Welcome to the December 2014 Buyers Guide issue. We’ve kept up the tradition of listing a number of the companies and services you may be looking for as you consider purchasing products or improving operations. Keep this issue handy and pull it out for quick reference at your desk or in your cruiser, or visit our online product guide any day of the year at www.officer.com/directory.
As another hectic holiday season comes and goes don’t forget to set aside time and sit back, take a deep breath and take care of yourself! A major theme this issue as we finish out the year, is achieving your personal best—whether physically, mentally or emotionally.
We were inspired by Jason Roy, a former Houston police officer, author and founder of the nonprofit organization Zero 2 A Hundred. After suffering a major crash on duty and being told he would never walk again, Roy proved them wrong. He battled for—and won back—his peace of mind and is now dedicating his time and talents to serving children who struggle with brain and spinal cord injuries.
Also in this issue Keith Strandberg explains why it’s important to keep physical fitness standards and practice going even after recruits become full-fledged officers, and recommends comprehensive programs to achieve results in The future of fitness on page 24.
And finally, Carole Moore talks about the problem of domestic abuse behind the badge (page 74) and the harm some supervisors do in minimizing these incidents. She recommends holding this type of violence up to the light, getting help for those who need it and implementing a written policy on domestic abuse within the ranks.
In fact, some organizations are stepping up to promote targeted wellbeing programs for officers. These are the folks who know the physical, emotion or financial struggles that come along with the job. Detroit PD recently launched a program to help officers cope with PTSD. Studies indicate that about 40 percent of officers’ families nationwide experience domestic violence; and among police, there are high rates of suicide. “You don’t have to be a solider to suffer from PTSD,” police spokesman Sgt. Michael Woody told CBS Detroit. “Life as a Detroit cop can be tough.”
The program is being rolled out in stages, and already about 20 officers have been trained to recognize the signs of PTSD. Doctors have been teaching command staff about job stress as well.
The truth is, it is possible to turn things around. And sometimes where the body goes, the mind follows. Jason Roy is quick to credit his strong faith and spiritual health with getting him through the most trying times of his life. In his words—from “Zero to 100”. In the same way I challenge all of you to find your center, and live life to your own “100”.
Sara Scullin
Sara Scullin was the Editor of Law Enforcement Technology magazine, a monthly business-to-business publication that covers technology trends and best practices for public safety managers. LET is part of SouthComm Law Enforcement Media, which also publishes Law Enforcement Product News and Officer.com. Sara had covered the law enforcement industry since March 2008.
