Policing Matters

Drones have rapidly become one of the most transformative tools in public safety, giving agencies faster situational awareness, better documentation capabilities and new ways to respond to incidents. But as adoption grows, so does the complexity of managing the airspace above our communities. The same tools that support law enforcement can also be used for surveillance, disruption or worse. That shift is forcing agencies to rethink how they monitor, interpret and act on drone activity in real time.

In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Melissa Swisher of SkySafe about what it takes to move from simply using drones to truly understanding the airspace. Swisher outlines how drone detection and airspace intelligence platforms help agencies identify authorized versus unauthorized activity, locate operators and integrate aerial data into the broader operational picture. The conversation also explores the growing challenge of securing large-scale events like the FIFA World Cup, where agencies must manage a mix of friendly, commercial and potentially hostile drones without disrupting operations or public confidence.

About our sponsor
SkySafe’s cloud-based drone detection and airspace intelligence platform gives law enforcement real-time visibility into what’s happening in their airspace. The platform turns complex drone data like launch point, flight path, altitude, payload capacity, and operator location into actionable intelligence officers can use to detect, analyze and act on drone activity in real-time. With advanced analytics and industry-leading drone forensics, SkySafe also enables agencies to turn drone data into prosecutable evidence. For more information, visit skysafe.io.

Law enforcement has never had more information at its fingertips. From BOLOs and fusion center updates to emails, radio traffic and crime bulletins, today’s officers operate in a constant stream of inputs. But volume doesn’t equal value. The central challenge is no longer access — it’s relevance. As agencies grapple with staffing shortages and rising demands, the question becomes urgent: How do you ensure critical intelligence reaches the right person in time to act?

In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Matt White, CEO and co-founder of Multitude Insights, about why modern policing doesn’t need more data — it needs better intelligence flow. Drawing on his background in military intelligence, White explains how agencies can move beyond overloaded inboxes and disconnected bulletins by adopting systems that prioritize and personalize information delivery.

He discusses how platforms like Multitude Insights’ BLTN surface relevant intelligence based on an officer’s role, location and emerging crime patterns, while also identifying connections across jurisdictions that might otherwise go unnoticed.

About our sponsor
This episode is sponsored by BLTN, Powered by Multitude Insights. Better bulletins solve crimes. BLTN is the nationwide intelligence-sharing platform built by law enforcement, for law enforcement. One centralized system to create, distribute, and analyze bulletins—connecting agencies in real time so critical intel reaches the right people when it matters most. No more inbox sprawl, no more missed leads—just faster coordination and better outcomes. Visit multitudeinsights.com to see how agencies are closing more cases, faster.

Policing Matters podcast host and deputy chief Jim Dudley (ret.) paid a visit to Axon Week 2026 to get an exclusive look at some of the revolutionary advancements in public safety technology and the thought leaders and technology experts making them happen.

In this special episode, sponsored by Axon, Dudley sits down with Jeff Kunins, chief product officer and chief technology officer of Axon. Their discussion examines how Axon is integrating AI and connected technologies to streamline routine police work, improve real-time awareness and enhance officer safety, while emphasizing interoperability and human oversight to ensure responsible use.

About our sponsor

This episode of Policing Matters is sponsored by Axon – the global leader in public safety technology. Discover how Axon is empowering first responders with innovative tools and training to build safer communities and protect more lives in more places at axon.com.

Patrol work starts long before the call. From the moment an officer begins their shift, every decision — what to prioritize, how to respond and when to slow down — can impact outcomes for officers and the public alike. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Sergeant John Banner of the White Settlement (Texas) Police Department to break down the critical thinking that happens behind the wheel.

From managing competing demands like ALPR hits and priority calls to navigating fatigue, technology and pursuit decisions, this episode explores how officers maintain situational awareness and make sound judgments under pressure.

Sgt. Banner shares practical insights on preparing mentally for shift, using technology effectively and coaching the next generation of officers — all while balancing the realities of modern policing.

About our guest

Sgt. John C. Banner is from Mineral Wells, Texas, and holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Tarleton State University. He joined the White Settlement (Texas) Police Department in 2012 and has served in a variety of roles throughout his career, including detective, corporal, POA president and vice president, and SWAT operator. He currently serves as a night patrol sergeant and has also completed a rotation in the department’s Street Crimes Division.

Banner is a graduate of the ILEA 146th School of Police Supervision and has been recognized for his service with the Medal of Valor and two lifesaving awards. In 2024, he was also featured on “America’s Most Wanted with John Walsh” (Season 2, Episode 4).

About our sponsor
This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

Police training is designed to push limits — physically, mentally and emotionally. But when the culture of grit outpaces medical awareness and safeguards, the consequences can be irreversible. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley and fitness expert Traci Tauferner examine the risks embedded in high-intensity academy training, the gaps in concussion recognition and the responsibility leaders carry to protect recruits without compromising readiness.

From hydration and baseline testing to psychological support and instructor training, the episode delivers a practical look at how academies can better identify risk and intervene before a routine drill becomes a tragedy.

About our guest

Traci Tauferner is an athletic trainer and strength and conditioning specialist with extensive experience supporting law enforcement, military and public safety personnel. As the director of industrial and tactical medicine at Advanced Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, she works with agencies and municipalities to design and implement programs focused on injury prevention, performance optimization and recovery. Her approach blends clinical expertise with real-world operational demands, helping departments build healthier, more resilient workforces.

Connect with her:

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About our sponsor
This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.