America's forgotten cops — and the journalist exposing what they're up against

When the headlines fixate on big-city crime and national politics, the daily realities of small and rural law enforcement fade from view. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley talks with award-winning journalist and rural LEO advocate Kathleen Diaz about the communities where officers patrol alone for miles, train less because grants dry up and keep rolling on bald tires because budgets don’t stretch. They discuss the human stakes behind the statistics — from the sheer number of tiny agencies serving towns under 10,000 to the compounding effects of federal funding gaps — and the practical steps chiefs, sheriffs and local leaders can take now to keep their people safe. About our sponsor Equipping Protectors with Passion. That’s how we operate, and it’s how we live. We understand that having the right gear can mean the difference between life and death. Our goal is to get you the gear you need, when you need it, at prices you can afford. This holiday season, listeners receive 10% off now through 12/31 with promo code PR10. Visit OfficerStore.com .