This post contains a link the podcast Chat with the Chief, hosted by Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche. It features an intimate and wide-ranging conversation with Commissioner Bill Bratton, often referred to as the “Godfather” of American law enforcement. With a career spanning over 50 years, Bratton remains the only person to have led the police departments of three large U.S. cities: New York (twice), Los Angeles, and Boston.
Bill and I have many connections back to the 1970s with Gary Hayes, Chuck Wexler and the formation of the “Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), Bob di Grazia and Boston’s School Integration, up to my retirement in 1993.
The interview serves as a masterclass in leadership and the evolution of modern policing. Here are the key highlights to help introduce your blog post:
Leadership Philosophy: “Getting the Right People on the Bus”
Bratton discusses his “lead from the front” style and his belief in inclusive leadership. Drawing from Jim Collin’s management book Good to Great, he emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with smart people and ensuring the right individuals are in the “right seats” to drive the organization forward. He also shares a humble lesson from his early career in Boston, where he learned that “age and treachery” can sometimes outmatch “youth and skill” if a leader isn’t collaborative.
The “Broken Windows” Legacy and Crime Prevention
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Bratton’s storied success in reducing crime. During his first 27 months as NYPD Commissioner, crime plummeted by 39%. He explains the core of “Broken Windows” policing—focusing on quality-of-life issues to prevent more serious crimes—and carefully distinguishes it from the more controversial “Stop, Question, and Frisk” tactics. Bratton maintains that the primary mission of police, as established by Sir Robert Peel, is the prevention of crime and disorder.
The Modern Frontier: Technology and Collaboration
Looking toward the future, Bratton identifies the current era as one of the most challenging in history for law enforcement. He touches on:
- New Threats: The rise of cybercrime, drone-related offenses, and the impact of AI on public safety.
- Community Trust: The ongoing work to improve relations with diverse communities and the lasting impact of the 2020 social justice movements.
- Collaboration: His mantra of “Collaborate or Perish,” stressing that modern police chiefs must work closely with political leaders, the media, and the public to be successful.
Watch the full interview here: Chat with the Chief Podcast: Intimate Conversation with Commissioner Bill Bratton
Improving Police: A Necessary Conversation 