases. This episode offers rare insight into the realities of federal law enforcement, high‑risk operations, and the human side of policing. If you're interested in FBI operations, SWAT, bomb disposal, true crime, or behind‑the‑scenes law‑enforcement stories, this is an episode you won't forget. Barry's Book - https://a.co/d/dJf7WQJ Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve - Bodycam breakdowns https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw

Dive into gripping real-life stories from the front lines of law enforcement in this powerful episode of Things Police See Podcast with host Steve Gould (Ole Gingerface). Guest Cameron Pavlicek, an active Montana narcotics investigator, Afghanistan war veteran, former president of the Montana Narcotics Officers Association, and founder of Yellowstone Narcotics training company, shares intense, bizarre, and eye-opening experiences. Hear about a chilling first homicide call in freezing Montana conditions, using a baby as collateral in a meth deal gone wild, a 36-hour armed standoff ending in tragedy, creative undercover social media operations catfishing drug dealers online (posing as women to bust perps), bizarre encounters with a schizophrenic man carrying a stolen 100-pound welded California sculpture, and much more. Perfect for fans of true police stories, narcotics investigations, undercover ops, body cam breakdowns, and rural policing in the American West. Don't miss these raw, unfiltered cop tales from the Big Sky State! Yellowstone Narcotics https://yellowstonenarcotics.com/ Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Sergeant Steve - Bodycam Breakdowns https://www.youtube.com/@UCuobtuGxJny9V5lX5a1ieuw

Listen to raw, unfiltered police stories from a 30-year veteran of the Minneapolis Police Department! Retired Lieutenant Scott Zierden shares his firsthand accounts of bizarre calls, intense fights, terrifying moments, and heartwarming rescues during his career in patrol, training, criminal investigations, and internal affairs. Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055

In this gripping episode, retired Waltham, Massachusetts police sergeant Jim Vaglica shares raw, firsthand accounts from his 32-year career. With 16 years on the NEMLEC regional SWAT team, Jim was on the ground during the intense manhunt and capture of Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev in Watertown — including the chaotic boat standoff, massive gunfire, and negotiations. He reveals behind-the-scenes details on the 2013 events (inspired by films like Patriots Day), bizarre scenes (like intact brains ejected from shotgun wounds), heart-pounding SWAT entries against armed barricaded suspects, early adrenaline-fueled calls, and the unsolved Waltham triple murder linked to the older Tsarnaev brother. Jim also discusses recruiting new cops, school resource officers, his time on reality TV shows, and why policing remains an honorable profession. A must-watch for true crime fans, law enforcement stories, and Boston Marathon bombing insights. Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055 Follow Jim on X - https://x.com/JimVaglica

Retired LAPD Lieutenant Rick Deadman joins the show to share over 50 years of intense, bizarre, and sometimes humorous police stories from his career with LAPD, Casper PD, and Natrona County Sheriff's Office. From high-speed pursuits and armed suspects in the 1970s "Jungle" to a tragic training accident that shook Hollywood Division, Rick pulls no punches. He also discusses his current volunteer work with Copline, helping officers and their families through PTSD, trauma, and crisis. Copline www.copline.org Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055

Merry Christmas everyone! In this episode Kerry and I discuss whether or not Die Hard is a Christmas movie. Just wanted to give you guys an episode over the holiday. Police interviews are back next week! God bless and Merry Christmas! Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055

Dive into the 2025 year-end review of the popular law enforcement podcast "Things Police See: Firsthand Accounts" hosted by Steve Gould! In this special episode, Steve is joined by his lovely wife Kerry for a fun, candid conversation covering podcast stats from Spotify Wrapped, growth challenges, top episodes (including the ATF task force standout), listener demographics across 52 countries, and surprising fan favorites in music and books. Get behind-the-scenes insights on balancing police life, family Christmas chaos, the rise of the Sergeant Steve YouTube channel, short-form content struggles, and heartwarming stories from police holiday parties and academies. If you love intense, bizarre, and humorous police stories from active and retired officers, subscribe for weekly episodes! Share with a cop in your life – guest suggestions welcome. Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055

My good friend the great Gill Reyes tells his tales from the California Highway Patrol! Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055

My good friend Ken Roybal, a retired Los Angeles Police Department veteran with an extraordinary 35 years of service to the city of Los Angeles. Ken started his career as an LAPD officer in 1980, he patrolled the streets during some of the most turbulent times in the department's history, then honed his expertise as a background investigator from 1997 to 2001, meticulously vetting the next generation of guardians. After retiring in 2003, he continued his mission in the City of Los Angeles Personnel Department, guiding countless applicants through the rigorous hiring process until his full retirement in 2018. Now, as the founder of Policebackground.net and host of The Police Applicant Podcast—affectionately known on Instagram as The Background Whisperer—Ken empowers aspiring officers with insider strategies to navigate backgrounds, interviews, and beyond. Police Applicant Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/2blCjqkzrztWRsbg1W5yGH?si=2df84ec0e4894714 Contact Steve - steve@thingspolicesee.com Support the TPS show by joining the Patreon community today! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=27353055