ABSTRACT
The 26 police chiefs interviewed for this book have unique stories to tell. They are a special breed because they have committed themselves to ensuring the safety of their communities while supporting the most important values of the United States Constitution. As this study unfolds, you will have the opportunity to meet people who have faced city councils, mayors, and, of course, some of this country’s most dangerous criminals. Almost all of the chiefs started their careers as line police officers, but some of the most progressive police leaders bring experiences from other areas of community life. The field of police leadership is not a static, career-ending occupation, but may offer new opportunities for leadership in other community roles. One former chief now serves as a minister in a local community near where he served as a police chief. Others have “crossed the aisle” and have served as mayors or performed in other political leadership roles.
